9 brilliant ways to secure a big budget

Most projects are subject to cost constraints or budgeted amounts. Giving your project the cash it deserves is the foundation for success!

Money / It’s a crime / Share it fairly / But don’t take a slice of my pie. / Money / So they say / Is the root of all evil today.

* Pink Floyd, “Money“, The Dark Side of the Moon (1973)

1. Understand your bosses’ needs

Know what your CEO and directors look for, their history of success and failure, and how these now shape their fiscal judgment. Think about what they want for the business overall, not just from this project.

2. Keep it crisp

Outline the benefits of your proposal clearly from the outset. This is, after all, what the business is buying. It can take a while to get right but it’s time worth investing.

3. Show a solution

Business leaders are far more likely to jump aboard when shown something that explicitly solves their problems. Present the business case and invite them to be a part of the decision.

4. Offer options

Economy, premium and first class – and be clear about the impact each will have.

5. Talk outcomes

And talk less about courses, competencies or career paths. Business leaders want to know what they’re getting from you – not what you’re up to.

6. Say it in pounds, dollars or euros

Highlighting the direct benefit to the bottom line is compelling stuff. Talk best practice, benchmarks and business metrics. Communicate value in real terms and your bosses will be impressed.

7. Focus on what you can change

It’s worthy to want to enhance employees’ lives, to transform the culture or improve the behaviour of your leaders. But if this isn’t integrated with the business strategy, it won’t happen.

8. Cull it

Eighty percent of your activity should be in line with the priorities of your company. Be ruthless, and lose anything that isn’t relevant.

9. Proof is in the past

Those with a quantifiable track record are three times more likely to have their budget approved. Make sure those above you know how you’ve done – hard facts leave no room for dispute.

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What do you think? Have I missed any points? Please leave your comments below:

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Mar201014

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