Deciphering Lobbying as a Public Affairs Strategy: Insights From Canadian Ministers and Political Advisors

Abstract

Lobbying is a core element of a firm's public affairs strategy and can help it gain strategic advantages and improve performance. This study examines political actors' perceptions of lobbying's role in shaping public policy and influencing government decisions. Through elite interviews with 30 former ministers and senior political staff, this study seeks to understand why political actors engage with corporate lobbyists. The interviewees observed that businesses can help governments strengthen policymaking and test the real-world applicability of proposed initiatives. These findings offer insights into how companies can effectively deploy lobbying resources, while scientifically validating commonly known best practices.