Lobbyist
Comprehensive Sites
Government Innovators NetworkFrom Harvard University, this portal is a repository of ideas and examples of government innovation. Access webcasts and online events, find top news stories, and training tools and education. Global themes are organized at the menu at the left of the page, where you can learn about activism in technology, social services, the environment, and justice.
Heritage FoundationFind 10 transformational initiatives of this organization, including education, family, healthcare, and the environment. Access each department to locate experts in the selected field, or find out where this organization stands on many issues. Go to the site’s blog to voice your opinion, and learn about the latest research and upcoming events affecting both domestic and international political issues.
Lobbyists.infoCreated specifically for Washington’s lobbying community, this site provides stories that are updated daily. Find a host of free resources here to help you get acquainted with legislative issues, including ways to expand your network of contacts, enhance coalition-building skills, and know who is representing whom in the lobbying community. Whether you have an interest in working as a lobbyist in a law firm, for a corporation, as a consultant, a fundraiser, or in a government office, this site is a valuable resource.
OpenSecrets.org: LobbyingThe lobbying index of OpenSecrets lets you in on total lobbying spending, the top lobbying firms, ranked sectors, industries, agencies, and news and analysis in politics.
SourceWatchA project of the Center for Media and Democracy, this site has produced a directory of people, organizations, and groups that shape public agenda. Learn about industry experts and public relations professionals who work to influence public opinion on behalf of corporations and the government. This is a wiki site, with more than 36,000 articles for your perusal.
Occupational Titles
Lobbyist
Activist
Director of Communications
Government Relations Specialist
Legislative Assistant
Political Activist
Political Scientist
Salary Levels
PayScale: LobbyistFree salary information is available at this page, which combines details on median salary for a lobbyist, with information according to years of experience and by precise job title. The median salary by employer type is also displayed at the page, which has connections to further information on salary by city, by certification, industry, gender, degree, or major.
Professional Organizations
American League of LobbyistsThe Young Leadership Network offers support for students by a group of government relations professionals to help you grow in your career. Find out about upcoming events here or access the site’s job board to learn about potential opportunities. Resources for the public include career information, details on state lobbying organizations, and grassroots lobbying and coalition building.
National Right to LifeWith the goal of guaranteeing a right to free speech, this organization lets you stay informed on how to protect your First Amendment rights. Click on the legislation link, or access media myths and brochures on important issues.
Top 25 Lobbying GroupsFortune’s list of the top 25 lobbying groups includes links to associations and information on the method used to come up with the frontrunners. You can also connect to the best organizations to work for, the most admired, and other leadership categories.
Licensing & Certification
American League of Lobbyists: Lobbying Certification ProgramCreated to fill a void in the lobbying profession, this certification sets a standard of expertise for future lobbyists to help survive in Washington’s complex political environment. Take a look at the schedule and information on registration for these programs.
Job Opportunity Sources
Indeed.com: LobbyistSeveral other titles exist for this career, including government relations consultant. However, you can get a list of a couple of hundred lobbyist positions across the U.S. from this site. Look at positions available in a variety of different industries, and learn about salary and job requirements.
OpenSecrets.org: Internship OpportunitiesAn internship opportunity exists with this organization, which strives to inform, empower, and advocate for a responsive government. Learn about the application process and how you can get involved.
Publications
OpenSecrets.org: PublicationsMany books and publications are available here free of charge via online versions.
U.S. Senate Office of Public RecordsA searchable database of registered lobbyists is found here, which offers records for public inspection filed with the Secretary of State. Look at Congressional records, bills and resolutions, treaties, appropriations bills, public disclosure, the legislative process, and active legislation.
Online Forums & Blogs
Heritage Foundation BlogsThe Foundry blog highlights conservative Heritage Foundation initiatives, including research and education to promote public their policies. Links, heritage polls, and blogs across a multitude of topics are found.
OpenSecrets.org: Capital Eye BlogNews and analysis from OpenSecrets.org includes this forum on the largest lobbying organizations and activities occurring today. Talk about the influence of lobbying, learn about specific industries relationship to Washington, access details on Political Action Committees (PACs), or go to the monthly blog archives.
Sunlight FoundationThe Sunlight Foundation intends to use the Internet as a way to shed light on the interplay of money, lobbying, and government influence. Find lawmaker profiles, investigative resources, or go to the blog to get together with others interested in the same political issues you are.
