For associations with state advocacy goals and objectives, there’s no better source for policy resources, advocacy connections, and vital insights on state-level policies and legislation than organizations of state government officials. Relationships with organizations such as the Council of State Chambers, the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), and the U.S. Conference of Mayors are a critical element of any comprehensive government relations strategy.

How can you leverage these groups to influence policy outcomes? Consider these strategies from several association GR professionals.

Take inventory. When the American Hotel and Lodging Association wanted to improve the legislative climate around important lodging issues, its vice president of state and local government affairs, Troy Flanagan, looked closely at the ways in which AHLA interacts with NCSL, various state attorneys general organizations, and other influential groups. His goal: to help these groups craft better policies and model legislation related to the tax treatment of short-term rentals and other policy issues. He also ensured that AHLA staff understood how those organizations address key industry matters, that they were engaging with the groups’ relevant staff and task forces, and that they were attending smaller events that allow for deeper engagement on issues and stronger relationship building. Flanagan recommends this kind of internal audit for any association with state advocacy goals and objectives.

Access affiliates. In her work with various trade associations, Megan Kueck made up for the lack of an on-the-ground lobbyist by gaining entree to state-level affiliates of the nationwide organizations with whom she previously worked. The affiliates provided key intelligence and access to lawmakers that helped Megan achieve legislative success on behalf of her associations.

Return the favor. Evan Hoffman, director of state government affairs at the Organization for International Investment, forged relationships at a wide range of state organizations to help OFII determine which of these groups brought value to its state relations objectives. OFII worked with NCSL, the National Governors Association, the Republican Governors Association, and the Democratic Governors Association to help craft panel discussions and policy forums that highlighted the importance of foreign-direct investment to the states. At the same time, he positioned OFII as a reciprocal resource to legislators, governors, and state economic development offices. Keeping these professionals abreast of important issues affecting your membership is useful to them, too.

Joining state organizations is not enough. Look for ways to engage more deeply with these groups in settings where they address specific policy issues important to your members.

If you’re looking to strengthen your association’s connections to state organizations, consider these additional tips:

• Move beyond membership. Joining state organizations is not enough. Look for ways to engage more deeply with these groups in settings where they address specific policy issues important to your members.
• Be prepared. Form relationships before the need for engagement arises.
• Filter if necessary. Use peer-to-peer advice and communities of practice to determine which organizations are worth the investment of time and resources.
• Invite members to take part in panel discussions and events in their area that feature state-level officials. This demonstrates the immediate value of your association’s relationship with the state organization while policy and legislative efforts are in progress.