A helpful list of Do’s and Don’ts for advocating to your legislators on issues.

Do…

Request a meeting, in writing or via letter or email.  Even if the meeting is prompted by a phone call, be sure to follow up for confirmation.

Be courteous and establish a good rapport with the administrative assistant and other staff in the office.  These are the gatekeepers in the office and can make or break your meeting opportunity.

Indentify yourself as a constituent or voter if this is the case.  If you are not, be sure to bring individuals who live in the district or are leaders in the community along with you to the meeting when possible.

Share personal stories on how the legislation affects your life.  These stories are much better received than theoretical or philosophical positions.

Allow time for the policy maker or staff to express their thoughts or position on the particular issue, even if it is an opposing position.

Leave a prepared document behind along with your contact information.  This must be a concise document so it increases the chances of being read.

Remember that these meetings are not only about lobbying for a particular issue but also about building a relationship.  Your policy maker may disagree on one issue but be your ally on another.  Keep the door open no matter what the outcome is.

Don’t…

Be offended if you are not able to get a meeting right away.  Depending on the timing of the issue, the session schedule and other appointments, the policy maker may not be able to meet with you as soon as you would like.

Threaten the legislator with your vote.  As much as you may want to tell them you will not vote for them if they your way on the issue, this is not a good way to develop a relationship with them.

Allow too many people to attend the meeting, especially if you are not able to control how the meeting will flow.