Bridging the Gap: Building Empathy and Relationships Between Scientists and Policymakers
Turning ideas into impact starts with connection.
In an era where scientific insights are critical to addressing society’s biggest challenges—from soil health to sustainable agriculture—the bridge between researchers and policymakers is more important than ever. Yet too often, both groups find themselves standing on opposite sides of that bridge: scientists rooted in data, and policymakers navigating competing priorities and tight timelines.
Why Relationships Matter More Than Reports
Personal relationships are among the most influential factors in policymaker decision-making. Policymakers consistently say they value input from local experts when it’s clear, relevant, and timely. But trust and credibility don’t happen overnight—they’re built through small, meaningful interactions over time.
These moments don’t always look like grand policy briefings. Sometimes, they start with something simple: a quick email introducing your work, an invitation to tour a research site, or sharing a short summary of a new study that aligns with a legislator’s district priorities.
Every touchpoint is a seed planted in the soil of understanding. Over time, these seeds grow into partnerships that shape better policy for people and the planet.
Leading with Empathy: The Science of Human Connection
Empathy is one of the most powerful tool for bridging divides. Scientists are trained to seek objectivity, but policymaking is inherently human. It’s built on trust, context, and relationships.
Leading with empathy doesn’t mean compromising scientific rigor; it means acknowledging the pressures, perspectives, and responsibilities of those across the table. It means showing up not just as a subject matter expert, but as a partner who understands the realities of governance.
Effective engagement happens when authenticity outweighs advocacy. When scientists align their message with mutual interests, they create opportunities for collaboration rather than confrontation.
At the heart of it all: empathy transforms transactions into trust.
Practical Ways to Build and Sustain Policy Relationships
Like all good systems, relationship-building thrives on consistency and small, repeatable actions. Here are a few simple, high-impact ways to start:
Identify one policymaker (local, state, or federal) who overlaps with your area of expertise.
Follow their work—sign up for newsletters, review their committee assignments, and note their stated priorities.
Reach out with a 3–4 sentence email introducing yourself and your research. Offer to serve as a local expert.
Stay connected. Share relevant updates, articles, or data occasionally—not to persuade, but to be a trusted, reliable voice.
Remember: it doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be sincere.
From Empathy to Action: Making Science Human Again
When we pair evidence with empathy, we shift from talking at policymakers to working with them. We create a shared language rooted in mutual respect, curiosity, and purpose.
At RKO, this belief shapes everything we do. We exist to turn ideas into impact—through relationships built on trust, systems grounded in evidence, and strategies fueled by compassion. Because meaningful change isn’t just about the right data—it’s about the right connection.
Final Thought
The work of bridging research and policy isn’t glamorous. It’s steady, intentional, and deeply human. But that’s where the most meaningful change begins: in the quiet, consistent relationships that grow from understanding.
So this week, start small. Reach out. Listen first. You never know which conversation might plant the seed for the next great policy breakthrough.
RKO Consulting Group
Making important work happen—through empathy, evidence, and action.