The successful focus on real influence, a positive impact and tangible results. They are different to the smash-and-grab merchants who make money from making noise.
- They get in early. By adding early value, clarity and knowledge (aka facts and evidence), they influence far more than the loudest and most excitable latecomer.
- Total clarity of narrative – background, diagnosis and prescription. Focus on the explicit and the doable.
- Concise, consistent and everyday language that diverse alliances can unite behind.
- Cross party campaigning that avoids party or tribal politics. Starting with government, side-stepping the tribal, the political and the loaded.
- Doing fewer things, but better. Like writing fewer letters but making them real, personalised and relevant to the MP, their interests and their constituency. Meeting face to face. Avoiding lazy, impersonal “activity report” items like ‘No. of emails sent’.
- Successful ones also have one thing that can’t be taught. Unless you like, respect, understand and spend time with MPs you shouldn’t try political communications. How else can you understand? How else can you be believed or be trusted? Naturally and habitually building, and fostering, genuine relationships should be part of you. It shouldn’t be part of your job.