We believe that good things are worth fighting for. We also believe that your attendance at the 2020 NextGen Summit is a very, very good thing! For this reason, we’ve compiled a list of some common areas where our attendees receive pushback on their path to approval, complete with responses to help you justify why you should attend, and clarify any misconceptions about the Summit that might be had.
1. Budget
Although it’s one of the most common obstacles to receiving approval for training, a tight budget doesn’t have to mean the end of the road. We’ve assembled a list of 10 tips for asking for training funding, even when money is tight, available here.
2. Will my boss recognize my time at NextGen as legitimate training?
Yes! Every session and workshop at the NextGen Summit is designed to align with a corresponding Executive Core Qualification (ECQ), as established by the Office of Personnel Management. In addition, attendees are eligible to receive 11 CPE credits for attending.
3. You’ve already been to NextGen. Why should you go back?
Every year, NextGen is a uniquely fulfilling and beneficial experience. This year in particular, we’re adding new breakouts \sessions and workshops that we’ve devised based on attendee feedback from the past 10 years. Even if you’ve been to NextGen in the past, this year’s summit will be all new and there will be plenty for you to gain from coming back!
4. Will I learn skills that I can take back to my office and use right away?
Absolutely! We will have focused, deep-dive workshops centered on practical topics such as communication, leadership and problem solving, just to name a few. Once you return to work, you’ll be able to put your newfound skills to the test straight away! Many of these workshops will also include takeaway worksheets and interactive exercises to help you deepen your understanding of the topic.
5. How is NextGen any different from other professional development events?
NextGen isn’t a stuffy, rigid government training event. Here, you’ll meet like-minded peers from all levels of government and be a part of our facilitated networking and career-coaching opportunities. We pride ourselves on fostering a sense of community at the Summit, and you can check out Summit testimonials to learn more.
In addition, we’ve got excellent food and helpful staff. And for the cherry on top, we’re cheaper than other conferences.
6. Can’t I just learn career development from books and webinars?
While we are firm believers in the power and importance of books and webinars as tools for professional growth (sign up for the NextGen book club here and also join us for some of our free online trainings here!), we also maintain that the best results come from in-person experiences with expert instructors who know how to navigate the world of government careers. By attending NextGen, you’ll have access to interactive sessions and the ability to hone your new skills in real life, all making for a much more engaging and deep learning experience.
7. I’m brand new to government, or I’ve been in government for a long time. Should I come?
In addition to its coverage of universally relevant subject areas, Nextgen has sessions tailored to both those who are just at the start of their government careers and those who are already seasoned members of the public service. No matter your experience level, there is something here for you!
For more free content, career resources and training related to the 2020 NextGen Summit, be sure to check out our website, found here. GovLoop, Young Government Leaders and hundreds of public servants will come together on Wednesday, July 22-23, 2020, at the Marriott Marquis Downtown DC Hotel for two days of training and leadership opportunities, innovating and networking. Will we see you there?
Great post Zack! I have heard all of these forms of pushback from attendees unfortunately, but your answers are spot on. Number 5 is definitely my favorite.