Select a Team Leader
Before you start your meetings, establish a team leader who will kick the meeting off and facilitate the discussion. Members should start by introducing themselves and by thanking the legislator for taking the time to meet with you. Be clear, positive, and constructive as you present your position. Know the bill number you are discussing. Ask for a specific action by the legislator (e.g., oppose a specific provision in the Governor’s proposed budget).
Lobbying is a communications skill
Lobbying is simply convincing other people of the benefits of your position. You lobby every day, with virtually everyone you come into contact with. Charm, tact, patience, reasonableness, and listening are all important skills you will need when lobbying.
Be prompt and be patient
Legislators run on very tight schedules. Show up on time for your appointment, and be patient – it is not uncommon for legislators to run late or to be interrupted during a visit by other business. Don’t be discouraged if you meet with staff. Most legislators rely on their staff to learn the issues and to advise them.
Don’t be intimidated
Legislators have numerous issues they are concerned with at any given time. You will likely know more about your issue than the elected official or his/her staff. Remember that you are the expert and that you are there to share your personal experiences.
Keep the conversation on track
Don’t let your conversation wander to other unrelated issues. If the legislator you are lobbying tries to change the topic, gently return to your main point. Listen carefully. Legislators tend to speak generally. Try to draw out specific answers to specific questions.
Don’t lose your temper
No matter what, don’t get angry, sarcastic, or be discourteous. In rare cases, you may find a legislator is simply unresponsive to your issues. If that’s the case, thank them for their time and leave.
Get a commitment
If the legislator immediately expresses support then ask him or her to try to do something concrete to demonstrate their support. For instance, if he or she agrees with your position, ask him or her to speak to house leadership about it.
If you can’t answer a question, don’t try
If, during your meeting, a legislator asks you something you can’t answer, don’t make up a response. Instead, tell them you don’t know the answer but you can find out and will follow up after the meeting.
Leave written materials
Leave detailed materials with the legislator or staff related to your issue(s).
Make notes about what happened in your meeting
Designate a person to write up a summary of the meeting and to follow up as promised.
Maintain your relationship
Once the meeting is over, your lobbying efforts shouldn’t end. When you get home, send a note or email, thanking the legislators you met with for their time and giving other information about the issue that may be of interest to them.
Good luck and have fun!