There was a lot to learn at this week's Public Affairs Council Advocacy Conference. Here are three things that stuck with me.
🌴 eBay has created one of the most impressive corporate grassroots programs I've seen by developing a robust advocacy partnership with their small business sellers. This true grassroots program (not just one-and-done grasstops) goes far beyond an annual fly-in to incorporate a steady drumbeat of advocacy activity throughout the year that builds strong relationships with lawmakers. Congratulations to Alan Elias and Jeff Michaud for their great work.
🌴 🌴 Working in a large affiliated organization can be challenging (so many of us know that first-hand), but that hasn't stopped the American Farm Bureau Federation from developing a very powerful Ambassador-type program. Their commitment to training and skill-building is extraordinary and they've successfully created a multi-tier engagement pyramid to maximize member impact. And it’s all run by just one person, Tom Donnelly, III.
🌴 🌴 🌴 Many advocacy professionals are still intimidated by AI. This became clear through the interactions I had with people who attended one of my AI Tips & Tricks sessions at the conference. It’s important for organizations to embrace using AI in their advocacy programs and encourage their staff to fight through the fear and try it out.
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