You want to attend FRI but in these economic times, you’re not sure how to approach your city manager. The best way to improve your chances is to be armed with the facts.

Discuss with your boss the brochure
Go through the FRI brochure, pointing out the relevant leadership trainig sessions, including workshops and seminars that provide the knowledge and skills necessary for getting your department through these tough economic times.

Also mention that in addition to classroom training, FRI allows you to connect with the leading fire service industry experts and with fellow chiefs and chief officers from around the world to share ideas and best practices. Also point out that FRI you get:

• Five full days of in-depth seminars and workshops
• Two general sessions
• Two-days in the exhibit hall, with 600+ exhibitors featuring the latest products and services;
• Technology showcase, featuring innovations that save money and lives

Commit to sharing what you learn with others
Tell your city manager you will take notes capturing important ideas and best practices and will share those notes and hand-out materials with your colleagues. Also be willing to present your findings to others in your department.

Demonstrate return on investment for attending
Be aware your city manager will focus on the costs of you attending. So you need to focus on the return to your department and your community. How much is that one great idea worth to your department and your community? How about that one important contact?

And as the only national fire service LEADERSHIP conference for fire chiefs and chief officers, FRI provides you everything you need to be a successful leader in just five days. FRI is your one-stop-shop, saving you extended time away from the office and your department money on travel to multiple events.

Also let your boss know you’re being cost-conscious. Check out the major airlines and travel websites (e.g., Expedia, Orbit) for travel deals. And on the FRI website, you’ll find a wide selection of affordably priced hotels.

Also note that by registering before July 17, you’ll save an additional $100 on conference fees. In addition, as an IAFC member, you save $150 compared to the non-member registration fee (how’s that for demonstrating the value of IAFC membership!).

Bottom line, attending FRI will better prepare you for the tough decisions you’ll face in the months ahead and will make a significant, positivie difference to your department and your community.

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