Thanks to a boom in oil, Calgary has recently, and rapidly, become an important business hub for Canada. The city has seen some major expansion over the past few years, but while the population boom has turned it into one of Canada’s largest cities, Calgary still retains its Western charm.

As a result of this buzz, more and more people are heading out West to do business. If you’re getting ready to travel to Calgary for business, Corporate Stays has some quick tips on how to make the most of your trip.

1. Dress Accordingly

It’s a well-known fact that first impressions count. And in Calgary, like any other city, the first they will notice is how you look, and what you are wearing. What makes Calgary stand out from other cities, is what the expected dress code of your meeting is.

The people of Calgary can dress very differently. There are the more traditional, formal, business-types: for these, a suit and tie are a must. There are more laid-back companies, especially start-ups, or smaller businesses. Calgary may have become a bigger city since the oil boom, but for many Calgarians, it has the soul of a small town. For these meetings, something more along the lines of business casual would be perfect, like a good pair of jeans and a smart shirt.

No matter who you are meeting, two basic rules should be adhered to. This is not the city to be trying your more high-fashion looks; save that for Montreal. And please, please, leave the cowboy hats to the locals.

2. Find Your Perfect Meeting Space

It isn’t just how you look that is going to make a first impression; it is also where you plan on meeting. If your potential client or business partner has invited you to their office, by all means, that should be your first choice.

However, if you are to be organizing the meeting, you will be tasked with finding an appropriate venue. Fortunately, Calgary has many options. If you book with a serviced apartment, you will have the option of using the building’s conference room or resto-bar. There are also services like Da Vinci, which offers rentable meeting rooms for you to host your presentation in.

3. Enjoy Calgary’s Fine Dining

Who doesn’t enjoy grabbing a bite to eat? Sometimes, the offer of a free meal is the difference between an accepted or a declined meeting invitation. However, if you are completely new to Calgary, picking a spot to grab a bite can be rather intimidating. However, there are a couple of ways to “cheat” and impress your guest.

Vintage Chophouse is an excellent place to host a business meeting. Why? They offer several round tables, including a private room with a round table. This makes discussions easier and less stand-offish. And the added benefit of a private room will allow you to go into detail without worrying about sensitive information being overheard in a crowded restaurant.

For a more casual setting, the Gravity Espresso and Wine Bar is the perfect stop. During the daytime, you can settle in for some of Calgary’s best coffee, and a reasonably-priced sandwich. If you plan on meeting later in the day, you just might be able to take advantage of their happy hour, and nice selection of wines and beers.

4. Think Outside the Meeting Room

We have previously mentioned the benefits of the “Walk and Talk” meeting. And in a place like Calgary, with a very active population, this will certainly be a popular option for whoever you wish to meet. Just be sure to double-check the weather before you head out, as Calgary’s weather is notorious for changing on a dime.

There are plenty of scenic views of Calgary, like a casual stroll along the Bow River. And for those who aren’t concerned about heights, Sky360, the revolving restaurant at the top of Calgary Tower offers some lovely views of the city while enjoying a delightful meal.

5. Book the Right Accommodations

Preparing for a big meeting can be stressful. It can be even more stressful when you’re on the road and in a new city. Make sure that you do everything you can to set yourself up for success in your next business meeting in Calgary. Find yourself accommodations that suit your lifestyle and your needs.

You don’t have to worry about messing with your diet or your exercise routine when you book the right place. Find a serviced apartment with a full kitchen and a fitness centre. You’ll be able to cook yourself something healthy while on the road, and be able to maintain your fitness routine.

Furthermore, booking yourself close to the action of downtown Calgary will mean that you don’t have to worry about sleeping next to a noisy airport. You’ll also be able to quickly, and easily, get to all of your important meetings in Calgary.

Whether you were already planning on travelling to Calgary for an important business meeting, or if it was a distant plan, there is no time like the present to start preparing. And if you are looking for somewhere to stay on your next business trip, the Corporate Housing Specialists at Corporate Stays would be thrilled to help you.