The real trick is getting to the person who will stick a flag in the ground and tell you what is, and how to go about getting you what you want. Sometimes what you want isn't possible and you need to get them to explain WHY it isn't possible.
Remaining polite is important and not taking "I don't know" for an answer. When you're nice to them, it's amazing what you can get people to do to help you. Worst case, they'll point you to someone who might be able to help you.
SpyNavy
Garde la Foi, mes amis! Nous nous sommes les sauveurs de la République! Maintenant et Toujours!
(Keep the Faith, my friends! We are the saviors of the Republic! Now and Forever!)
LonePalm, le Républicain du verre cassé (The Broken Glass Republican)
Remaining polite is key. I have a tendency to blow up, but not when I’m on the phone negotiating with them - I do that on my own time, get it out of my system, and then call and talk.
Steam pressure must be released from time to time, in a way that will not damage the rest of the machinery.