In a toolbox of strategies to make your voice heard in a democracy, contacting legislators – by phone, email, letter, social media, or in-person meetings – is one of the most effective. Whether pushing for policy changes, holding elected officials accountable, or voicing the real-world impacts of legislation, strong, clear, and informative communication is key to persuasive advocacy. Here are 10 tips for engaging with lawmakers on the local, state, and federal levels.
1. DO YOUR HOMEWORK
Get to know the legislator – their district, party, positions and priorities, voting history, and committee assignments. This can help you tailor your message and arguments to their interests, ensuring they resonate.
2. CHOOSE YOUR TACTIC
You can contact legislators via phone, email, and letter, or by scheduling a meeting. For urgent issues, it is easiest – and most timely – to reach out to legislators by phone or e-mail. When time permits, write a letter or schedule a meeting with lawmakers or their staff.
3. SHARE YOUR STORY
Tell legislators who you are and why the legislation matters to you, whether you’re advocating for or against. Emphasize the personal and local impact of a bill, detailing how it will affect you, your community, and their constituents.
4. LEVERAGE FACTS AND FIGURES
While your story helps legislators to see things from your point of view, data adds credibility to your argument and highlights the scope of an issue. Be sure to lean on reliable sources.
5. STICK TO WHAT YOU KNOW
It’s OK to say “I don’t know;” making up information can hurt your reputation. Instead, offer to follow-up with an answer. That allows you to compile the most compelling evidence, and it opens the door for further communication with a lawmaker or their staff.
6. STAY ON TRACK
Don’t get distracted by other policy issues. Set goals and an agenda ahead of your meeting and choose three points you must hit in the conversation. Stick to those.
7. MAKE A CLEAR ASK
Tell the lawmakers exactly what you want them to do. Whether it be supporting or voting against a bill, pushing for a policy change, or taking accountability, be up front about the action you want them to take.
8. BE RESPECTFUL
Be polite, and do not argue with lawmakers or their staff, even if you disagree. Keep language neutral, and if you’re frustrated with a legislator’s position on an issue or commitments, don’t be confrontational.
9. LEAVE MATERIALS BEHIND
Bring reference materials to your meeting and leave copies with elected officials and their staff. Include your name, contact information, and a concise summary of your main points, evidence, and asks.
10. FOLLOW UP
Send a thank you letter or email – effective advocacy centers on building a relationship. In it, re-state your position and make your ask again. You can take to social media to thank an official, too. Public posts can strengthen your relationship, and it holds lawmakers accountable.
Image: Manik Mia/stock.adobe.com
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