Rule Number Two: Have the Proper Allies. Harry Potter doesn't work alone. He relies on a host of others, including, of course, his good friends Ron and Hermione. Each has special skills they bring to bear in difficult circumstances. For example, situations requiring courage, loyalty and a knowledge of wizard chess fall within Ron's purview. Hermione often finds herself in charge of research, analytical thinking and "difficult magic." Harry, of course, is in charge of all things heroic.

Allies and coalitions are essential to any successful advocacy effort. Different groups bring different skills to the table – some may have great mailing lists, others may have good PR connections and still others may have strong connections to unlikely allies (such as lawmakers on the other side of the aisle). Just as Harry Potter recognized the futility of "going it alone," so, too, should you. Remember: help comes to those who ask.