Do's and Don'ts of Citizen Lobbying
Do:
- Make an appointment
- Dress neatly
- Be on time - but be prepared to wait
- Introduce yourself
- Cultivate a good rapport with the assistant and staff - they can be very helpful!
- Stick to the subject at hand
- Be honest If you don't know something, say so
- Know something about the official
- Know the number/name of the bill and something about it
- GET A COMMITMENT - ask them whether they will support your position.
- Thank the public official for the meeting
- Call in or e-mail a summary of the meeting afterwards (612-659-9124, )
Don't:
- Be angry
- Be hostile (I'm a taxpayer!)
- Threaten (You'll pay for this at the polls!)
- Be afraid to be assertive
- Have a lot of material (it will never be read)
- Lose credibility (it will affect everyone who lobbies on the same subject after you)
Points to Know:
- Most public officials are happy when their constituents visit - they'll be friendly
- Public officials want people to like them
- You pay their salary, they work for you
Common Pitfalls — Don't Let them Throw You!
- The public official doesn't show up for your appointment
- The public official is late for your appointment
- Constant interruptions during your meeting
- Meeting is cut short
- Public official doesn't have a copy of the bill/proposal or hasn't read it
- Public official takes control of the meeting and you never get to make your points
- Public official asks so many questions that you find it difficult to make your point
Helpful Hints:
- Confirm appointment the morning of the appointment
- Bring a copy of the bill/proposal with you
- Know exactly what you want to get from the official (yes or no vote, commitment not to vote, etc.)
- Prioritize your points (especially important if the meeting is cut short)
- Know your official's background (voting record, position on the issues, personal history)
- Try to find a common ground with the legislator
- Make yourself available as a resource
- Thank the assistant or staff person