There are super powers that will make you a lot more effective as a lobbyist.
They are:
Being likeable.
Being clear: both in writing and speaking.
Two of the most effective officials I’ve seen first hand, Ludwig Kramer and Bjorn Hansen, from DG Environment had it.
They were both pleasant and decent people. It resonated from them. They were likeable.
They could communicate complex issues clearly. They did this with crisp written briefings and when speaking. Senior officials understood what they were saying.
Explaining complex issues clearly at the right level for the intended audience: politicians, senior officials, or desk officers – is a rare skill.
Few officials can do it. I suspect that tonight there are some Commissioner-designates losing the will to life reading through unclear and lengthy briefings for the hearings written by officials who regard clarity and brevity as insults.
If you want to become a more effective lobbyist, copy those superpowers.