3 Rules for Effective Advocates

by Zach Knowling

categories: HowTo, Nonprofit Jobs, Political & Advocacy Jobs

Published November 06, 2009 @ 09:16PM PT

Advocacy is as much of a science as it is an art. If you are going in to a new job or even a job interview you would do well to keep these 3 rules in mind to help keep you on track and ensure that you are using your time and energy most efficiently.

 

Rule Number 1

 

Recruit outside validators of your issues. You can talk about how important food safety is until you are blue in the face but until you have some farmers, elementary school cafeteria workers and super market managers (for example) on your side you do not have enough legitimacy to make your claim. Because of course a food safety nonprofit is going to have that position – it’s there job! You need unconventional people to deliver your message.

 

Rule Number 2

 

Develop relationships. Your goal is to get the word out about the great services you provide and convince people to support your efforts. Whether you are providing a service or advocating for a policy you need people to help you on your way. Make sure that you know every key reporter in your area, have friends in elected positions and keep good relations with your constituency of supporters. You will need all of these people to succeed.

 

Rule Number 3

 

Raise lots of money. Forget what you heard. The best things in life aren’t free. In fact, most free stuff sucks. You need to pay for the things you really want. That includes an office, materials, staff, advertisements, lobbyists, etc. You will need an innovative and dynamic development program and a sharp person in charge of it to raise the funds needed to sustain a successful advocacy organization.