A lobbyist is paid by an organization to promote the organization’s positions to federal and state legislatures and, less frequently, to administrative agencies. Lobbyists may also work to change public opinion through advertising campaigns or by influencing “opinion leaders” or pundits, thereby creating a climate for the desired change. Many lobbyists are lawyers who have served in federal or state government (usually in legislative roles); because lobbyists depend on their personal relationships with legislative members, their staffs, and agency officials, prior government experience is often a prerequisite for this type of work.

Day-to-Day Activities

Prepare and present information to legislative members, their staffs, and/or agency officials.

Assist in formulating legislative strategy.

Arrange testimony for legislative hearings.

Arrange and attend face-to-face meetings with legislative members, their staffs, and/or agency officials.

Create grassroots support for legislative or administrative change.

Work with advocates and interest groups to advance good legislation or alter bad legislation.

Practice Settings

Labor Unions

Nonprofit and Legal Services Organizations

Skill Set Required

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Ability to absorb information quickly, then explain it succinctly

Ability to work in a fast-paced, sometimes pressured environment