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When a new Congress takes office, Capitol Hill fills with fresh faces: newly elected Members of Congress and their legislative staff. For new lobbyists, this turnover creates a unique opportunity to build relationships from the start. But the first meeting with a lawmaker or their staff can quickly go off track if you don’t understand what to expect. Avoiding common pitfalls will help you make a strong impression and lay the groundwork for future influence. Here are the three

If you’ve ever tried to rally support for a cause, you know it’s a bit like trying to herd cats—adorable, but wildly unpredictable. Crafting an effective advocacy plan creation is your secret weapon to turn that chaos into a well-orchestrated symphony. Whether you’re a nonprofit, a community group, or flying solo as an advocate, having a clear strategy can make your voice not just heard, but listened to . So, buckle up! We’re diving into the art and science of advocacy with a

So, you want to make a splash in the world of advocacy without needing a treasure chest of gold? Welcome to the club! Crafting an...

Picture this: The government shutdown ends, and D.C. suddenly resembles Black Friday at Best Buy—everyone's rushing back to the Capitol with their urgent priorities, elbowing past each other to get face time with lawmakers. Meanwhile, you're sitting pretty because you actually used the shutdown strategically instead of just stress-eating and refreshing news feeds. While everyone else was treating the closure like an unexpected snow day (cue the panic buying of meeting request

Government shutdowns create a unique lobbying landscape. While the Capitol may feel quieter, strategic advocates know this period can present unexpected opportunities—if approached with the right mindset and respect for the circumstances. Navigating the Shutdown Landscape Situational awareness is everything during a shutdown. The appropriateness of your outreach depends entirely on what you're asking for. Seeking meetings about appropriations bills or immediate budget decisio

Congress is preparing for another round of legislative shenanigans next week! So, what’s a lobbyist who just finally maybe started relaxing to do? Panic? Nah! Let’s talk strategy, folks! Whether you’re a battle-hardened advocate, a lobbyist with a cape and an agenda, or a rookie just trying to figure out which end of the legislative process is up, proper preparation can be the difference between a triumphant victory dance and a sad, lonely coffee break. Here are five essentia

Or: How to avoid becoming the cautionary tale other lobbyists tell at happy hour Starting your first advocacy campaign can feel like...

August in Washington, D.C. is a lobbyist's secret paradise—if you can survive the humidity that makes you question your life choices. The...