How to become A Lobbyist

Lobbying might be one of the most stigmatized professions, but to tar every Lobbyist with the same brush would be to throw the baby out with the bathwater. A genuine Lobbyist campaigns and pushes for political changes that would make the world a better place.

• Government Relations Specialist

What do Lobbyists do?

A Lobbyist would typically need to:

• Formulate and convey the views of an individual, group, or organization to outside stakeholders such as government agencies, trade associations, and legislative bodies
• Persuade politicians to propose, pass, amend, or defeat new legislation or amend existing ones to benefit the interest of their clients, minding the prohibition that they cannot offer financial rewards to a politician in this regard
• Campaign to raise the profile of their client/s; work in public relations and provide strategic communications advice; provide general public affairs support
• Conduct comprehensive research in any political area, such as national politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, political parties, globalization, and the history of political thought
• Collect and analyze data from primary sources such as public opinion surveys
• Use quantitative sources such as voter registration to analyze the data, identify voting patterns and develop pertinent theories
• Use qualitative methods in their research, gathering information from numerous sources such as historical documents to analyze past government structures and policies
• Develop and test political theories; evaluate the effects of policies and laws on government, businesses, and people, using public sources, political intelligence, and personal contacts Present research-based information that favorably highlights their client’s interests to politicians who may not have had access to it earlier in the form of presentations, articles, graphs, charts, polls, and reports(::)
• Provide information and analysis to help in planning, developing, or carrying out policies; anticipate the effects of new policies
• Monitor and analyze current events, policy decisions, and activities in the parliament, government departments, political parties, local government, think tanks, pressure groups, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and other relevant bodies
• Read parliamentary publications and printed transcripts; keep track of debates, questions, committee inquiries, statements, reports, regulations, and legislation
• Keep clients informed of any developments related to their field of activity; respond to public policy threats and opportunities; forecast political, economic, and social trends
• Research the domestic and international effects of government policies on a particular region or population
• Maintain relationships with existing stakeholders and develop new business; provide media management and other publicity activities
• Review the effectiveness of previous activities and how the client is viewed by political and other stakeholders
• Establish two-way communication politicians, civil servants, and staff in local authorities and regulatory bodies to brief them on clients' work and concerns
• Draft submissions to government consultations and select committee inquiries; attend select committee hearings, party conferences, and other events
• Respond to regulatory inquiries and testify at public hearings

Since lobbying can happen at different levels, the work environment is typically dynamic. Lobbyists might spend time traveling between locations and attending all events directed at putting them in front of politicians.

Lobbyists will almost certainly work outside of regular business hours. You tend to work long hours, typically between forty and eighty hours per week. When a bill is up for a vote, you will often work through the night.

Your work schedule depends to no small extent on that of the politicians they seek to lobby, which could be government business hours when the parliament is in session or evenings/weekends depending on the event that the politicians may attend. Your employer and your experience level may also be deciding factors in the kind of work hours you keep. 

Public affairs consultancies may be independent or part of a more extensive PR or communications company, acting on behalf of a range of clients. In-house Lobbyists may form part of a communications/government relations department. Competent Lobbyists who have built a reputation for themselves may opt to work freelance.

Lobbyists are generally employed by:

• Public Affairs Consultancies
• Public & Private Corporations
• Public Relations Firms
• Educational Institutions
• Government Organizations
• Professional Organizations
• Trade Associations
• Health Authorities
• Financial Institutions
• Political & Social Organizations
• Industry Organizations
• Scientific & Research Organizations

Professional associations and organizations like the International Government Affairs Professional Association are crucial resources for Lobbyists interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation.

Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Working to tight deadlines in a high-pressure work environment
• The need to stand for long periods while waiting patiently on the politicians they seek
• The need to regularly attend social events for work purposes may negatively affect work-life balance

Students who wish to gain exposure to the government network of lobbyists and politicians and learn how to advocate and influence politicians actively should try for the post of a congressional aide/political assistant or an intern at an agency or group requiring legislative representation.

Although they are often unpaid, interns garner a wealth of knowledge about issues at the heart of a constituency. They conduct research, attend and take notes at hearings, answer phone calls, send out emails, and read mail. They have the best opportunities to establish critical relationships and professional contacts that could lead to lobbying career opportunities.

Gain experience at the local/community level and accomplish some grassroots lobbying by making phone calls, writing letters to legislators to sway policy, and learning to fundraise. Get social and network, learn the art of persistence and persuasion, and learn to lobby other lobbyists.

Promising Lobbyists often begin their professional careers working for elected officials such as local city councilors, state legislators, or congressional representatives. With some professional experience behind them, many seek entry-level and associate-level consulting positions with firms and industry associations that have a legislative or lobbying arm.

They may go on to work as mid-level and senior-level government affairs consultants with private consulting firms, large corporations, or other organizations looking to impact public policy and legislation.

As public relations specialists, lobbyists usually have a bachelor's degree in political science, public relations, communications, journalism, law, or economics. A degree program in political science may include classes that cover lobbying and its role in the political system. Coursework may provide instruction on the legislative process and how lobbyists participate in creating rules and regulations. Lobbyists who earn a law degree are well equipped to interpret and draft legislation.

A master’s in public administration, public policy, or public affairs comprises core courses focused on research methods, policy formation, program evaluation, and statistics. Some colleges and universities also offer master’s degrees in political science, international relations, or other applied political science specialties.

Aspiring lobbyists who intend to lobby for a specific sector may choose to earn a degree directly related to it. For instance, an environmental lobbyist may major in environmental science or wildlife biology and complement the degree with a minor in political science or law, or vice-versa.

Individuals who participate in lobbying activities must register by filling out an initial registration form. Required registration information may include the filer's contact details, client information, and the lobbyist's subject matters of interest.

Professional lobbyists are also required to file a quarterly report listing their current contacts and lobbying activities. Once registered, a lobbyist may work independently as a self-employed lobbyist or as an employee of a lobbying firm.

Voluntary certification in public policy and government relations & lobbying from an objective and reputed organization can help you gain professional credibility, encourage renewal, and become an independent consultant.

Certification demonstrates competence in a skill or set of skills, typically through work experience, training, the passage of an examination, or some combination of the three.

Successful certification programs protect public welfare by incorporating a Code of Ethics. Investigating members that practice outside the Code earns trust and respect, which are the most critical elements in securing a professional’s future.

Performance, experience, and acquisition of professional qualifications drive career progression. As a new entrant to a consultancy, a Lobbyist will spend a large proportion of their time researching, monitoring, and responding to requests for information. However, face-to-face contact with clients will come quickly through attending meetings, briefings, and conferences alongside more senior staff.

Moving into an in-house public affairs department as a Public Affairs Manager or Policy Adviser is possible. Some may move into full-time political roles, such as working for a political party or as an adviser. These moves may be permanent or may be used to further develop experience and contacts before returning to consultancy.

It is generally easier to start in a consultancy role and move into an in-house position rather than vice versa. In-house teams are usually smaller, and you may need to move to another organization to further your career. However, you will likely have more input into policy and communications strategy and more opportunities to specialize.

Lobbyists face intense competition for most jobs. Candidates with advanced degrees, strong writing, analytical skills, and experience researching or performing policy analysis should have the best job prospects.

Candidates who have specialized knowledge or experience in their field of interest will also have better job opportunities. Internships or volunteer work also may be helpful.

Many of the larger political consultancies run a graduate program lasting from three months to a year. Trainees are introduced to the main political processes and forms of communication used in politics and lobbying and also gain exposure to the wider aspects of public relations and communications. Training in forming and developing client relationships is also provided.

Training may also include in-house courses; some consultancies arrange work experience placements in outside organizations for their trainees.

However, most Lobbyists learn on the job. By attending conferences, roundtables, and other events, Lobbyists create connections that could advance the position of their legislation while assimilating invaluable pieces of advice.

Acquiring a large pool of contacts can ensure job security for Lobbyists and help them develop influence and establish trust, which could propel their careers to the next level. Even low-ranking jobs in government organizations at all levels can be beneficial for gaining the professional contacts necessary to become successful in this field.

Forward-looking Lobbyists may also want to develop their strategic public affairs and management skills to take on more senior roles through accredited certification. Further study at the master’s level in public policy, public affairs & lobbying, corporate communication, governance, and politics may add to your knowledge and resume.

Impact Investing

Graphs and charts are useful tools, but the tipping point for most legislators before committing to backing a cause is the potential impact it will have on their constituents. As an accomplished Lobbyist, ensure you work for causes that appeal to you and affect communities or particular groups.

Retiring Politicians Offered Plum Positions

As individuals with comprehensive knowledge about the prevailing legal framework, the drawbacks in the legal codes, and easy access to the in-office politicians and custodians of law, retiring politicians are often prime candidates for the position of Lobbyist. They may begin with a standard job position but eventually take up lobbying.

Direct (Inside) Lobbying vs. Indirect (Outside) or Grassroots Lobbying

It comprises communication with a legislator or government official on specific legislation in the interest of the Lobbyist or their client. Grassroots lobbying asks the public to contact legislators concerning the issue at hand instead of going to the legislators directly. Lobbyists spend long hours on the phone and writing letters, writing articles for newspapers and magazines, and encouraging the community to get involved.

Paid vs. Free Lobbying

Generally, a business or professional organization hires a Lobbyist to represent their interests. However, some Lobbyists work pro bono in support of a noble cause or a non-profit organization.

Single-Issue vs. Multi-Issue Lobbying

The Lobbyist may campaign for a single issue or cause, as in the case of those who work for corporations. Lobbyists who work to further the interests of unions tend to campaign for a broader cause, encompassing a more comprehensive set of issues. Master Strokes Lobbyists who wish to run effective campaigns need specific, measurable, achievable, and timely (SMART) goals, a dynamic and diverse strategy, and relevant and clear communication channels.

Social media leverage to increase credibility and supporters, a solid fundraising plan, a multi-faceted coalition, an organized community, and the ability to engage the policymakers are other essentials you will want to have in your tool kit.

Ample Choice

Prospective Lobbyists who wish to join a consultancy may find that there’s more than one kind to choose from. Some consultancies specialize in particular areas, such as monitoring and intelligence gathering, while others provide 'full service.’

Similarly, some consultancies focus on specific industries, whereas others provide a generalist service. Several of the larger PR agencies have a specialist public affairs or government relations division.

Freelance Vs. Full-Time Work

Freelancing offers Lobbyists freedom with regard to flexible schedules, working hours, and location. They have full ownership of the business and can afford selectivity in terms of the variety of projects and clients presented. While it has unlimited earning potential, freelancing also has less stability and security, with inconsistent work and cash flow. There is more responsibility, effort, and risk involved. There are no paid holidays, and sick/maternity/paternity leaves are almost unaffordable. There is the added pressure of a self-employment tax and no eligibility for unemployment benefits.

A full-time Lobbyist, however, has access to company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Despite the above benefits, they are susceptible to potential boredom and inability to pursue passion projects due to their lack of time or effort. There is a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety, compounded by the need to set aside funds for commuting and attire costs.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

It takes only 10 percent of the population holding an unshakable belief to convince the remaining people to adopt the same idea.

Regardless of their location and the cause they are promoting, every Lobbyist’s objective is to inspire ideas, influence opinions, and elicit specific action. Lobbying is all about spreading a message to incite change in both social and political landscapes.

It’s not always what you know, but who you know.