The windows of opportunity to influence policymaking and political decisions are always short. You take them or lose them. You never know when it is going to be open.
This year is a busy year. The window of opportunity opens up quickly and slams shut even faster. You’ll be asked by new MEPs and Commissioners for solutions for problems. Your job is to make their lives easier and respond quickly.
A few weeks ago an old political acquaintance called me up out of the blue. She’d just been elevated to an important position. She wanted solutions to put forward on an issue. The usual suspects had nothing to send her.
As it was an issue I’ve spent 25 plus years working on, and I had more or less what she wanted in a briefing, I tidied it up and sent it over.
An old ally may suddenly be promoted and ask you for the solution to a public policy problem. Events may dislodge the best laid plans.
I think there is only one way to deal with it. It is to have a public policy briefing and legislative text filed away for when the call comes.
I go for the three versions. The two page (max) briefing, the longer version, and the legislative text.
I’ll always add a short cover note to draw out the reasons why it benefits their stated policy or political agenda.
The purpose is for others to co-opt your agenda. You don’t need to have your words acknowledged as yours.
When the window is open, take the moment, and promote your case. Don’t be waylaid by internal meetings, lack of a position, or worse a poorly prepared briefing.