How to Persuade Your Boss

Need help convincing leadership to support your travel to Convening Leaders 2026 in Philadelphia? We’ve compiled key talking points to help you secure professional and financial support from your organization.

If email works best, use our prepared template highlighting the benefits of attending CL26 along with an outline of estimated expenses. You can also adapt these talking points for a direct conversation with your supervisor.

We look forward to making history with you in Philadelphia this January!


Email Template and Talking Points:

Subject: Request for Approval to Attend PCMA Convening Leaders 2026

Dear [Boss’s Name],

I’m writing to request approval to attend PCMA’s Convening Leaders 2026, taking place from January 11–14 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This event is an unparalleled opportunity to represent [YOUR WORKPLACE] among more than 5,000 business event professionals from around the world.

Convening Leaders is strategically designed for key decision-makers, industry leaders, and elite suppliers. This year’s theme, “Making History, Together,” reflects three guiding pillars that align directly with our organizational goals:

  • Legacy – honoring the history and insights that serve as a foundation for future innovation.
  • Momentum – driving transformation through bold ideas, strategic action, and new approaches to business events.
  • Unity – harnessing the collective power of diverse perspectives to shape what’s next.

Attending this conference will allow me to:

  • Gain cutting-edge industry knowledge: I’ll participate in sessions that address the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities, which I can bring back to our team.
  • Forge strategic connections: I’ll build relationships with industry leaders and potential partners, benefiting [workplace] both immediately and in the long term.
  • Enhance our competitive edge: The insights and strategies I gain will directly contribute to our ongoing initiatives and help us stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.
  • Share knowledge with our team: Upon my return, I will organize a debriefing session to share key takeaways, best practices, and actionable ideas with the team so the entire organization benefits.

The total estimated investment for my participation is $[XXX], with a detailed cost breakdown as follows:

  • Registration: $
  • Transportation: $
  • Hotel: $
  • Meals and incidentals: $

It’s important to note that the current registration rate expires on [date], offering a cost-saving opportunity if we act promptly.

I’m eager to discuss this further and address any questions you might have. I am confident that the knowledge, skills, and connections I gain from Convening Leaders—rooted in legacy, fueled by momentum, and strengthened by unity—will provide significant value to our organization.

Thank you for considering this request.

Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Position]

  • It’s everything you need in three days to build your career.

    Anissa Ladd, CASE Director of National Accounts, Go Providence
  • I’ve been coming to Convening Leaders for the past 10 years. I just think the education, the latest technology — anything you’re looking for to plan your meeting — it’s at Convening Leaders.

    Deborah Young CMP, CEM Director of Convention & Meetings, National Association of Elementary School Principals
  • It’s a great refreshment of re-connecting and networking with people, and then on top of it, you get this great education and inspiring speakers. For me, it’s the best way to start off your year. If you’re not attending PCMA Convening Leaders, you really should.

    Meg Harper National Group Sales Director, Davenport Hotels
  • It is the best conference I’ve ever attended. Ever. And, as a seasoned professional, I get so much out of it. I can’t tell you how many pictures I’ve taken on my phone of new ideas I’m looking forward to taking back to my corporation.

    Patty Amos, CMP Owner, Soma Event Design Services
  • Everyone’s here. It’s a great opportunity for you to reconnect, reinvigorate yourself and be able to start fresh in the new year.

    Will Trokey National Accounts Director for Visit Greater Palm Springs
  • I'm looking forward to connecting with other event professionals and learning new strategies to create the best conference possible.

    Jill-Cavanaugh-Testimonial
    Jill Cavanaugh Conference Coordinator, Infusion Nurses Society