7-Step Advocacy Method

Step 3 Position

How to build the right positions

Influencing public policy and politics requires you to engage early, to know your audience and to communicate clear messages. You track the shifting constellations of influential stakeholders on key priorities. You continuously update key messages, arguments, documents, evidence, data and other materials. Mapping and engaging in this unstable environment is a fundamental for effective influence.

Quality data is the bedrock of positioning. Collecting data can:

  • Help you manage resources and expectations by identifying the dominant positions on your issue in advance. It allows you to determine if your issue is winnable or unwinnable.

  • Allow you to micro-target swing votes e.g. the undecideds you identified in your stakeholder mapping. It enables you to identify the undecided votes you absolutely need.

Links to Support Materials