In strategic communication management, the most effective way to justify a request for additional budget or resources is to clearly demonstrate how work is currently prioritized against available capacity and skills. Option C is correct because it frames the request in terms leaders understand: trade-offs, constraints, and impact on business outcomes.
Senior leaders make resourcing decisions based on clarity and logic, not workload complaints. By showing how existing projects are aligned to strategic priorities, what resources and competencies are currently deployed, and where gaps now exist due to added high-priority work, the communication manager positions the discussion as a management issue rather than a staffing grievance. This approach reinforces the communicator’s role as a strategic advisor.
Demonstrating prioritization also makes consequences visible. Leaders can see which initiatives may be delayed, deprioritized, or compromised if additional resources are not provided. Strategic communication management emphasizes that effective influence with leadership comes from articulating options and implications, not simply requesting more budget.
The other options are less effective. Asking for resources based on benchmarking averages does not address the organization’s specific needs or priorities. Listing deliverables produced focuses on activity rather than value. Suggesting work be shifted to another department ignores accountability, quality, and strategic alignment concerns.
Option C aligns with best practice because it shows discipline, transparency, and stewardship of existing resources. It communicates that the department is already operating strategically and efficiently, and that additional investment is required to maintain effectiveness under expanded scope.
By grounding the budget request in prioritization logic and capacity realities, the communication manager increases credibility, strengthens trust with leadership, and significantly improves the likelihood of securing the resources needed to deliver high-priority organizational outcomes.
