At some point in 2025, a government decision will negatively impact your business or your community. Take action now. It’s time for a crucial New Year’s business resolution: Get to know your elected officials before you need them. This proactive step can significantly impact your business’s success and influence in the community. And, even if you are good at this, there’s a good chance that there are new elected officials after the November election that you should probably reach out to.
One of my favorite quotes is from Peter Drucker: “Few relationships are as critical to the business enterprise as the relationship to the government. Managers have responsibility for this relationship as part of their responsibility to the enterprise itself. … To a large extent the relationship to government results from what businesses do or fail to do.”
Why is this so important? Elected officials play a vital role in shaping policies that affect the business community. By establishing relationships early, you ensure that your concerns are on their radar when critical decisions are made. As one state official tells business groups, “Don’t do what I do, get to know me before you need something.” Moreover, these connections can provide valuable insights into upcoming legislative changes and opportunities for your business to contribute to the debate. Here are three tips to help you fulfill this resolution:
- Schedule a meeting: Most elected officials love to meet with constituents, especially in their home district (if you can’t get to the state capitol). At the federal level, you can email their local staff to get on the calendar. In South Carolina, state legislators and senators keep their own schedules, so you can message them directly (contact information at www.scstatehouse.gov). Local officials are the most accessible. Google your town or county government for contact information. In South Carolina, you can find your state representatives here.
It’s quick. Take them out to coffee. Make it casual and simple. Most of them are really excited to meet with constituents. - Attend local events: Participate in town halls, community gatherings, chamber of commerce events, and other public events where officials may be present. This allows for informal interactions and demonstrates your engagement in local affairs.
- Seek out advocacy committees: Almost everyone is a member of an industry association, chamber of commerce, local non-profit, or other similar group. Contact them to seek out ways to engage on advocacy or government affairs committees. It’s a great way to learn more about the issues and interact with elected officials. Email us and we can put you in contact with some groups you might already be a member of.
By investing a little time in building these relationships now, you’re not just preparing your business (or non-profit) for potential challenges; you’re actively participating in shaping a business-friendly environment. Make 2025 the year you become an engaged and informed constituent, ready to collaborate with your elected officials for the betterment of your business and community.
Need help? Not sure where to go or how to start? Contact us and we can get you started.