Good Practice

A series of posts on good practice in lobbying and campaigning

How I use models and checklists as a lobbyist

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A long time ago, I asked someone who had a very successful track record of passing environmental legislation how he did it. He was able to get major legislation through, and have several proposals going through at the same time. His answer came down to “You follow the same process and steps for each proposal. … Read more

Reap what you sow

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Driving into work I heard the phrase “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap.” Galatians 6:7. This reminded me of a pleasant childhood being educated by progressive Roman Catholic De La Salle Brothers.  More importantly, Paul the Apostle’s advice is good advice for anyone … Read more

One approach for policy writing

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There is a lot of public policy writing in Brussels. A lot of this writing is designed to influence and persuade officials and politicians. You are writing because you want the reader to take action in your favour. As most decisions in Brussels are taken by ‘written procedure’, good writing will help you advance your … Read more

How to behave in a meeting and what to do before a meeting

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We spend a lot of time in meetings.Here I refer to external meetings with the Commission, EP, Member States, and Stakeholders. This piece refers to dealing with the Commission. They get so many meeting requests, the least one can do is not waste their time, and make the meeting useful for all. I don’t refer … Read more