10 Tips for Building Effective Coalitions

As Shakespeare wrote in The Tempest, “misery 
acquaints a man with strange bedfellows.”

This is the time of year when reporters scratch their heads and find themselves quoting Shakespeare. A governor or mayor announces a new initiative — or decides to block a proposal — and unlikely alliances form. Suddenly, groups that fought vigorously last session are issuing joint advocacy papers.

‘Tis the season for political coalition building.

Done right, a coalition — a temporary alliance of groups or individuals who unite in pursuit of a common goal — can be a highly effective, powerful political force. Done poorly, it can be an expensive disaster.

Below are 10 tips for building well-managed, effective coalitions:

1. Count to 100 before reaching out

You may be ticked off about what the mayor said in his policy speech, but don’t call an old nemesis in the heat of the moment to suggest an alliance. Sleep on it, so the drama and emotion can subside a bit before you reach out.

2. Vet your partner(s)

The last thing you need, in fighting for your cause, is to deal with a sideshow when your coalition partner is indicted or sued. Also be aware if there is a lurking issue that would allow your common foe to shatter your coalition.

3. Build internal buy-in

Proactively communicate internally to explain the reason for the coalition. If your own employees and members aren’t on board, their animus toward your newfound ally could undermine the coalition’s efforts.

4. Keep the size manageable

The bigger the coalition, the more credible and powerful you can be. But if you go big, be sure there’s a solid system in place to herd the cats and maintain message discipline.

5. Agree on a plan

A must. It is essential to collaborate on a document that will:

• set your mission;
• define your issue and clarify goals and objectives;
• determine each partner’s investment in the campaign and allocate resources;
• clarify expectations (how will coalition members communicate with each other? Who will speak publicly for the group?); and
• finalize a tactical plan with clear responsibilities (Whom are you trying to influence? How will you influence them? What is your message and how will you communicate that message?)

6. Gather data and expertise

For the strongest possible message, line up experts and gather compelling data to help the coalition make its case.

7. Prepare for tension

Go into the partnership knowing that you still may have disagreements on other issues while working in concert to advance this one priority. Expect it, deal with it and keep your eyes on the prize.

8. Provide care and feeding

Stick to the plan, and check in with regular meetings and conference calls.

9. Celebrate victories

Take time to savor the small victories you experience along the way. When you nab a new key supporter or place a great Op-Ed, pick up the phone or send a congratulatory e-mail to recognize the team’s efforts.

10. Know when to say goodbye

The beauty of a coalition is that it’s temporary! The care and feeding can stop when your goal is achieved.

As Shakespeare wrote in As You Like It: “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances; and one man in his time plays many parts.”

— Sarah Boggess