Even in boom years, employees may feel nervous asking their employer for training. But any worker who is dead-set on additional training should think outside the box to come up with ways to enhance their skill set without emptying the company's pockets. First, brainstorm five or more possibilities, ranging in cost, in order to give the company some choices. Next, schedule a one-on-one appointment with the boss to talk about goals and ideas. For instance, explain in detail how a college course can ameliorate job performance. Third, if the budget is strapped, offer to pay 50 percent of the course fee. Fourth, be sensitive to any skills or functions that the boss is looking for in employees. Then, as the worker weighs training programs, he should strive to set vocational goals that also incorporate the employer's needs. And finally, remember the adage: You can ask for anything, as long as you do it the right way. Even if a request is not met with immediate approval, the boss will still remember the worker's desire to improve himself, and when money begins to flow more freely, the worker may be among the first to benefit.