Government engagement is often seen as a matter of the right message delivered to the right person at the right time. That’s true — but it’s not enough. Complex decisions inside government rarely turn on a single pitch or meeting. They unfold over time, shaped by competing interests, constrained by systems, and driven by opportunity as much as logic.
Government engagement is often seen as a matter of the right message delivered to the right person at the right time. That’s true — but it’s not enough. Complex decisions inside government rarely turn on a single pitch or meeting. They unfold over time, shaped by competing interests, constrained by systems, and driven by opportunity as much as logic.
At frank, we use a structured approach to help clients build influence and unlock outcomes. It’s based on John Kotter’s 8-step change model — adapted to the realities of navigating government.
We don’t use this model because it’s fashionable. We use it because it works.
Why structure matters
Getting a meeting with a minister or senior official is only the first step. Too many organisations fall into endless “meeting loops” – briefings, follow-ups, committee updates – without ever progressing toward a decision. Even teams familiar with government processes can find themselves stuck in this cycle.
A clear, step-by-step framework ensures you:
- Break out of the meeting loop: Turn conversations into concrete actions and next steps
- Align internally before external engagement: Prevent mixed messages or half-baked asks
- Sequence efforts for impact: Use early wins to build credibility and momentum
- Maintain forward motion: Stay on track through shifting priorities, political changes, and bureaucratic complexity
Rather than fire-hosing contacts with slides, structure creates sustained momentum and real progress.
Frank’s 8-Step Influence Approach
Inspired by Kotter, adapted for how government actually works
- Form a Strategic Vision
Align internally on a clear, credible vision with public value. - Create a Sense of Urgency
Build momentum by identifying shared opportunities and risks. - Build a Guiding Coalition
Identify and engage the right decision-makers and their influencers. - Communicate the Change Vision
Sequence messages and engagement points to build support. - Remove Barriers to Action
Pre-empt and work around institutional or political roadblocks. - Generate Short-Term Wins
Celebrate visible progress to build credibility and sustain momentum. - Sustain Acceleration
Maintain activity and focus even when government becomes noisy or distracted. - Institute Change
Lock in commitments and keep partners accountable — especially in the lead-up to elections.
It’s about influence that lasts
We believe influence isn’t about who you know — it’s about how you work. Our approach is grounded in professionalism, openness, and a shared commitment to creating public value.
We help clients build trusted relationships with government by being clear, consistent, and credible. That means turning good ideas into practical strategies, sequencing the work, and staying the course. It’s not about shortcuts — it’s about building momentum the right way.
Our 8-step approach provides the structure to do that. It helps organisations lead with clarity and engage with confidence — creating outcomes that are good for our clients and good for the communities they serve.
