Lobbying Advice for Business Owners

Hiring a lobbyist is a logical step for trade associations and large companies. But if you think all it takes to hire an effective lobbyist is a fat bank account, you've got a lot to learn before you're ready to tackle the halls of government.

Big businesses have historically relied on lobbyists to influence legislation in their favor. Now boutique lobby firms that cater to small businesses are springing up to help level the playing field for smaller companies.

You can't afford to hire a lobbyist, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't try to influence lawmakers. Here's how to lobby government agencies without the expense of a professional political lobbyist.

Hiring a lobbyist sounds like an extravagance for most business owners. But there are actually many reasons why investing in a political lobbyist is in your company's best interest.

You've decided that your association needs a lobbyist. But now comes the hard part -- finding the lobbyist or lobbying firm that fits your goals and budget.

Leaders who have never worked with a lobbyist before can feel out of their depth during hiring interviews. Here are some of the questions you need to ask prospective lobbyists before making a hiring decision.

Hiring a lobbying firm can be a smart decision for an association or business interest. These tips will help you hire the lobbyist who is most capable of helping you achieve your legislative objectives.

Surprise, surprise, there are plenty of things that can wrong when hiring a political lobbying firm. Here are the mistakes you'll definitely want to avoid.

Paid lobbyists can work wonders, but only when business leaders understand their role in the relationship. Here's how to work with a lobbying firm to get the biggest bang for your lobbying bucks.

Paid political lobbyists command a high paycheck in today's economy. But how much does it really cost to hire a lobbyist and how can your organization reduce lobbing expenses?

Politics is a tough business and some lobbyists are willing to bend the rules to gain an advantage. But it's your responsibility to make sure your agreement's terms and conditions recognize the ethical boundaries.

Some business organizations hire paid lobbyists while others conduct their own lobbying efforts. Either way, there are some mistakes you need to avoid when lobbying a government agency.

Grassroots politics can be a powerful tool for business owners. Here's how you can use grassroots lobbying techniques to advance your company's political agenda.

Most entrepreneurs can't afford a high-priced, Washington lobbying firm. But they can actively participate in the political process by applying a handful of essential lobbying tips and strategies.

Everyone knows that lobbying is big business in the U.S. But how much is actually spent on lobbying each year? And what does that mean for American business owners?

Business owners can use lobbying to achieve any number of objectives at the municipal level including lobbying local authorities for zoning and land use changes.

Coalitions can multiply the effectiveness of your lobbying efforts. Here's how to build a lobbying coalition around the issues that are important to you and your company.