Choosing a Health Underwriter Lobbyist
If you're planning to hire a lobbyist for your chapter, find one that is most suitable for your needs. You will be working with this lobbyist for years to come, so don't rush into making a decision.
When looking for professional legislative representation, here are important issues you have to bear in mind:
Experience
Is the Political Consulting firm or individual experienced regarding health insurance issues? What about representation for insurance professionals such as agents and brokers, or owners of small businesses?
Connections and Reputations
Does your prospect have considerable ties in the state capitol? Are these contacts experienced in issues that relate to the objectives and requirements of your chapter? Consider this lobbyist's reputation.
Knowledge in Regulation and Regulation
Legislation is not the sole factor that affects health insurance. Insurance regulators also pay a critical role. Hence, you should find a lobbyist that has the ability to keep track and influence of your state's legislative and regulatory processes.
Existing Clients
You must also consider the other groups that are being represented by the lobbyist you're thinking of hiring. To better understand this, go here first at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lobbying. In particular, you'd like to know how they handle conflicting interests of clients.
History in Politics
Your potential lobbyist's political beliefs should certainly match the interests of your chapter, and also with your state's political environment. Don't forget to consider that the party that your chapter mainly identifies with is not always on top. Hence, you should find a representative that can work with both ends of the political spectrum while pushing your agenda.
Record of Success
A lobbyist with a stellar track record, needless to say, is always an excellent catch.
Location and Size of the Firm
There's no need to get the largest lobbying firm in your locality. However, ensure that these people have the ability and the means to get things done.
Also ensure that the representative has no issues in terms of getting access to the capitol. In nearly every state, visibility means so much, you want a firm from the site at http://ruggeriowillson.com that will always "be on your side." Proximity concerns should also be a factor in relation to transportation costs.
Rapport
Finally, consider rapport. This, in fact, should be a major issue, knowing that working with individuals you are not comfortable can compromise the quality of your output. You and the firm or professional you hire should be able to work harmoniously. Get a representative that is eager to hear your inputs, and will always include you in important decisions.
As with most other things, the best route to a good lobbyist is through personal referrals. Ask other groups which firm they use and if they can make a recommendation. If you are closely connected with lawmakers or regulators in your state, you can also ask them whom they think the best lobbyists on the block are.
