tips for effective legislative advocacy
Lobbying your legislator doesn't have to be intimidating. Read on for easy tips on
how to make your voice heard!
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Spend time developing relationships with the legislative aides and other key staff members.
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Don't be offended if a legislator is unable to meet with you and requests that you meet with his/her aide or staff instead. Meeting with the legislative staff can be just as valuable as meeting directly with the legislator.
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Don't overload a personal visit or phone call with too many issues. One or two topics per contact are appropriate.
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Be courteous, remember names, and thank those who help you, both in person and with a follow up note.
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Your word is your bond. Maintain your integrity.
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Never lie or exaggerate your cause.
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Use accurate fact sheets and talking points to explain your position on an issue or proposed policy/law. Click here to view Planned Parenthood's fact sheets.
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Admit when you don't know the answer. However, always offer to find the answer and get the information to them. Follow through!
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Don't make promises you can't deliver.
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Spend time with legislators even if their position differs from yours. You may be able to lessen the intensity of his/her opposition and perhaps change the legislator's view of an issue.
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Don't threaten, pressure, attack, or beg a legislator to get a vote.
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Remember, today's opponent may be tomorrow's ally.
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Look for friends everywhere. In politics, a friend is someone willing to work with you on an issue regardless of party affiliation or liberal or conservative viewpoint. The person may disagree with you on every other issue.
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Know your allies, inside and outside the field. Use them as a way to broaden your base of support by letting your legislator know the other agencies that are supportive, both in the district and throughout the state.
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Become familiar with the legislative process, i.e. how a bill becomes a law.
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Don't expect them to know everything. Legislators deal with thousands of bills per session -- they cannot know everything.
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