WHY AND WHEN SHOULD YOU LOBBY DECISION MAKERS ?

Why should you lobby decision makers?

• Because you have a point of view, and you think it is correct
• Because some other decision maker, and not you, has the power to turn that point of view into policy, and make it a reality
• Because you believe that decision maker is not as well-informed as you on this particular issue
• Because you also believe that if you advise that decision maker effectively, it will increase the chances that he or she will decide in your favor
• And because you believe that if the right decision is made, both you and the community will benefit

In very plain language, you want to lobby decision makers because you believe that lobbying will get you (and the people you represent) what you want.

When should you lobby decision makers?

• The issue at hand is controversial.
• There are others with opposing views.
• The opposition is engaging in lobbying efforts of its own.
• The decision is highly important for you or your group.
• The decision makers, in your view, have not made up their minds.
• You know specific facts about the issue, unknown to the decision makers.

If the decision maker knew your opinions, you think they would have a significant effect on the decision makers' opinion.

But are there times when you should avoid lobbying a decision maker? There probably aren't many, yet there probably are a few:

• When the decision maker already has all the relevant information.
• When the decision maker has heard from you very frequently and recently before.

You don't want to overdo it, or wear out your welcome. (In such cases, other allies can convey a similar message.)

• When the decision maker gives you signals that he or she has heard enough, and doesn't need to hear anymore. At some point, lobbying can become counterproductive, and no longer helps your cause. Be attentive to cues that tell you when to stop.
• When you are firmly convinced that no matter when you do, you will lose (or, possibly, that you will win.) In those slam-dunk type cases, you might want to save your lobbying efforts for another issue, or for another day.