Rules of Lobbying

Is someone getting elected reason enough to seek their support

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Some lobbyists seem to believe that just because someone is elected, they should go and seek their support. I’ve never understood this. There are two simple reasons for this. First, the support of some politicians is the political death knell for your client’s issue. Second, plenty of people have done well in Elections, who, at … Read more

Why I recommend not engaging with the far right

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I was recently on a panel and asked about working with far-right politicians. My rule of thumb has been not to recommend doing so. I base it on four objective criteria and two personal reasons. The objective criteria are: First, when the far-right groups back an issue in the EP, it Is tantamount to ringing … Read more

How To Pass A Law Fast

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If I wanted  to pass a law fast,  this  is what I’ve learned works. Stick the details in the  Annex. So few people read, and even fewer read to the Annexes, you’ll be able to hide the substance in plain sight. Make sure the title is suitably non-descriptive. Give it an innocuous title. If a … Read more

50 useful mental models for any lobbyist

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I’ve listed the most useful mental models – rules of thumb – I use in my day to day work. I’ll develop the list over time. 80/20 Principle. 95/5 – Pareto Principle + The Overton Window. The Map is not the Territory. Be a shepherd – safety travel the journey many times. Don’t rely on … Read more