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Episode 111

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Published on:

29th Nov 2023

Ep 111: From Lobbyist to Congressional Relations Specialist: Michael McQuerry's Journey

Guest Michael McQuerry shares extensive experience in communications and legislative roles as a lobbyist & Congressional Relations Specialist for various organizations.

Michael McQuerry is a current Capitol Hill Communications Director for Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett and has over 20 years of communications and legislative experience. He has worked for four Members of Congress. He has also worked at the Department of Transportation and also as a Lobbyist here in Washington, DC over the past 20 years. Michael graduated from Jackson State University (Jackson, MS) in May 1993 with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science.

As the Senior Legislative Assistant for Congresswoman Barbara Rose Collins of Michigan he primarily handled postal, education, transportation, children, veteran’s affairs, judiciary, immigration and crime issues. He then worked for Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson of Texas. As her Senior Legislative Assistant. Michael contacted and conferred with Members of Congress and staff, and other holders of public office, in reference to legislation favorable to client's interest as a lobbyist for Holland and Knight, LLP. Later Michael focused on lobbying for the Association of American Railroads (AAR) as their Manager of Congressional Affairs. Michael then began working for the U.S. Department of Transportation (FTA) as a Congressional Relations Specialist where he prepared Op-Ed’s, press releases, speeches, newsletters and talking points for the Administrator of the Federal Transit Administration. He then went on to work for as the Communications Director for Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas.

Michael then served as the Special Assistant to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) in the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer for the United States House of Representatives. Michael then returned to the Office of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas as the Senior Advisor and Communications Director. In October of 2016 Michael went to work for Make Room as Director of Advocacy Communications.

Michael currently works for Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett as her Communications Director. Michael is one of the co-host of one of he most exciting Podcast out there – Hip-Politics – which is a discussion/fusion of hip hop and politics in America.

Main Takeaways:

00:00:06 Podcast focuses on executive career advancement.

00:08:26 Access and relationships are crucial.

00:10:25 DC is a competitive and transient city.

00:15:02 Political theater is scripted and strategic.

00:21:33 Importance of effective communication.

00:24:24 Hire young, tech-savvy communicators.

00:32:22 Take time to slow down.

00:34:21 Lobbyists have multiple interests.

00:41:48 Take chances and seek advice.

Purchase your copy of "Relationships that Work" on Amazon today at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CD2KJX17?ref_=pe_3052080_276849420

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The Executive Appeal
Insights From Influencers
Want to be a Rock Star leader? Want to know the keys to thoughtful leadership from America’s top private and public sector leaders?

Climb the corporate ladder by tuning in to The Executive Appeal, an inspirational and education podcast hosted by motivational speaker, leadership mentor, and author Alex Tremble. Enjoy leadership tips, laughs, and life lessons exclusively on The Executive Appeal found across all major podcast platforms.

About the Host:
Alex D. Tremble is an award-winning speaker, author, and leadership expert with over a decade of experience coaching and advising some of America’s most senior level government leaders. Alex teaches ambitious leaders how to gain the influence strategic relationships needed to solve complex challenges AND reach their personal career goals.

About your host

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Alex D. Tremble

Alex D. Tremble is an award-winning speaker, author, and leadership expert who has over a decade of experience coaching and advising some of our nation’s most senior level government leaders. He is also the host of The Alex Tremble Show, which is focused on providing ambitious leaders with the leadership and career advancement skills required to excel as senior and executive leaders.

Alex began his career managing three government-wide senior leadership development programs, and quickly went on to establish the Tremble Influence Academy, while publishing two bestselling books ("Reaching Senior Leadership: 10 Growth Strategies Every Government Leader Should Know” and “The GPS Guide to Success”) geared towards helping leaders gain influence and attain career success. Alex is a Leadership Center for Excellence 40 under 40 honoree and is passionate and committed to helping our leaders across the world reach their highest potential; personally, and professionally. In addition to his speaking, he serves as the Chief Culture Officer for America’s second largest national conservation corps; American Conservation Experience. Alex received his Bachelor's degree in sociology and psychology from William Penn University and his Master's degree in industrial and organizational psychology from the University of Baltimore. Please visit AlexTremble.com to gain the tools and strategies you need to reach your leadership and career goals.