I find some of the toolbox of the modern lobbyist to be, at best, confusing.
There are too many political advertisements on my linkedin and twitter feed that would make a snake oil salesman blush with embarrassment.
There appears to be a constant rush to invent, or pass off as invention, new ways of ‘communication’ and ‘political persuasion’.
An old toolbox
Edward Bernays would be amused. Many of his techniques are re-used today.
A lobbyist would be well placed to double down on the fundamentals before add new toolboxes. I think the basics are simple:
- A lobbyist needs to communicate clearly, concisely and persuasively. The greater challenge is to get their client to do this.
- Meet the right person, at the right place and time. And, at that precise moment have something clear and constructive to say.
- Recognise that civility and human decency are not out dated.
- Read a room in under 30 seconds.
- Know the mechanics of adopting and passing laws and decisions in a real way. Book knowledge is not enough.