From the Travel Bag

Q: I'm an inventory specialist for an online company and wish I could travel for work. I'm tired of sitting behind the desk all day. How can I convince my boss to let me go somewhere, anywhere, and have them foot the bill?

How to Make the Boss Foot the Bill?

The fact that you want your boss to foot the bill leads me to believe that you think she might. If that's the case, you need to come up with a plan and not just a "I deserve to go somewhere" tactic. It's not your boss' problem that you want to go somewhere, keep that in mind. That is not your angle, your angle should be how to convince her that you should go somewhere and that it will benefit the company. Start researching inventory trends, businesses, seminars, your own clients, and anything that remotely relates to your job. Maybe a new computer program has come out and you could go to San Diego for a one week workshop? Maybe you have a dissatisfied client that might need a little face time to smooth things over? Then add in a day or two before and after your business matter to enjoy your own downtime -- if at all possible. But remember that having your boss foot the bill means she'll expect you to work, and that equals up to not having a 'real' vacation. You may get more satisfaction that the trip is free and not care about having to work. But make sure you really think about what you want out of this trip and plan accordingly.

If your boss doesn't bite, let her know you're open to the idea when she feels it's a better fit. That way you're leaving the door open. Then look at taking a 1 day work related class, meeting up with a client, or meeting with a consultant about your career in your vacation area. Beforehand, talk to your accountant about how and how much you can write off. You may end up being able to write off 100% of the vacation. And it's a great way to give something back to yourself.