Advocacy Training

Achieving Your Advocacy Goals

"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances." - First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution

Follow the 16 Rules for Effective Advocacy

Rule 1: Begin your lobbying efforts when you don’t need to.
Rule 2: Be credible and respected.
Rule 3: Understand the politician’s frame of reference.
Rule 4: Understand the governmental decision-making process.
Rule 5: Know your issue and how it affects you, your operations, or your association.
Rule 6: Prepare a concise summary of the issue – develop a one-pager with essential details to leave behind; have supporting materials available.
Rule 7: Develop a written lobbying strategy and implementation plan.
Rule 8: Be respectful of, and recognize the time and resource constraints facing the elected or other governmental official.
Rule 9: Hire a professional to assist.
Rule 10: Respect and embrace the staff.
Rule 11: Use technology for communication and research.
Rule 12: Develop coalitions with like-minded organizations and businesses.
Rule 13: Develop a media strategy to promote your message and to reach decision-makers.
Rule 14: Be courteous and tolerant with elected officials and their staffs.
Rule 15: Follow-up regularly.
Rule 16: Be patient awaiting action but remain tenacious and vigilant.