5 Minutes with a Staffer, featuring Andrew Huckel

''It's not a job, it's a calling.'  It's a well-worn statement used to describe a hundred different occupations, when in reality it only justifiably applies to a few. Taking up a role as a political staffer is one of those jobs.

In the coming months Advoc8 will be sitting down with these professionals to get deeper insights into what makes these important gatekeepers tick, as well as how advocates can best engage with them.

We kick things off this week with former NSW Government Chief of Staff Andrew Huckel.

Following years working for industry groups and corporates, including the NSW Farmers Association and Bankwest, Andrew took up a position as Chief of Staff to the Hon. Duncan Gay, Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight and Leader of the Government in the Legislative Council of NSW.

Andrew now works with a major transport company, however his time as a Chief of Staff has given him a unique perspective on dealing with government.

Andrew, thanks for taking the time to speak with us. What are some of the effective things advocates can do to help deliver their key message to a Minister's office?

Ministers and their senior staff regularly deal with a dozen 'urgent' matters each day '“ everything from requests from government agencies (including preparation for critical, time-sensitive cabinet and budget meetings), media enquiries, parliamentary and electoral duties, and important stakeholder meetings. If you keep your message clear and concise, you are giving them a gift. Less is more.

 Eradicate jargon and acronyms from your presentation '“ plain English please. Too many technical terms just put staffers off '“ you alienate the very people you are attempting to influence.

Focus on what is important about your industry/business to the wider community (e.g. creating jobs, increasing exports, delivering better transport links, improving health or education outcomes etc). Real life case studies are a must.

Constantly ask yourself this question '“ why should a politician elevate my issue or proposal above that of others?

In your experience, what are some of the most common pitfalls for advocates in meeting with Ministerial staffers? Are there any fatal mistakes in terms of harming a relationship with the Ministers office?

You may be an expert in your industry, but don't assume or expect the Minister or his staff to know every intricate detail of your business.

That said, never underestimate a Minister or his staff. Each day they deal with 'captains of industry' and are privy to rare, and at times sensitive information. This provides them with deep and unique insights into industry developments and trends - insights you may not have, or ideas beyond your current knowledge or experience.

Show respect and always consider the greater good '“ politicians can sniff self-interest a mile away. Most politicians have high levels of emotional intelligence; they are good with people '“ that's how they got elected in the first place!

Remember, politicians weren't elected by their constituents to service your particular need(s) '“ their job is to serve 'the many'.

How important is building a relationship over time with a Minister's office?

Government ministers develop, introduce and help enforce the laws of the land, with a bit of help from friendly cross-benchers.

Ignore ministerial offices and their decision-making powers at your peril.

 If you're not seen, you're not heard.

Are Ministers and Ministerial staff willing to do site visits to industry projects and operations?

You bet! Every site-visit represents an opportunity to learn more than your political opponents, to connect closer to the community; not to mention a potential announcement.

Of all this, if there was one thing you would encourage advocates to get right every time when dealing with a Minister's office, what would it be?

Being the son of a farmer, I was always told to ''know your livestock'. Take time to understand and appreciate the background, history and interests of the politicians you hope to influence. Find areas of common interest.