Every time I've run a team or department, I've ensured every single person knows how to say "no" to outside requests, other managers, and if the other person doesn't accept "no", to hang up/walk away with the comment "Please speak to my manager, "shortlegs". It's called 'aircover', because loyalty works both ways and as a manager that is part of the role.
No problems supporting anyone else in the business, just go about requesting it the right way, and I'll make the decision, prioritise the task, and if needed help you budget it ;)
I don't mind the occasional five minute favour, as long as it is both occasional and no more than those five minutes, provided I can spare the time in my schedule. Just like loyalty, favours work both ways. But I will usually inform my manager about it.
Biting the hand that feeds IT
