Participate in the AIME Accelerate Program. How to Pitch to your boss to attend AIME: A Step-by-Step Guide

With AIME 2024 just around the corner, there’s a buzz in the industry about an exciting new initiative: the Accelerate Program. If you have less than five years experience in the events sector and are brimming with ambition and potential, this is your opportunity to supercharge your career, participate in the Accelerate Program and become an AIME Rocket.

Now, you might be wondering, how do I convince my manager that I’m the perfect fit for this new program? Fear not, we’re here to guide you on crafting the perfect pitch:

1. Understand the Accelerate Program and what it means to be an AIME Rocket

Before you can sell the idea to your boss, you need to understand the value yourself. Participating in the Accelerate Program provides the following benefits:

• Networking Opportunities: the program is designed to introduce you to major venues, destinations and suppliers, and the connections you make will be invaluable for your future projects
• Professional Development: get access to the AIME Knowledge Program and Ideas Academy, a treasure trove of information, ideas and skills development opportunities
• Exclusive Experiences: from Melbourne Convention Bureau’s Uncover Melbourne Program to the AIME Welcome Party, you’ll be privy to unique event experiences that can offer deeper insights into the industry and meet likeminded peers

2. Know Your Value

Acknowledge what you bring to the table. Maybe you’ve spearheaded a small event that garnered positive feedback, or perhaps you’ve demonstrated skills in vendor coordination or attendee management. Highlight these successes as indicators of your readiness to step up.

3. Prepare Your Pitch

Draft a clear and concise proposal outlining:

• Why you want to participate: talk about how the Accelerate Program aligns with your career goals
• Benefits for your company: emphasise how the connections and knowledge you gain will directly benefit future projects
• Your commitment: reassure your manager that you’ll share what you learn, perhaps through a presentation or a written report

4. Showcase the Financial Incentives

For interstate ‘Rockets’, there’s a possibility of qualifying for flight and accommodation sponsorship funding. Even if this doesn’t apply to you, emphasise the value proposition to your manager. With the rich learning and networking experiences on offer, the ROI can be substantial… and your company may just pay for you to attend AIME anyway.

5. Ask for Feedback

After presenting your pitch, open the floor for feedback. This shows maturity and a willingness to adapt. Perhaps your manager has some conditions or suggestions; be ready to take them on board.

6. Follow Up

If your manager needs time to think it over, set a reminder to revisit the conversation.

7. Stay Positive

Whatever the outcome, remember this is a valuable exercise in advocacy and self-promotion. If this year isn’t the year, you’ve planted the seed for future opportunities.

The AIME 2024 Accelerate Program is an unparalleled opportunity for those new to the events industry, promising exposure, learning, and growth. By tailoring your pitch, showcasing the benefits, and communicating your passion, you’ll be in a prime position to take your career to new heights.

Blast off towards success and let AIME be your launchpad! 🚀

Don’t forget, you’ll get an all-access pass to AIME:

• The option to join MCB’s Uncover Melbourne Experiences, a deep dive into the city’s gems
• Entry to the Knowledge Program and the groundbreaking Ideas Academy
• Immerse in the Welcome Party and enjoy access to the Accor Hosted Buyers Lounge