How to fail your advocacy campaign

Although some guides tell you what to do to succeed in your policy endeavors, little explore the via negativa: what not to do. That's what we are doing today, with examples from the crypto industry.

How not to fail is probably as important as how to succeed. In fact, I’m convinced it’s even more important as reputational damage can impact future campaigns and decrease the positive outcome of later attempts.

So let’s have a look at what NOT to do. I challenge you to do better on your next advocacy campaign.

Don’t involve the general public

There is nothing more impactful than ground-up political campaigns. You should certainly avoid using this leverage, or else you would gain leverage on politicians (we’re trying our best to fail, here).

You don’t want your campaign to feel like it represents the will of the people. It is certain that elected officials are not interested in it.

Don’t launch a European Citizen’s Initiative. Do not ask your local branches or sections to participate in your campaign and relay to the citizens the solution that you provide. Do not ask Think tanks and specialists to give a hand in collecting data, spreading your words, and promoting your efforts.