Which Organizations Should be Considering Government Relations?
Government relations is an aspect of communications that many people feel confused, frustrated or intimidated by. Here are some of the most common high-level questions/comments (and answers) on government relations (GR).
What is government relations?
Government relations is a systematic approach to building relationships, awareness, understanding and support among decision makers (at both the political and bureaucratic levels). It seeks or provides an opportunity for stakeholders to participate in regulatory and policy decisions that affect a company and industry.
Which companies need government relations?
The level of government interaction and involvement varies greatly from one organization to the next and it varies between federal, provincial, and municipal governments. For some, government is their regulator. For others, it is their main source of funding. For almost all, government legislation and policies effect and influence their industry and/or their business. Governments and government officials can also positively or negatively impact an organizations reputation and brand.
But I don’t need/want to lobby government…
Government relations doesn’t need to be lobbying or asking for a big change. Often it isn’t asking for anything at all. Allowing government to be informed about your business, its value, the importance of your industry, your priorities, and concerns, can help in many ways. For example, it can help avoid decisions that are unknowingly detrimental to your business or industry, raise an organizations profile or better position a business for funding in which it is eligible to receive.
But I’m not a (insert political party here).
Government relations doesn’t need to be partisan or imply an individual or organization is politically affiliated (or even politically interested). Government relations also isn’t just about engaging politicians and political staff- bureaucrats are an important part of engaging government too.
How can government relations support and counsel help?
Solid government relations support can help organizations and leaders by:
Educating the client on how government decisions are made
Considering the many elements that impact the direction and timing of government decisions
Guiding the strategic decision on when, who, and how to engage
Seeking insight and intelligence on government priorities
Helping find reasonable solutions and opportunities for consultation in government decision-making
Developing strategies that are tailored to the organization, and where necessary, the specific topic
Government relations guidance from an experienced communications professional can even help avoid common mistakes on the aspects that seem the most simple – timing, process, audience, meeting format, the ask, and the information or pitch itself.
Having someone who is observing governments at a granular level and thinking about potential impacts of politics and decisions, is a very worthwhile investment for almost any business. The service is scalable to suit specific needs.
If your organizations is considering starting or improving its government relations but doesn’t know where to start, or if strategic advice or insight is needed on a particular issue, connect with Cove Public Affairs to see if its services might be right for your needs. If they’re not, we can often connect you with someone else who is the right ‘fit’ for your needs and goals.
- Sarah Fleming, Owner/Principal Consultant
