How to have fun at work - and it involves politicians
By Andrew Koubaridis
Surprising way to have fun at work - and it involves politicians
When you’re thinking of the fun things you can do at work, what springs to mind?
Chances are government engagement isn’t the first thing you thought of, but it can be fun, and it should be. The more you enjoy it, the more impact you will have - and that will have a flow on effect to your organisation.
Government engagement expert Neil Pharaoh, Co-Founder of Tanck, spoke at the Community Transport Organisation conference in Orange, NSW, this week about the core things an organisation needs to engage with government successfully. Some are obvious, some are less so, but all are actions that can be taken immediately.
Tanck has helped organisations raise over $2 billion for clients since it was formed, but not all wins are funding – others are policy gains that have led to a dramatic improvement in the lives of Australians.
“Successful and effective advocacy will help shape policy conversations, and build sustained influence,” Neil said.
Neil drew on his extensive experience leading social sector organisations through complex political landscapes to inform conference attendees of the five key groups to engage with.
“The thing to remember is other organisations are engaging with government. They might not be rivals in the traditional sense, as you could be the only major player in your space, but there is only a limited amount of money governments have at their disposal,” he said.
“There are a lot of organisations wanting that funding, or to make a great impression on the Minister or other politicians, or whatever it is you are seeking. It doesn’t matter what sector you are in; overall it is very contested.”
Neil’s conference address gave practical examples of steps an organisation can take to start their government engagement journey, and he outlined the three-phase approach Tanck uses with its clients.
“Our approach is about making government engagement structural, systemic and ongoing,” he said.
Neil also shed light on how government engagement, like what Tanck does, is very different to lobbying.
“It’s one of the things we get asked the most at Tanck. It’s interesting speaking to organisations who have used lobbyists and hearing about the disappointing long-term results they’ve had.”
Neil showed the conference how government engagement can be embedded through an organisation, making it something the entire team can help with.
“It’s everyone’s responsibility and we all have a role to play,” Neil said.
Tanck offers advisory services in government engagement, advocacy, stakeholder strategy, and communications.
We share our political expertise and government experience so you can achieve your funding and policy goals.
