Hiring a lobbyist can be an extremely important step for small businesses, trade associations, and non-profit organizations looking to achieve specific business objectives. They can help you navigate the legislative process, advocate for your goals, and effectively communicate your message.
There are many different types of lobbyists and each has unique skills. But before hiring one, there are a few things you should keep in mind that will allow you to make the best choice possible for your organization and its needs. Get tips here on how this is done and its benefits today.
Determine the Goals
Having specific goals and a clear plan of action will allow your lobbyist to determine if they can accomplish those goals, or if it's time to move on to other goals that may be more realistic for your organization. This will also give your lobbyist an idea of how long it will take to reach those goals, which is important when planning for a campaign.
Your Lobbyist's Areas of Expertise
Whether you are hiring a full-time or part-time employee, or contract, your lobbyist needs to have the relevant skills and experience. This can include a combination of policy expertise, writing skills, political experience, and relationships with lawmakers.
It's also important to consider the candidate's history with nonprofits and how they will interact with your organization and its members. A good candidate will have a collaborative track record, and they'll be able to incorporate your concerns into their work without bullying your group or acting like you are an intruder.
Be sure to review their portfolio, as well as their past clients' feedback. Check out the company's website to see if they have a strong presence on social media and to get a feel for their client list and experience with specific issues.
Consider your budget and how much you're willing to spend on a lobbyist. While it's often tempting to hire the most expensive and prestigious lobbyist on the market, you must be careful not to overspend.
A lobbyist's fees can range anywhere from $1,000 to $15,000, depending on the size of the firm and their level of experience. However, this is an investment that can pay off in the long run.
Ensure that the firm you hire is registered with your state's lobbying laws, and verify that they are licensed by the State Commission on Lobbyist Registration (CLR). It's also a good idea to ask for references.
The lobbyists that your chapter considers should have a proven track record with legislators and key staff. You'll want to interview these individuals and ask for their input. You can also reach out to other trade groups or state medical association leaders that have a working relationship with the potential lobbyists you are considering to gain an idea of their experience and their ability to represent your interests.
Click here to learn why the decision to hire a lobbyist is an important one for your organization, but it can be a daunting task. If you follow these tips and do some research, you should be able to find a lobbyist who will be able to successfully represent your chapter and its members. You can get more enlightened on this topic by reading here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Advocacy.
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