Tips for Effective Lobbying

A lobbyist is a person who attempts to influence specific legislation through personal appeals. Lobbyists may provide information, testify, and solicit votes as individuals or at the direction of an organization.

• Be friendly and smile.
• Identify yourself. Tell your legislator where you live and if you're in his/her district and tell about organizations to which you belong.
• Do not be late. It is a sign of disrespect, which the legislator will remember when considering your viewpoint.
• Keep it short and simple. State what you want up front. Legislators are busy people who have to deal with many issues-don't confuse them, bore them or make them guess what you want them to do.
• Be confident. Look your legislator in the eye and speak with authority.
• Always be courteous. Being hostile will simply seal opposition against you-now and for future issues.
• Never lie or make up information. A lobbyist's greatest strength is credibility. If you don't know the answer to a question, tell the legislator you will try to find out and then provide the information promptly in a letter or phone call.
• Be a good listener. It will be endearing and provides you with valuable information about the legislator's views and concerns.
• Press for a commitment. Ask directly for the legislator's particular stance or action you support.
• Say thank you. Always thank the legislator for any good stances taken and for taking the time to meet with you.
• Take notes. Immediately after the meeting, write down what you learned from the legislator, so you can use that information later.
• Be persistent. Polite persistence always pays off when trying to get your legislator to meet with you or support your position.