You are pushing for the top public policy priority for your chamber or association. You need to muster all the influence you can to have any hope of achieving your legislative objectives.
Whether you appear as a witness before Congressional committees, state legislatures, or local boards and commissions, preparation is mandatory.
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Let’s examine five steps that successful organizations follow when it comes to persuading lawmakers.
- Develop and deliver a magnetic message. It takes time and effort. It will be worth it. Your argument cannot be left to chance. Remember, there is likely another group that opposes your stance, and they just may have delivered elegantly crafted messages.
- Send your best voices to testify. Maybe your president is the best option, maybe not. Never let titles or seniority get in the way. Make a conscious decision as to who can best move the ball downcourt in your favor.
- Practice the oral statement multiple times. Scrupulously assess your witness’ performance as well as how your message lands both in delivering the oral presentation and in responding to questions. Make adjustments as necessary.
- Rehearse rigorously for the Q&A. Toss three types of questions at your witness: 1) Friendlies (you may even suggest these to amenable legislators), 2) routine queries that you can expect in nearly every setting, and 3) hostile, to observe how your witness can bridge from a tough barrage to your message.
- Be respectful. You will not carry the day if you alienate office holders. They hold the gavel. Yes, you should be firm in your convictions, yet civil at the same time.
Advocacy is not a game for the faint of heart. Put some steel in your spine, heed the five recommendations above, then go forth and promote your critical initiatives.
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