Tuesday, December 07, 2004

5 Excuses for Missing Autodesk University 2004

I didn't make it to Autodesk University 2004. Did you miss it too? Why? Here are some excuses to choose from and some action items to help you get there in 2005:


  1. Is it December already?
    Get a calendar. Treat Autodesk University like a project. Determine the latest date you can get cheap airfare and work backwards from there. Make a plan.

  2. My _______ (insert boss/spouse/kids/pet etc.) wouldn't let me go.
    Tell them now that you want to attend AU in 2005 and you need their help to get there. Communicate to your boss the advantages of the education. Communicate to your spouse the future opportunities. Communicate to your kids the goodies you'll bring back from the show. Feed your pet - they don't care where you go as long as you come back and feed them again. Actually, that may be what your boss/spouse/kids want too. Make a plan.

  3. Too much work to do.
    Really? Were the 4,000 plus people at AU 2004 just a bunch of loafers? Maybe you need to brush up on some time management skills so you can be prepared to take off for a week in 2005. Make a plan.

  4. It's too expensive.
    Reality check. $1295 for conference and lodging for 4 days - that's a bargain hunter's dream. If you think you'll get that objection next year then start "Plan B" right now to save up so you can pay for it yourself. Make a plan.

  5. I didn't plan.
    Ah, there it is. A bit of honesty. Well, learn from your mistake. Put it behind you. Make a plan.


Make plans now to attend Autodesk University 2005 in Orlando!


P.S. Lynn Allen also has some great advice on negotiating with management at Autodesk - Autodesk University 2004. Check it out before the AU 2004 site is removed.

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