The "lobbyist" title is a broad one. It can apply to anyone involved in major political campaigns, corporate mergers, or even local movements that only impact a single community. Wherever they're located and whatever their cause, however, lobbyists are all working to influence ideas, opinions, and actions. They are committed to changing the social and political landscape by spreading a message they believe is worth listening to.
The career path of a successful lobbyist is comprised of many diverging trails, all leading back to one common goal: results. But what does a professional lobbyist do to achieve their goals and incite change?
1. They Are Master Communicators
First and foremost, every successful lobbyist is a master communicator. They state their objectives clearly and confidently without losing focus of their desired goal, which is crucial to a movement's success. Solid communication skills are the foundation of any good argument, and that's what a lobbyist needs to get results.
For example, a state legislator may not be an expert of assistance programs for small businesses. It's the lobbyist's job to help them understand the issue, by explaining it clearly and passionately, so they can feel comfortable backing it.
2. They Are Connected
Often, lobbyists have a clear inside scoop on an issue, granting them a unique perspective that allows them to credibly predict the outcome of a movement. They have a thorough understanding of the inner workings of a company or campaign, and they're skilled at leveraging their experience to reach goals.
Colin Crowell, Twitter's Head of Global Public Policy, did extensive work as a congressional staffer and has experience as a FCC aide. He combined his communications and political experience to bolster the social networking site's reputation as an important tool for lawmakers and politicians.
3. They Are Invested in a Cause
Many lobbyists hold causes close to their hearts. This is especially true at the local level, throughout grassroots movements that affect communities or certain groups. While data and statistics are important to lawmakers when it comes to backing a cause, they must first be captivated by a story. Legislators value getting to see exactly how an issue affects their constituents as its more compelling and human than graphs and charts.
4. They Are Bold
Image via Flickr by Darin Barry
Finally, lobbyists take risks. They're bold in how they go about spreading their messages. The term itself was derived from the act of standing in the lobbies right outside of voting chambers to influence lawmakers at the last minute. There's never a guarantee that their target, political audiences will act one way or the other, but lobbyists are persistent regardless of the uncertainty.
These are just a few interesting facts of the lobbyist profession to help educate you if you are considering this career path, or are just interested in how the profession works. Ultimately, if you are looking to become a lobbyist, consider what issues you would work for or against. What do you care about? What sort of results do you want to see and when? When you can clearly answer those questions and communicate it to a target audience, you'll be well on your way to changing the world.