Convince your boss template

Subject: Professional Development Request: Public Speaking & Leadership Programme (£1,500)

Hi [Manager's Name],

I'd like to request funding to join BRAVE on Stage, a six-week live programme where I'll build and deliver a 10-minute keynote to a live audience. The programme is designed for professionals in tech who want to become stronger communicators and more visible representatives of their company.

You can view the full programme details here: [BRAVE on Stage]

The skills I'll develop directly benefit our team and company:

Company representation: I'll be positioned to represent us at industry conferences, panels, and knowledge-sharing events raising our profile in spaces where our competitors are already showing up.

Stronger internal communication: The frameworks I'll learn apply directly to how I present in meetings, lead discussions, and communicate ideas across teams. These are skills I can share with colleagues too.

Leadership development: Confidence, clarity, and the ability to command a room are core leadership capabilities. This programme builds all three through practice, not theory.

Talent and employer brand: When our people speak externally, it signals that we invest in our team which strengthens both retention and recruitment.

Programme results from the last cohort:

  • 3 out of 5 participants were booked to speak at external events before the programme even finished

  • 100% rated themselves 4 or 5 out of 5 on every core skill by the end

  • 100% scored 8 or above out of 10 when asked if they'd recommend it

Programme details:

  • Six weeks, with live 90-minute sessions on Monday evenings (6:30–8:00 PM GMT)

  • All sessions run outside working hours, so there's no impact on my day-to-day responsibilities

  • Includes live coaching, structured exercises, peer feedback, two private dress rehearsals, and a final showcase

  • Led by Amber Shand, who has delivered 100+ keynotes for companies including Google, Figma, Canva, and Depop

  • Investment: £1,500 (or two monthly payments of £750)

Happy to share more details about the programme or how the skills would apply to our team's goals.

Best,

[Your Name]