Tag Archives: Politics

Don’t Confuse Your Social Media Post with Effective Advocacy

Yesterday I spent the better part of five hours watching real Americans do something incredibly uncomfortable: testifying in public before a Congressional committee. This wasn’t one of those highly visible, controversial hearings where partisan hackery dominates the agenda. No, this was a hearing for a subcommittee focused on agricultural issues and they were debating theContinue reading “Don’t Confuse Your Social Media Post with Effective Advocacy”

These 3 Steps Will Make it Easier to Fight for Your Cause

At this point, I can’t keep track of how many of these “morning briefings” I’ve attended. Where DC-based political operatives “prepare” out-of-town advocates to go storm Capitol Hill. And they almost all follow the same script…

What Do I Do When I…only have one minute to make my case?

The real win in a moment like this – when you have a minute or less to talk about your issue – isn’t getting the listener to ‘yes.’ Success is getting them to say ‘I want to know more.’

Do this One Thing to Be Unforgettable to Decision Makers

When I think about those truly successful advocates over the years, the way the guided me was not what most would expect. It wasn’t a forceful push on an issue, it was a gentle nudge.

One Size Fits One; and How Schoolhouse Rock! Lied To You

A big challenge for me as I train prospective advocates is nailing down just what barriers stand in their way and keep them from taking action on the causes that are most important to them. These barriers are incredibly important for us to understand because there is no substitute for the effectiveness of a realContinue reading “One Size Fits One; and How Schoolhouse Rock! Lied To You”

Can you plan too much as an advocate?

I had to do it again this week. I had to share with folks just why I can’t stand talking points. It’s personal. At this point it’s almost as if I’m on a vendetta against bullet pointed communication in general. And before you tell me, yes, I know and recognize that this is a strangeContinue reading “Can you plan too much as an advocate?”

Make an Impression: 3 Ways to Make Them Care About Your Data

Significance is a different game altogether. Significance is the difference between completing a pass and completing the game winning pass. Significance leaves a lasting impression. If you want to generate those lasting impressions, below are a few ways you can get there.

“What do I do when…?”

One of my absolute favorite things to do professionally is training aspiring advocates. For me, there is no replacement for stretching the relationship building muscles and helping folks understand just how natural it can be to stand up for their cause. The trainings I do almost always center on the importance of practical application becauseContinue reading ““What do I do when…?””