It’s not hard to start! You are probably doing some kind of government relations already. Here are steps to help organizations make informed choices:
- Identify Goals and Objectives: Clearly define what goals your organization would need to achieve through government relations. Is it policy change, regulatory compliance, funding, or public support? Understanding the specific goals is essential.
- Stakeholder Analysis: Figure out how each level of government (and who is making the decision) affects your organization and neighbourhood. Identify the key stakeholders and decision-makers who can impact your objectives. Determine who has the authority to influence the desired outcomes.
- Assess Resources: Evaluate the organization's available resources, including budget, staff, and time, dedicated to government relations efforts. Decide what kind of interaction would be most appropriate for each level.
- Organize with Others: Find other organizations or individuals who are interested in a similar government relations strategy. Co-create initiatives and plan together.
- Prioritize Methods: Assess the different methods of government relations and prioritize the ones that are most likely to achieve your objectives effectively. Elected officials and bureaucrats are approached by groups all the time. There is only so much they can do so make the most of the limited time you have with them. (Make it more effective by using the matrix.)