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How to become a Lobbyist?

Share your journey & guide aspiring Lobbyists on their path!

Note: We've seen a lot of interest in this career, so we're looking for guidance from our community of professionals.

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Morgan’s Answer

I agree with the suggestions to gain experience working in the public sector or state/local/federal government. You will be able to build relationships and understand how things work/how things get done in government, which will be critical to being able to represent interests with lawmakers.
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Colin’s Answer

At the federal level, intern on Capitol Hill with a Member of Congress or a congressional committee. That may potentially open up a full-time role in that office. If state and local, similarly identify potential internship or work opportunities at those levels. A lot of lobbying has to do with "who you know," so networking and building connections is critical. That can be used as general career advice as well. Try to decide what issues you would like to lobby on and identify organizations that lobby for that particular issue. Interning or working at that lobbying organization may be useful as well.
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KENNA N’s Answer

Hello! One suggestion is to seek opportunities with your local state representatives or senators. As a college junior, I did an internship with a state representative and worked at his office at the CT State House. Legislators generally sit on different committees so depending on your field of interest, you can try to intern with a committee that interests you such as: finance (budgeting), agriculture, education, energy, etc. Lobbyists generally work in a particular area and help their clients by trying to get certain bills passed. So, working in the state house or directly with a local legislator's office will help you get the foot in the door and learn more about the various public and private sector opportunities. You will likely meet lobbyists and may even be tasked to respond to constituent letters. I encourage you to reach out to your local senator or state representative to seek out volunteer opportunities or even set up a meeting to network and continue to ask these types of questions. Best of Luck!
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Sharie’s Answer

Becoming a lobbyist involves a mix of education, experience, and strategic networking. Here’s a streamlined approach in three key steps to enter into the field of lobbying:

1. Educational Foundation
Degree: Obtain a bachelor’s degree. Relevant fields of study include political science, law, public relations, public administration, or communications. These disciplines provide a strong foundation in understanding government operations, policy-making processes, and effective communication strategies.
Understanding Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the legal and ethical aspects of lobbying. This includes understanding the Lobbying Disclosure Act, state-specific regulations, and any registration requirements necessary to practice lobbying legally.

2. Gain Relevant Experience
Internships: Secure internships in government, political campaigns, or advocacy groups. This provides practical experience and exposure to legislative processes and policy development.
Entry-Level Positions: Consider starting in roles related to government affairs, such as a legislative aide or a policy analyst. These positions can provide direct experience with the intricacies of law-making and the opportunity to build a network in political and legislative circles.

3. Develop a Network and Join Professional Organizations
Networking: Build relationships with key stakeholders in the industry, including politicians, policymakers, and other lobbyists. Networking can provide opportunities to join lobbying firms or start independent practice.
Professional Organizations: Join organizations such as the American League of Lobbyists or similar groups. These organizations offer resources, training, and networking opportunities that are crucial for professional development and staying informed about changes in lobbying practices and regulations.

By following these steps, you can build a solid foundation and progressively work your way into a successful career in lobbying. Each step not only enhances your skills and knowledge but also expands your professional network, which is essential in this field.
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Dayna’s Answer

You’re probably going to want a law or public policy graduate degree after college. Then you’ll want an internship with a politician or interest group.
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Madan’s Answer

I agree with most of the answers above, but I think it's useful to give you some context.

You can become a lobbyist in 5 different ways:
1. Internships for a lobbying firm,
2. Through politics (internship, or working as a aide),
3. Later in your career you shift from another public affairs role or management role,
4. As a subject matter expert (for example a telecoms expert who becomes a lobbyist),
5. After working as a civil servant,

Why would you want to be a Lobbyist? Because it's a really cool job where you get to be at the frontlines of all political, social, and technology related issues, you get paid in the 1% (without being exploited like investment bankers and big firm lawyers - they get 150k + salaries but work crazy hours). Also as a lobbyist you get to go to really cool events almost every month "receptions". These events always have free champaign (or other booze) and food. Most of the time they are in beautiful locations.

Lastly you learn so much! Being a lobbyist (or public affairs/government affairs professional) is a strategy related job.

My suggestion? Get a job in a big lobbying firm like APCO, Fleishmanhillard, FTI, or equivalent. These firms will send you all over the world, and when you want you can just settle down in some country.

Otherwise, I'd also suggest looking in Europe to start your career, so you get more interesting experiences.
For Brussels - EU capital - you can check https://eujobs.co or euractiv jobs website - linkedin also has some, but you want to work for a smaller consultancy or trade association - it's easier to get in and you get to do more things. In london there is https://lobbyinglondon.com and prweekly.
Most big lobbying hubs have a dedicated job board.

Madan recommends the following next steps:

Get a degree (obviously)
Do a summer internship (check my suggestions)
Decide if you want to do this - or try some other profession
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