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Comprehensive Government Relations Presented by: Denny Eliason, Alliances Northwest. Today’s Presentation 1) Why should business engage in government relations? 2) Elements of a comprehensive government relations program. 3) Types of lobbyists. 4) Qualities of an effective advocate.
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Comprehensive Government Relations Presented by: Denny Eliason, Alliances Northwest
Today’s Presentation 1) Why should business engage in government relations? 2) Elements of a comprehensive government relations program. 3) Types of lobbyists. 4) Qualities of an effective advocate. 5) Proper approach when lobbying an issue. 6) Tips for talking with lawmakers.
Why Should Business Engage? 1) It’s a cost element of your business that you can influence! a) Regulation adds considerable cost to your products and services. b) Taxation goes right to the bottom line. 2) Your competitors and detractors certainly engage. a) Unions. b) Consumer Groups. c) Trial Lawyers. 3) “It’s easier to get the right person elected than it is to get the wrong person to do the right thing.” Speaker Tip O’Neil
Elements of a Government Relations Program 1) Consistent presence before the elected organization you are trying to influence. 2) Effective and organized Grass Roots. 3) A credible Political Action Committee. 4) A public affairs strategy. a) Press relations. b) Paid media. c) Grass roots coordination. d) Social Media Strategy. (Web-site and beyond…)
Types of Lobbyists 1) In-house Company. 2) Unions. 3) Trade Association. 4) Government – State, Local and Agency. 5) Contract.
Qualities of an Effective Lobbyist 1) Honest. 2) Personable. 3) Hard Working All Year Around. 4) Intelligence. 5) Honest.
Proper Approach When Lobbying an Issue • 1) Be prepared – know your topic and the lawmaker. (www.leg.wa.gov) • 2) State your position on the issue. • 3) Explain to the lawmaker your opponent’s position. • 4) Tell them why your opponent is wrong. • 5) Explain how your issue affects the lawmaker’s district. • 6) Explain the politics of the issue both in Olympia and back home. • 7) Don’t ever forget to ask for the “question.”
Tips in Speaking with a Lawmaker 1) Relax. 2) Make it real. a) Talk about your company/organization. b) Relate the issue back to your district. 3) Don’t speculate. 4) Ask for the “question…”