Most network engineers are sharp as tacks about networking technologies, even those tricky things like NAT and subnetting. They can be dull as dirt, however, when it comes to pitching their projects to upper management. As a result of these paltry pitches, many networking projects -- even very worthy ones -- are rejected by managers.

Networking pros have to be ambidextrous, having great technology know-how on one hand and major league pitching abilities on the other. In many years of hearing and making pitches, I've compiled a list of project presentation dos and don'ts. These tips could help you win the hearts and minds of your managers.

Do expect to be nervous. Many people rank public speaking above fear of flying and dying. Relax.

Do look sharp when you walk in to do your briefing. Look relaxed, but not comatose! Project confidence, and present your project with an air of competence. You've got about 30 seconds to impress your manager. You can overcome a bad first impression, but it's just easier not to have to fight a bad impression.

Do tailor your language to your audience. This is a critical skill. You don't talk to the IT Department the same way you talk to management. They live in a different world, work with different terms, have different educational levels and need to be approached differently.

Don't forget about company POLITICS, POLITICS, POLITICS. More projects have been shot down due to politics than were ever killed