I’ve been a lobbyist for over 13 years. It is a title that I take seriously and with respect. Unfortunately, many people don’t know the difference between a lobbyist and an advocate and as a result, the title “lobbyist” becomes soiled and dilluded.
There are many, many people who speak on behalf of their causes. It seems that every group in the world has its own association. And every association has its own spokespeople. When these spokespeople come to Congress and talk with Representatives and Senators about their association they call themselves “lobbyists,” in reality, however, they are advocates. They are advocating their position and educating Members of Congress about their group.
A lobbyist is a strategist, like a quarterback in a football game. He knows how to take an idea and make it a law. This involves working with many Members of Congress in the House and the Senate and knowing the process from top to bottom. If you compare it to a court of law, a lobbyist is a lawyer and an advocate is a pro se plaintiff.
Most lobbyists have advanced degrees (mine is in law). Advocates can be your average person who may not even have a high school diploma. Advocates will tell anyone at anytime in anyplace about their issue. Lobbyists know exactly who to talk to at the right time and in the right place.
The point is, if you just want someone to talk about your issue, get an advocate. If you want Congress to take action regarding your issue, get a lobbyist. And if you want the best lobbyist, call me.
August 5, 2011 at 7:13 pm |
Well said. Both play an important and vital role in the system
August 24, 2011 at 1:23 pm |
I loved this text, im training hard to be a lobbyst, but fo these i have, first of all to expand my networking. Thank you, for the good advices.