Want to Attend the Conference, but Money is an Issue?

Perhaps your employer would finance the trip

Your employer might be willing to pay all or part of your trip to attend the Annual International Women in Aviation, International Conference. There are good and valid reasons for doing so: networking and professional development to name two.

Of course, not all employers are willing to do this, but if you think your employer would be open to consider the idea, how you approach the request will play a huge part toward a positive outcome. If you approach your boss or supervisor meekly asking, "Do you think you could pay my way to the Women in Aviation Conference?" it's way too easy to say "No."

Besides, what's in it for your employer? You have to make a case for how your attending the 2012 WAI Conference will benefit both you and your employer.

The attached sample letter may be useful in making your request. One size never fits all, so download this letter [MS Word doc file] as a template to craft your own proposal that you will make in person to your boss or supervisor. Note that the amount of money necessary is part of the request. You will need to research the costs.

Here are some pointers:

• Focus on what you will specifically bring back as a return on your employer's investment in you.
• Offer to make a presentation to your co-workers upon your return from the Conference.
• Explain how attending this Conference benefits you, your department, and your organization.
• Demonstrate how you're economizing with the expenses (carpooling, sharing a room, early bird registration, etc.)

Good luck! You have nothing to lose, and making a presentation will be good practice for you. Be a gracious winner. Be a gracious loser. Remember: It doesn't hurt to ask.