Structuring the Foundation of a Government Affairs Program

With any government affairs program it's important that you create a transparent system for your members, non-members and elected officials so everyone understands where you stand on issues on behalf of your membership.

If you are transparent, no one can get angry on the positions you take on behalf of your membership.

That's what we do as Chamber executives on behalf of our members.

It's our job to fight for our small business members before the local Zoning Commission, City Council, State Government and even the Federal government when appropriate.

I've said it before, we should not be in the "parade" business.  We should be in the advocacy business and not shy away from it.

Your members will appreciate your taking a stand for them before the appropriate elected body to look after their best interest.

Never forget that that's the business we're in!

Creating a Government Affairs Program

I was recently meeting with a local chamber CEO and they asked the question "How do I start a government affairs program at my chamber?"

It's very simple!

Start by:

• Forming a governance structure, identify a chairman (current member of the board) to head your Government Affairs or Advocacy Committee;
• Survey your membership to identify the issues that are important to them;
• Have the committee discuss the issues; and
• That committee should make recommendations to your full chamber board on what position to take on any legislative issues.

This new government affairs committee does not have to meet every month. I'd suggest quarterly will do the trick as you get started, unless you have a very active legislative session.

Who should you pick as your chairman?

A current board member without an ax to grind and a consensus builder would be a great choice.

Like any chairman, it's important to pick an individual that will put on their "chamber hat" and work on issues that affect all businesses.

And there will be times when you will have members on both sides of an issue, don't worry that's what your committee is for.  My guess, in those situations you won't take a position.

But once the board has approved a position (support or opposing an issue), communicate that position to all stakeholders:

• Your members;
• The legislators;
• The media; and
• Your community.

Chambers were created to stand up for their members and take pro business advocacy positions. We are membership organizations, right?

It's as easy as that.

For a related blog post on Advocacy: Three Elements of an Effective Program go HERE.

Or you can access this blog post titled Advocate: What's Your Chamber's Role HERE.