Legislators' schedules can be very hectic and very tight.
Respect their time, and they will respect your position.
Know the points you want to cover.
Anticipate questions your legislator might have and craft responses ahead of time.
Every time you make contact with your legislator and his or her staff,
clearly state your name and who you represent.
Be concise, specific, and clear.
After making introductions, refer to the purpose of your visit.
If you're asking your legislator to take a specific action on a specific issue at a specific time,
give him or her all the details.
Let your legislator know how your issue or proposal is affecting the daily lives of his or her constituents.
If you know of opposition to your proposal, let your legislator know about it.
Always regard and respect your opponents.
Don't denigrate the other side, but instead be prepared to honestly articulate a response.
This will illustrate your depth of understanding, and may neutralize your opponent's influence.
If needed, reinforce your position with a succinct, one-page position paper.
Ask your legislator if you can count on his or her support.
After you've made your case, ask with whom on the legislator's staff you should follow up.
Send a letter thanking your legislator for his or her time and attention.
In your letter, briefly summarize the content and nature of your discussion.
Assure your legislator of your willÂingness to answer questions or provide additional information.
Include another copy of your position paper.
If your legislator indicated he or she would support your position, say thank you for the assistance.
