Friday, September 24, 2010

where'd the summer go?

Well, I guess it's been quite a while since I posted. Thanks to everyone who has dropped a line with questions and my apologies for being a little lax in my postings. I probably won't post as often until session starts, but I thought I should at least drop in since it's been so long.

In reading my last post, I lost my fourth client, but as of yesterday, I picked up another client, so I'm back up to four. This one is a little different since it's a life science company and outside of the primary focus for my firm. All of my other clients and my focus to this point has been on the insurance and financial services industry.

The reasons for my taking on this new client are several, but in no particular order they are:
1) The work they need done is a fun challenge
2) The primary contact I have at the company is a friend of mine who I respect a great deal
3) I felt like I needed to diversify my firm a little since I fear federal regulation/take over of insurance so I am not 100% confident insurance will stay a state-regulated product for the duration of my career

The work this new client is wanting deals with my selecting and managing a federal contract lobbyist for them, crafting a long-term government affairs plan and some long-term business goals. The work I'll be doing has some involvement with the insurance industry, so it's not completely outside my wheelhouse, but at least the company's main focus is not insurance, so I"m quite pleased.

It's quite a rush to get that next client. As I've said before, it's not just about the financial gain. I like helping solve government issues for groups. It's like putting together a puzzle. It's not rocket science, but it's cool when I can see the path to fixing a problem and to a client/prospect, it's like I'm Moses leading them through the desert. Of course I recognize there are times when I make mistakes or can't accomplish exactly what I want for the client, but that's all part of the challenge as well. It's knowing your strengths/weaknesses, allies/foes and knowing how to get the goal accomplished.

I'm very fortunate to be doing what I love. I am thankful every day I get to do what I do and be my own boss.

Keep the questions and comments coming. Good to all you students and readers who are looking at lobbying as a career change. I can't imagine doing anything I love more (expect when I retire as a fishing guide).