Legislation and Lobbying: What to Look for in a Lobbyist
In previous issues, Janet Swandby reviewed the history of home inspector licensing laws, including ASHI’s lobbying efforts, and presented the toolbox essentials for being successful in the legislative arena.
According to Swandby, home inspectors can be extremely successful in the legislative arena, if they do the following:
- Know what you want
- Think like a legislator
- Lower your expectations
- Get help
She recommends getting the best help possible by hiring a lobbyist, but not just any lobbyist. Here’s her advice for what to look for in a lobbyist.
Over the years, many ASHI members have asked for advice from me on choosing a lobbyist. Some were retaining a lobbyist for the first time. Others were feeling that their lobbyist was not doing a good job, and it was time to change horses. Here’s what to look for when hiring one.
Experience
First, ASHI chapters should not be looking for someone who is only experienced as a lobbyist, but for one who has experience as an “insider” in the Capitol. Look for a former legislator or staffer who will understand the legislative process from the inside. The lobbyist should have established contacts in the Capitol. But avoid the “name-dropper,” and do not put all your bets on the lobbyist who promises that his close relationship with the legislative leaders will guarantee your success. Leaders change. When that happens, you will no longer be holding a winning hand.
Be cautious about former legislators or staff members who are closely aligned with one political party. It may mean that they will not have access to one-half of the legislators, and home inspector regulation is not politically charged. You will need both Democrats and Republicans to support your position. It may be beneficial to retain someone who has had life and work experience outside of the Capitol. You will find lobbyists today whose only other work experience is as a legislator and/or as staff to a legislator.
Reputation
Most importantly, look for a lobbyist who has a reputation for honesty and integrity. Contrary to popular belief, honesty is essential for success in the legislative arena. A lobbyist who has lied to legislators will never be trusted again. Realize that the former legislator who is “liked” by all of his former colleagues is not necessarily “respected” by them. Sure, legislators like to go out for a beer with these lobbyists, but rarely carry any water for them.
Communication Skills
Lobbying is an odd combination of teaching and sales. In today’s world, a “schmoozer” is no longer enough.
A lobbyist will have to be skilled in both verbal and written communication. Ask not just how they will communicate with legislators, but how they will communicate with you.
Comfort
The lobbyist you retain will truly represent you in the Capitol and should be someone with whom you feel comfortable. Comfort often means someone who understands your business, but the issues related to the regulation of home inspection can be learned. On the other hand, the experience and reputation of an established lobbyist cannot be achieved by a novice lobbyist who just happens to know something about home inspection.
Toolbox Essentials
- Know what you want
- Think like a legislator
- Lower your expectations
- Get help
Home inspectors can be extremely successful in the legislative arena if they do their homework and enter the Capitol properly prepared. Don’t wait for a crisis. Decide what you want to be law in your state, begin building relationships with legislators, learn more about the legislative process, and retain a lobbyist to help you navigate. And do not be afraid to ask for help — from your colleagues in other states or from ASHI.
To Read the Full Article
ASHI offers its members unparalleled resources to advance their careers. ASHI offers training for inspectors at all levels of knowledge and experience, including resources about all major home systems. Members benefit from a vast network of experienced professionals, providing a community for mentorship and knowledge sharing..
In this Issue
FIND A HOME
INSPECTOR
Professional Networking
Grow your professional network, find a mentor, network with the best, and best part of the community that’s making home inspection better every day.
