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fears even before they arise. If the person you are approaching has even one "what about..." concern after reading your proposal, you may be defeated.

4. Keep in regular contact with other departments so that you know what kinds of projects and budgetary requests are in the pipeline. IT professionals can sometimes isolate themselves and, therefore, be out of the loop about what is going on across the rest of the company. However, it's vital that you know what sorts of projects and requests you are competing against. Remember, there is only so much money to be distributed, and you need to be able to make an informed case about why the allocation should go to you and not marketing or customer service.

5. Talk to people who have made successful budget requests from the person who will be making the ultimate decision about budget allocations. People aren't computers, and they often respond to the manner in which they are approached as much as to the substance of the request. You'll do yourself and your project an enormous disservice if you make your budget request to the operations director in person when it's common knowledge that she prefers to receive a written proposal. Give yourself your best chance to succeed by tailoring your request to the person you are approaching.

6. Research your planned project thoroughly before you ask for funds. In today's financial climate, no one is going to approve money for a general idea. If you are prepared to discuss costs, options, timelines, implementation strategies and other related issues, you'll demonstrate that the money you've requested will be well spent, and the company will get exactly what has been promised. On the other hand, if you seem less than prepared, it may appear as though the amount you have requested was arbitrarily chosen and not a reflection of actual need.

7. Get support for your project from the departments that will benefit most from its implementation. All of your competitors in the race for company funds will swear that their projects are vital for the entire company. However, if you can get leaders in other departments to support your project in writing, you'll be able to demonstrate that the money you seek will positively impact multiple areas of the company. This may be what it takes to nudge your request to the front of the line.

8. Be prepared with a less expensive compromise proposal in the event that you receive positive feedback for your request but not outright approval. Management may feel

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