Quarterly Checkup - Presence

Believe it or not we are already at the end of the first quarter of 2013.  Now is the time to do a quick review of your program so far this year, and take a look at what you need to do next quarter.

Each Friday in March we will look at a different aspect of your government relations shop.  This week its your presence.

PRESENCE WITH ELECTED OFFICIALS -
Each year I send a letter to all the elected officials that represent the areas I cover.  Just a quick intro of the organization, who we are, who we represent, and an overview of the issues we cover.  However I take it one step further.  I give suggestions of how our organization may be helpful to them as elected officials.  Not from a "let's help your campaign" perspective, but what can our organization provide you as you address the issues of your community?

PRESENCE WITH COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS -
Who out there knows you?  Who do you know?  Who do you need to know?  Who do you align with most often?  Who do you oppose most often?

The last one can be one of the most important questions.  Because better than knowing your enemies, is knowing how you can make them friends.  What do you have in common that you can work on with them?

PRESENCE WITH YOUR INDUSTRY -
How aware is your membership of everything you do for them on a regular basis?  Do the leaders know what you are doing on their behalf?  Are you doing what they would want?  Maybe they have a suggestion of what you could do better for them as an organization.  Reach out to them.

For any of these elements that you haven't addressed already this year. Its time to set a timeline for yourself, a few basic goals, and a plan of how to reach these groups.

For those that you have built this presence with, what's the next step?
Elected Officials - Provide them some info and engage them in your community efforts.
Community Organizations - Figure out a few things where you can work together
Industry - Build an outreach program that engages them, and encourages others.

In reading this, if you have any questions, as always, please feel free to give us a call.