“an investment in knowledge always pay the best interest.”
-- Bengamin Franklin
While these wise words are always spoken, sometimes it is not enough when trying to convince management of the necessity to attended an IT conference. Many times you need to make a stronger case in writing.
Here’s what you need to do. First, answer the questions below, then prepare an estimate of the costs (airfare, hotel, meals, transportation, etc), and then plan back-up for you work while you’re away. Now, write down and present it to your employee, in person if possible. Prove why your attendance is a true investment that will benefit them just as much as it will benefit you!
Questions:
- How are the most important issues or plans facing your organization right now?
- What role do you plan in dealing with these issues or reaching the plan goals?
- What sessions or opportunities at the conference relate to and support your role/contribution?
Ask for approval to attend early! Last-minute requests are never the best way to go and early registration saves you money. Then, follow up with your employer if you don’t get an answer right away. As busy as every organization is, it’s easy for things to fall through the cracks.
Beware “Innovation”
As marketers, we love to innovate! However we advise caution if planning on using “We need to innovate” as a justification in this current economic climate. This year’s research has shown that most organizations are in “Recover and Refocus” mode and we have developed the program accordingly. The term “innovation” may create the impression that you will return from the conference with risky, costly or disruptive ideas that have little immediate benefit to your organization.