Bringing Your Kids on a Business Trip
In recent years the road warrior has become something of a romantic figure in American business. The common image is that of a hard-driving young executive working virtually around the clock — with the help of an arsenal of wireless devices — from anywhere in the world. And while that life may have its undeniable rewards, it also exacts a heavy toll on families.
Though it's not yet widely accepted in the corporate world, a number of people address the problem by bringing children on business trips — combining business with pleasure.
A Growing Trend
How popular is combining family fun in the sun (or snow) with the hum of laptops and the relentless monotony of PowerPoint presentations? The numbers speak for themselves.<>
More than 32 million business trips in 1998 included children. According to the Travel Industry Association of America (TIA), that’s a whopping 33 percent increase over the preceding year. In fact, those 32 million child-accompanied business trips represented 16 percent of all business trips in 1998.
The reasons behind the numbers aren’t hard to imagine. With parents working longer hours, today's typical family is stretched and stressed. So there's a growing resolve not to let work undermine the family. And whether it’s the tight labor market or a relaxed corporate culture, working parents are finding ways to bring their kids on business trips. It’s a cost effective way for parents to fulfill both work and family needs.
Ask These Questions First
First find out how your company and colleagues feel about you bringing your children on the trip. In today’s informal business climate, you may find there's a greater acceptance.
Before you approach your boss, ask yourself some questions:
- Is the trip predictable enough to bring my kids?
- How will my colleagues react if my family comes along — and do I care?
- Will I be in an environment where children are welcome?
- Can I realistically budget my work so there’s time left for the family?
What to Think About and What to Do
Assuming you’ve answered yes to the questions above, there are a few things to consider before you pack the kids' suitcases.
Involve your kids. Experts advise that you should explain to your kids where you’re going and what it will be like. Show them photos and point out the destination on a map. If there’s child care involved, explain they’ll be with a new caregiver and discuss their concerns. Remember to let the kids play an active role in the planning so that they feel invested in the trip.
Stay at a child-friendly hotel. The hotel you choose will be the single most important decision you make when planning the trip. Most North American hotels will help you prearrange child-care services using a local nanny service. Call ahead and find out if the hotel can help.
Check out the child-care services. You’ll want to research the child-care agency and meet the proposed care provider for an interview. Be clear on your standards and your attitude towards discipline. And make sure they know how to reach you.
A number of resorts in the United States, the Caribbean and abroad offer excellent programs for children. The Fun Factory runs exemplary programs around the world. And both the Hilton and Hyatt hotel chains have systemwide programs for families and kids.
Taking your kids on business trips can be challenging, but it can also reduce the stress and frustration of choosing between work and family. With a little planning and some patience, it can mean more quality time with your family. And it’s probably fair to say that most road warriors would trade a long distance phone call for a hug and a kiss goodnight any day of the week.
