Getting buy-in for attending JAILCON19 may be challenging…so we hope we can help make it a little easier with these tools.

Step 1: Know the Costs (i.e. “the investment”)
Presenting the full cost of your attendance requires looking at more than just the cost of registration. Use this handy worksheet to approximate the total financial investment required for you to attend JAILCON19 in Scottsdale.

Step 2: Prove the Return on Investment (ROI)
Proving the value of your attendance may sound difficult,  but if you know the outcome of your the training you’ll receive, drawing an objective is relatively simple.  Ask yourself, what is my main purpose for attending?  For example, is it to meet other corrections professionals facing the same issues your agency is facing? Or is it to obtain the need continuing education credits you need for 2019 or for your professional certification?  The key is to focus on how your attendance can benefit your agency.

Customize this worksheet to outline the sessions you will attend, and detail how these sessions will help solve any challenges you and your department or organization are looking to solve. Additionally, list the exhibitors you plan to visit; if you’re currently reviewing vendors, this is the perfect opportunity to set up demos and see the products and services up close.

Step 3: Make Your Case to Attend
This step is all about the art of persuasion. Whether it’s through an informal ask or by submitting a more formal request, you’ll want to employ convincing communication techniques such as utilizing credibility, knowing your audience, starting with a strong opening, and holding your audience’s attention. Download this letter template as a starting point for making your case to attend.