The Good Lobbyist

A good lobbyist needs to be

• A good listener
• Not easily upset or distracted
• Willing to let the other person talk and take the lead
• Persistent but not pushy
• Able to think and respond quickly
• Able to represent the views of others
• Able to say "I don't know"
• Able to keep a sense of humour
• Able to spot concealed agendas
  
• Able to know when to retreat and try a new angle

Adapted from
The Action Guide for Advocacy and Citizen Participation
by Lisa VeneKlasen and Valerie Miller

While not everyone is a good lobbyist, everyone can participate in lobbying.