Research your organization’s policies regarding educational sponsorship requests.

Prepare an answer to this question: “Why should my company sponsor me?” Include aspects of company growth and the need for strong leadership in a challenging economy.

Include a realistic schedule of the time you will be away from the office for orientation, regular residencies, and other extended residencies during the program.

Your employer might be worried about losing you after you acquire your degree. Demonstrate your commitment; explain how much your organization will benefit from your new-found knowledge and tools.

Try designing and communicating your approach to complement the goals and policies of your organization. And keep the dialogue open with your organization’s leadership, your direct management, and your colleagues and peers. When they know what to expect, they will be prepared to accommodate your needs.

Determine who will make the decision about your sponsorship and work your way toward this person, starting with your closest mentor. If each person can endorse you to the next in line, you are more likely to succeed in your request. Once the ultimate decision-maker has approved you for sponsorship, make sure to get it in writing.