Advice for Apprehensive Business Travelers and Their Employers

Many firms began re-evaluating their travel policies even before the tragic events of September 11th, albeit from a financial perspective. The economic slump had forced expense cuts, and significant cost savings could be realized by employing "virtual" technologies in lieu of face-to-face meetings.

What was purely a fiscal concern back then, however, is now a very emotional one.

Luann Linquist, PhD - who specializes in brief therapies for anxiety, depression, phobias, and post-traumatic stress - offers helpful tips for dealing with our fears in the aftermath of the attacks:

• First, it is important that we develop a new awareness, one in which we expect increased uneasiness. We must pay close attention to these feelings to ensure that low-level nervousness does not develop into full-blown anxiety or - worse yet - escalate into phobia. In either case, the anticipation of an upcoming flight can wreak havoc on concentration, productivity, and relationships in the days, weeks, even months leading up to the trip.



• Besides taking comfort in the fact that airline security is tighter than ever, travelers must plan accordingly. They should arrive at the airport extra-early to accommodate rigorous check-in procedures, and mentally prepare for the hassles that they will inevitably encounter. Allowing themselves to feel rushed and frustrated adds to their tension level needlessly.



• Fretting about the financial security of loved ones is another major stressor. These worries can be reduced by taking protective measures such as writing out a will, purchasing a life insurance policy, etc.

Dr. Linquist refers to the above strategies as "Smart Anxiety" because acknowledging and managing our fears helps keep our thoughts on a rational level. And while these activities are personal in nature, employers can certainly lend a hand.

Encouraging your staff to share their feelings is one of the best ways to show your support. This can be as informal as cutting your employees some slack as they talk excessively amongst themselves, or actively scheduling time for open discussion. You may also opt for a more formal approach, such as conducting professionally-facilitated meetings or offering confidential counseling.

Your employees will appreciate whatever level of assistance you provide, and - considering the harm that anxiety can cause to workplace morale and performance - can you afford not to help them cope?

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