We too July off to rest and refresh for the fall. But today, we’ll tackle something we hear from frustrated mid-level business folks… typically ones who love politics, but don’t see their organizations working on it.
Think you need a lobbyist to get a legislator’s attention? Not always. While lobbyists can offer strategy, access, and relationships, many business and organizational leaders can break through on their own — if you remember a few basic things.
Here’s the reality: public officials care about three things above all else:
- Their district
- Their voters
- Their time
If you can speak to those, you can be heard, even without professional help. Here’s how to start:
- Be local and specific. Always identify yourself as a constituent, employer, or community stakeholder. “We operate in your district” moves you to the top of the stack.
- Make it about them. Tie your issue to something you know they already care about: their committee work, recent votes, or district priorities.
- Be brief and clear. Don’t write a novel. They don’t have time. Congressmen have 1,000 things going on and state or local officials are part-time. Lead with your ask, and keep your pitch to two or three minutes — whether it’s a phone call, email, or meeting. (Shorter if it’s an email.)
- Follow up with purpose. A thank-you note, a relevant article, or an update keeps the door open and builds credibility.
- Show up locally. Attend a town hall. Join a community event. Familiar faces get callbacks. Defend the legislators if they’ve helped you.
Takeaway:
You don’t need a title to get noticed, but you do need a plan. If you’re not ready to hire a lobbyist, BridgePSG can help you build a smart, strategic approach that earns attention and builds momentum, so when the time comes to go bigger, you’re in the game.