Technology offers more ways than ever for Americans to interact with their government, yet the turnout for the 2014 midterm elections was the lowest in 72 years. Even though citizens can read bills online, email their legislators and follow politicians on Twitter, many opt out of the political process.

But apathy isn’t an option for forward-thinking CEOs. While the business mantra is “the customer is always right,” the addendum today is, “the government is always right there.” As such it is sec...

When persuading lawmakers to simplify regulations or adopt legislation you are fighting for, as a small business you face three choices.

1. You can sit on the sidelines
2. You can petition
3. You can lobby
    

Most small businesses choose #1. You do nothing. You grumble and complain because you feel like you can't do anything.

The second option; you join an organization or trade association focused on a single industry or issue. You pay dues, sign petitions and promote your cause through the org...