should a client pay for my time at a conference?

Question

one of my clients has insisted i attend a 42 hour conference over 4 days. they are paying for the conference registration fee. should they also pay for my time at the conference or at least some of it? i will be losing profitable work time by attending plus having to drive 10 hours roundtrip. please advise!

Answer 1

Yes definately. I am a VA and when a client wants me to attend or host a conference, I require they pay travel (if outside 50 miles radius then air, hotel, car rental, and meals in addition to mileage) and hourly wage. Now, dependant upon the conference, if there are evening dinners that you are required to attend by your client then you can include those hours too. If you choose to bill for your hours, make certain your client is fully aware of this prior to the event so that they can make and informed decision for their business. I would send and estimated hours invoice and let them know that you require this in addition to hotel. Include your drive time in your hours.

Best of luck to you
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Answer 2

Yes, if you are attending the conference for the sole benefit of the client, (and it appears he agrees since he is paying other costs,) it is reasonable to bill him for your time and reasonable travel costs. However, you must broach this subject before traveling to confirm his acceptance rather than sending him an unexpected bill after the fact. (Obviously, it is good business to never inadvertantly anger a client.)
On the other hand, will the conference benefit any other clients? Is it information or certification you need in order to do a better job for him? If it benefits other clients, you may want to chalk this to "continuing education." You can deduct the reasonable costs as a legitimate business cost on your taxes.
Too, if after attending the conference, you will be able to charge the client for further services made possible by this conference, you should absorb the cost.
You need to figure out who benefits the most and that will help you decide who should pay.

Answer 3

Is it a conference you would normally go. If yes, then charge your client a discounted fee if the conference is beneficial to you in your future consulting. If not, charge by the day. You should also setup an agenda to list targets and goals at the conference with your clients. What is the purpose for you to attend the conference? You need to negotiate with your client. Tell him how much you would normally charge per day but will give him a discount. Why drive, fly!!! Client should be paying for the airfare plus itemized expensive such as lodging.