Building effective strategies with public affairs consulting

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Public affairs and advocacy is a practice that has become indispensable to association leaders in their attempts to represent their industry, build coalitions, steer alliances, activate communities and engage with policymakers. Unlike traditional consulting - which might focus on operational improvements or financial outcomes - it targets the intersection of policy, public perception, and strategic relationships.

Adopting a strategy that includes it can be particularly valuable for associations, where success is defined by more than simply adapting to legislative changes. It helps associations influence policy, strengthen stakeholder relationships, advocate for member interests, and generate non-dues revenues while boosting credibility and long-term impact.

For those tasked with leading an association, a carefully crafted public affairs strategy supported by expert insights can amplify advocacy efforts and enhance standing. As such, many turn to expert public affairs consultants who bring with them a wealth of specialised knowledge that allows them to help organisations grow.

In this article, we take a closer look at the subject, shining a light on the components and benefits of public affairs consultation, as well as what steps to include in your strategy.

The benefits of public affairs consulting for association leaders

Associations looking to advance their advocacy efforts, build their reputations and ultimately fulfil their mission can enjoy many benefits from the right kind of public affairs consulting assistance. Here are just a few of the advantages on offer when partnering with experts such as Logos - an MCI Group company.

Anticipating & addressing changes earlier - with a public affairs expert in your corner, you can spot potential legislative and regulatory issues sooner rather than later, meaning that problems are dealt with much more efficiently.
Better engagement with policymakers and stakeholders - Consultants are able to facilitate more meaningful connections with policymakers and influential voices. This ensures that associations build strong relationships that support their mission and help them achieve their goals.
More favourable policy outcomes - with access to public affairs consulting expertise, associations can better position themselves within policy discussions, improving their ability to shape outcomes that positively impact their members and the communities they represent.
Clearer, more consistent messaging - Consultants work with associations to create messaging that is both compelling and aligned with member values, ensuring clear, consistent communication across all platforms and to all stakeholders.
Effective crisis management - During difficult times, consultants can be invaluable in helping associations respond swiftly and appropriately to protect their reputation and maintain trust among members and the public.
Relationships that reinforce sector standing - Through targeted outreach and relationship-building strategies, public affairs consultants can help associations solidify their standing within their sector, enhancing their credibility and influence.
Generating non-dues revenues - through strategic partnerships and sponsorships public affairs experts can help associations identify and secure partnerships, sponsorships, and grants aligned with their mission, creating valuable revenue streams.

With these benefits on offer, public affairs consulting equips associations to become adaptable and resilient. Beyond simply reacting to challenges, associations can proactively drive meaningful change, foster stronger member relationships, and secure sustainable growth.

What are the key components of an effective public affairs strategy?

An effective public affairs strategy relies on several critical components, with each one being tailored to maximise advocacy efforts and deepen member engagement. Let’s take a moment to see what they entail in closer detail.

Stakeholder mapping

Mapping forms the foundation of any successful strategy. By identifying and understanding influential stakeholders (policymakers, industry leaders, media figures, and member groups) associations can target their efforts much more precisely.

Mapping stakeholders allows associations to prioritise who to engage with and establish stronger relationships that support their more general advocacy goals. It was a practice used by the MCI team in making the 2024 World Energy Congress a roaring success.

Objective setting

Another crucial element in public affairs consulting is setting your organisation’s objectives. What we’re talking about here are clear, measurable goals that align with both the association's mission and members’ priorities to enable a focused approach.

Whether it’s securing legislative changes, influencing industry standards, or raising public awareness, well-defined goals will keep your strategy cohesive and results-driven.

Tailored communication

Associations, particularly those that operate globally, can be regularly communicating with diverse audiences. That’s why any successful public affairs strategy should include targeted messaging for each key audience demographic.

Not only does your messaging have to account for cultural differences but also the kind of information that is to be shared. For instance, policymakers might need data-driven insights, whereas members may prefer updates that emphasise how advocacy efforts impact them.

Policy analysis and monitoring

The legislative landscape for associations is ever-changing, which is why public affairs consulting experts also focus on policy analysis and monitoring. By regularly tracking policy developments and industry trends, associations can anticipate regulatory changes that may affect their members and adjust their strategy accordingly. Staying informed ensures that associations remain proactive rather than reactive.

Crisis preparedness

From time to time, organisations may have to effectively ‘roll with the punches’ and deal with a crisis while doing everything they can to protect their reputation. As such, a comprehensive public affairs strategy will include crisis plans to handle unexpected issues or public relations challenges. With clear protocols in place, it’s possible to manage crises swiftly, minimise the damage and maintain your credibility.

Steps for building an effective strategy with public affairs consulting

When your organisation is looking to build an effective public affairs strategy, there are clear, deliberate steps involved in ensuring that it’s congruent with your overall mission and evolving environment. Those steps include the following.

Step 1: Environmental assessment - The initial step for your public affairs strategy should be to take stock of the political, social and economic trends that could impact your goals. This analysis includes aspects like current regulations, public sentiment, and industry developments.
Step 2: a Customised strategic approach - Once in possession of your assessment data, your public affairs consulting partner will then develop a tailored strategy that’s suitable for your organisation’s unique needs, obstacles and goals. This approach might include legislative advocacy, public awareness efforts, or stakeholder relationship-building.
Step 3: Continuous engagement and evaluation - The industry landscape is constantly changing, which is why it’s vital to continuously engage with stakeholders, policymakers and members to keep your strategy relevant. To the same end, monitoring and evaluation of the performance of your approach is also a vital part of the process.

Naturally, this is a very brief overview of the kind of strategy a public affairs consulting agency will help you create, suffice to say there’s much more detail to cover.

Partnering with the right public affairs consulting agency

When you partner with the right public affairs consulting agency you get a very real, tangible strategic advantage that allows you to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape. With expert guidance, associations are better equipped to navigate policy complexities, strengthen member relations, and generate opportunities for sustainable growth.

By implementing a well-rounded strategy, associations can foster meaningful change that resonates across all stakeholders. Perhaps the most crucial decision to make is which agency to partner with and at MCI, we have a proven track record in delivering results for our clients across our full array of engagement services.

To talk to our team, all you need to do is head to our contact form and fill out your company information and details of your project. As soon as we receive your enquiry, we’ll get back to you as soon as we possibly can.

MCI Content Team

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