2 The Power of Positive Advocacy We often think of advocacy as “fighting” for a cause. While it’s true that advocacy can certainly be a challenge at times, it does not have to be a battle. An adversarial, “us against them” approach to advocacy can cause each side to become entrenched in their position, unwilling to consider other points of view. Positive advocacy is an approach that focuses on similarities before differences. Using specific techniques, it helps to create change through peaceful, nonadversarial means. To remember these techniques, remember “Friends Receive BetterThan Foes.” Find Common Ground Finding common ground means identifying the points on which you and the person you are speaking to agree. What is motivating the person you are speaking to? What are their interests in the situation? What can you find in common? Start your discussion there to establish the points on which you see eye-to-eye. Reason, Don’t Argue In order to refute their stance, you must listen to their stance. Carefully consider their point of view, and analyze the strength of their position.Apply logic to distinguish truth from the appearance of truth. Be Persuasive, Not Pushy Appeal to their senses of fairness, integrity, compassion, or healthy self-interest. Do not attempt to manipulate, intimidate, or shame. Be motivating. Thank Them Even if (or especially if) you do not get the result you would prefer, show a genuine appreciation for a person’s willingness to discuss the issue. Keep the lines of communication open. Follow Up If you are awaiting a decision or action, politely check the status. If things haven’t gone your way, don’t give up. Friends Receive Better Than Foes F - Find Common R - Reason, don’t B - Be Persuasive T - Thank them F - Follow up ground argue not pushy TIP: Don’t just get frustrated when you hear the same old excuses, such as “That’s just our policy.” Be prepared to counteract excuses in a nonadversarial way. For example, you could respond, “I understand that you have to abide by the policy. But who can grant exceptions to that policy, and can I speak to that person, please?”