You've done your research. You know attending Automate is an investment you — or your company — should make. But there's one final hurdle: getting your manager's approval. That’s why we created a ready-to-customize Automate justification letter to help you make your case with confidence.
→ Download our Convince Your Company Email Template (PDF)
Whether you’re requesting full conference funding or need the green light to attend the free show, keep scrolling for tips on how to personalize your approval letter and highlight the measurable business value of being at Automate.
WHY GETTING APPROVAL CAN BE THE HARDEST PART
Even when an event is free to attend (and yes, Automate Show floor access is completely free), you still need a travel budget or to secure time away from the office. While a manager may value professional development, they must also balance budgets, project timelines, and competing priorities.
The secret to getting that "yes" is making it easy for them to say it. Clearly demonstrate the return on investment and show that you've thought through every detail, then approval becomes a no-brainer.
HOW TO USE YOUR FREE EMAIL TEMPLATE
We've created a PDF email template that does the heavy lifting for you. It's structured to address the exact questions your manager will ask and presents your request in terms of measurable business value.
Step 1: Personalize the Email Template
We've left customizable fields for you to add details about your company and your goals for the event. Include examples of what you intend to see and do:
- Which exhibitors do you plan to connect with?
- What automation technologies do you want to see?
- Are there educational sessions you'd like to attend?
- What about networking events?
It's important to be specific with these examples. Show you've done your homework, and if you don't know, browse the exhibitor list and conference program for ideas.
Step 2: Calculate Your ROI Story
Frame your attendance as an investment, not an expense. If your company is exploring automation upgrades or workforce training, show how your time at Automate could translate into:
- Reduced downtime
- Efficiency gains
- Improved throughput
- Cost savings and revenue opportunities
Be sure to back it up with real examples. Where and to what extent can automation enhance your operation? Your manager thinks in terms of impact. Give them something they can take to their boss, if needed.
Need some ideas? We have 11 of them.
Step 3: Send with Confidence (and a Follow-Up Strategy)
Once your letter is ready, send it to your manager. Pro tip: hit send during a time when your manager typically reviews non-urgent requests. For example, early in the week is usually better than Friday afternoon.
You may even want to schedule a short follow-up meeting. That's the time to review your goals, travel details, and discuss how you'll apply your learnings when you're back.
![Orange industrial robotic arm performing automated welding or manufacturing task on a large metallic cylindrical component on the show floor.]](/userAssets/image/AUTO26_Blog_Convince%20Your%20Boss-2.jpg "Orange industrial robotic arm performing automated welding or manufacturing task on a large metallic cylindrical component on the show floor.]")
GO BEYOND THE TEMPLATE
Want to really strengthen your case? Propose specific deliverables that multiply the value of your attendance:
Before Automate 2026
Prepare a one-page agenda listing your target exhibitors, sessions, and networking events. This shows you’re intentional and won't waste a minute of company time.
After Automate 2026
Write a brief report (or even email) outlining three specific takeaways that could lead to measurable improvement for your team. Be specific about expected outcomes, like "[insert solution] from [insert exhibitor] should reduce quality control errors by 25% within six months."
You could even offer to lead an internal presentation or lunch-and-learn session where you'll share key takeaways with colleagues. This turns your individual learning into team-wide professional development, multiplying the ROI of your trip.
READY TO MAKE IT HAPPEN?
Your manager wants you to grow professionally and bring back ideas that make the team more successful. When you make it easy for them by providing a clear business case, specific deliverables, and a professional request, you're removing the obstacles that typically slow down approval.
Download our Convince Your Company email template (PDF) now to get started. In under 15 minutes, you'll have a professional and compelling request ready to send.
The sooner you start the approval conversation, the more time you'll have to plan your agenda and maximize your time on the show floor. You've got this!
Additional Resources:
- 10 reasons to attend
- Register for Automate 2026
- View the exhibitor list
- About the conference
- Browse the show hotels
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