I tried everything - counting sheep, drinking copious amounts of wine at dinner, avoiding caffeine five hours before bedtime - but nothing worked. Despite all of my efforts, I couldn't sleep. Don't get me wrong: I'm not an insomniac. I just had to share a room with a heavy snorer during a work conference. At first, I tried to fall asleep before her. But after waking up two consecutive nights from violent snoring, I decided that I needed to find another tactic - or risk working long hours on no sleep.
In today's economic downturn, organizations are attempting to slash expenses any way possible. Because of this, some companies are forgoing travel altogether, opting instead to conduct business via webinars and virtual tradeshows. However, for the percentage of companies that still permit travel, employees are often asked to share rooms with their coworkers. Although some people may feel uncomfortable with this arrangement, sharing rooms doesn't have to be a nightmare. Below are key ways to reduce any possible embarrassment associated with room-sharing and ensure a good night's sleep is had by all.
Change in the Bathroom: Seeing coworkers in a less-than-dressed state can be mortifying. After all, do you really want your coworker to know that you have a Celtic sun tattooed on your lower back? Remember, come Monday morning, you have to see this person in an office environment. Always err on the side of modesty when traveling for business. You want to be taken seriously and viewed as a consummate professional, so don't let your coworkers see you in your skivvies.
Have an Emergency Sleep Kit Available: Preparation is key. If you happen to discover that your temporary roommate is a heavy snorer, you'll be glad that you took these precautions. Below are the five most important elements of the sleep kit:
Maintain Boundaries: The fact that your coworker leaves her shampoo in the shower doesn't mean you have free reign to use it. Be respectful of your roommate's possessions, and don't use any of her belongings without first asking permission. Also, some bedtime rituals should only be done in the comfort of your home, including teeth bleaching and hair dying.
Lastly, common sense should always prevail when room-sharing. Always be courteous, and respect your roommate's bedtime even if it's before yours. However, if you choose to stay out later than your coworker, be as quiet as possible when returning to the room. Remember, room-sharing doesn't have to be a negative experience - it can actually forge deep relationships between coworkers. And, hopefully, by following these tips, your bunk buddy will be an even better work buddy in the morning.
Talk about it
No comments:
Post a Comment