cybersecurity policy tweetstorm incoming ...
i'm seeing people in my space get all worked up - and making a mockery of - the USAG's cybersecurity taskforce announcement this morning. to that end, if you really want to make a difference, a few insights & thoughts about DC policy work
key background point: remember everyone has an agenda, most of it hidden from you, that seeks to grow their power and influence, and maybe fatten their wallet. and these folks are professional politicians, you're probably a newcomer.
so when you make an ask, your words may fall on deaf ears (with hollow promises), or be twisted to support an agenda you would otherwise disagree with.
also, remember that every recent (20+ years) administration has tried something like this. usually bolstered by the idea that the previous people were dummies and that's why they failed. the world's a bigger challenge than you think.
have a concrete ask, what you want them to do and that's feasible and in their sphere of responsibility. having a specific thing you want from them is a huge help, it shows you did your homework and gave this professional thought.
be succinct in that ask, too, but be prepared to go in depth and discuss the details, how it relates to ongoing work and historical authority, because you can bet the other person knows it better than you.
some of the best ways to get involved in the policy process is to engage your reps and senators and understand what's before them: legislation, funding choices, their committees (and spheres of influence), etc.
if you're going to do this, see if your employer or professional organization has a standing policy arm, many do. get involved there, learn the ropes and make connections, learn the lingo and landscape.
look for work in policy shops around DC, think tanks and NGOs etc. cyber's continually a hot topic and there's always room for smart people, put forth the effort to show you're one of them.
if you're so inclined, try and get a job as a staffer for your senator or congressperson and help them become smart in cyber. figure out their needs and help fill them, help them lead and make smart moves.
idle chatter on twitter or mailing lists very rarely gets attention and a seat at the table, even less so if it's just snark. putting forth sustained effort to go to the policymakers and engage them is more likely to make a difference.
DC is home to some of our nation's smartest & hardest working, "oh, so this is where all the smart people went", so bring your A game, do your homework, and be tireless, curious, and ready to align with the right people when you find them.
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