Getting cooperation from the powerful
Don’t only focus on what you yourself want. Got to know what the other person need. Give him what he needs before you (expected to) get. Once you’ve given him what he needs, exercise your right to ask for what you need. Be direct, don’t hint. Approach him with confidence and optimism, expect the other person to say “yes.” Show respect in your tone of voice and the words you choose, but don’t apologize. Describe your need and let him work out the rest. Have a fallback plan just in case