- Do your homework. Thoroughly understand your issue. Know what the opposition is saying and have counter-arguments prepared.
- Maintain respect. Even if the policymaker disagrees with your position, maintain respect. You may need him/or her on your side with future issues.
- Understand how the legislative system works.
- Begin the process early. Don't wait until you have a burning issue before you to make your first contact with the policymaker. Start building the relationship now.
- Do not forget about the legislator's aide. Aides frequently have the legislator's ear and can determine whether or not your issue gets the attention of the legislator.
- Remember that you are the expert on your issue. Legislators are confronted daily with scores of issues and cannot be expected to be an expert on each one. You can fill this important role on your issue.
- Be brief. Expect to spend no more than 15 minutes with your legislator and be prepared to get your primary message across in that time. Leave behind a one-page fact sheet or summary of your issue.
- Don't use jargon.
- Follow-up your visit with a thank you letter. This is an opportunity to restate your cause, issue, or position.
http://www.ascd.org/advocacykit/working.html
