CONVINCE YOUR BOSS

Attending a conference can be a valuable investment in your professional development, but the cost of registration, travel, and accommodations can add up quickly. That's why we've put together some key points to help you make the case to your employer that attending Creative Works WEST is a smart investment in your growth as a creative professional. Use the following points to craft a compelling pitch that highlights the benefits of attending.

  • You’ll gain new skills from industry experts.

    Creative Works invites top talent to teach hands-on workshops in relevant skills like logo design and storytelling. You'll have the opportunity to select two 3-hour workshops to make the most of your time at the conference.

  • You’ll renew your energy and passion for your work.

    At the core of the conference, world-class creatives give presentations about their processes, work, successes, and failures. This inspiring environment will give you a boost of confidence and energy to bring back to your work.

  • You’ll learn new trends, ideas, techniques, and best practices.

    You'll discover new tools, workflows, and processes that you can apply to your work, while also seeing how other designers and creatives approach projects and solve problems.

  • You’ll expand your network and connect with a larger creative community.

    You'll have the opportunity to meet and network with fellow creatives from around the country, gaining new perspectives and encouragement to push your skills and work further.

ADDITIONAL POINTS TO CONSIDER

  • Highlight the cost-effectiveness.

    Attending a conference can be a cost-effective way to learn new skills and gain valuable insights, often for a lower cost than attending multiple workshops or classes separately.

  • Emphasize the ROI.

    Provide concrete examples of how attending the conference can provide a positive return on investment, such as bringing back new skills or ideas, making valuable contacts, or feeling more motivated and engaged in your job.

  • Explain how attending the conference aligns with the company's goals.

    Tie the conference topics and goals to your company's mission, values, or objectives to make your case more compelling.

  • Offer to share what you've learned.

    Assure your boss that you will share what you learn with the rest of the team or even do a presentation on your key takeaways from the conference.

  • Point out the opportunity for team building.

    Attending a conference with colleagues can be a great opportunity for team building and bonding, which can strengthen your team's relationships and collaboration.

  • Highlight the convenience of the conference location.

    If you're a Seattlite, remind your employer that they don't have to pay for travel or accommodations, which can often be the most expensive part of going to a conference.

SAMPLE EMAIL

Subject: Request for Approval to Attend Creative Works WEST

Dear [Manager's Name],

I’m writing to request approval to attend Creative Works WEST in Seattle, WA, on May 1-3, 2025. This conference offers an unparalleled opportunity to develop my skills, gain fresh perspectives, and connect with a broader creative community—all of which will directly benefit my work and contribute to [Company/Agency Name]’s success.

Here’s how attending Creative Works WEST can provide value to [Company/Agency Name]:

  • Gain New Skills: The event features hands-on workshops led by industry leaders, covering practical, cutting-edge skills such as [skill one] and [skill two]. I’ll attend two focused, 3-hour workshops designed to maximize learning.

  • Boost Creativity and Productivity: World-class creatives will deliver insightful presentations about their processes, successes, and lessons learned. These talks are designed to inspire renewed energy, confidence, and fresh approaches to tackling challenges.

  • Learn New Trends and Techniques: I’ll bring back actionable insights on emerging trends, workflows, and best practices that can enhance our processes and elevate the quality of our work.

  • Expand Industry Connections: Building relationships with peers and leaders in the creative community will broaden my perspective and provide valuable networking opportunities to exchange ideas and collaborate.

The early-bird registration cost is $399 (a $150 discount) if we register before January 1, 2025. Additionally, there’s a group hotel rate available at $149 per night.

Thank you for considering this request. I’m happy to provide more details about the event or discuss how it aligns with [Company/Agency Name]’s goals.

Best regards,
[Your Name]