Grasstops advocacy involves individuals engaging directly with decision makers. This method relies on the quality of voices to bring about change. Have you ever personally picked up the phone to call a key legislator about an issue affecting our banks? Did they answer? That begs the question: How can we do better at engaging at that higher level? Grasstops advocates bring credibility, strategic influence and access — and often help open doors that grassroots advocates can walk through. A grasstops advocacy strategy isn’t just for lobbyists. In fact, as bankers, we are uniquely positioned to be grasstops advocates. We are community anchors, employers and, often, well-connected individuals. Grasstops advocacy taps into this influence to help shape policy outcomes from the top down. It’s about using your voice, your relationships and your credibility as a banker to make a direct impact. Why It Matters A multitude of regulatory or legislative issues affect bankers, such as capital requirements, consumer protection laws, anti-money laundering regulations and interest rate policies. In addition, it’s no secret that legislators have packed inboxes and receive many phone calls. Cultivating a relationship with a legislator can help your chances of having your email opened and your voice heard. Picture this: It’s the legislative session. A legislator is receiving a high volume of emails and calls. Everyone wants to talk to them, meet with them, and be heard. The legislator opens his or her email and scrolls through the names. A familiar name stands out. The legislator opens the email from the individual they know — in this case, you — thus marking the winner of the legislator’s attention. This is a classic scenario reflecting a simple truth: The attention of someone in power will be caught first by a NEBRASKA INDEPENDENT BANKER 11
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