The biggest challenge a lobbyist faces: The Resistance to Change

The biggest challenge you’ll face as a lobbyist is the resistance to change. A resistance to change is natural.  Glacial (pre-climate change rates) is about as fast as most people want things to evolve. By the time proposals come out the door, you won’t have enough time to gather what is needed – resources, position, … Read more

An APGAR Score for Lobbyists

Atul Gawande in “Better” mentions the APGAR test, which is performed on newborn babies. It has helped save the lives of many. I realised that I use a checklist that is, for all intents and purposes, similar. Over the years, I’ve used it with NGOs and Industry to help bring files back from the political … Read more

How can you influence a Commission’s proposal when half of the process is not public

For the last few years, I’ve taught on a  course at the EUI, “Unboxing the European Commission.” Over the years, the slides and case studies have been refined and become more forensic. The Commission’s working practices evolve. Yet, 99% of ordinary legislation goes through a familiar journey of adoption and legislative passage. The politics and … Read more