Your elected representatives want to hear from you (and if they don’t, that’s all the more reason to be in touch). The key to influencing them is proving that you are\u00a0a well-informed, committed and persistent constituent.<\/p>
When it comes to influencing decisionmakers, all contact is good contact \u2014 and it gets easier with practice. The most impactful forms of lobbying, in roughly ascending order, are email, phone call, personalized letter and a face-to-face visit.<\/p>
No matter which approach you take, it’s important to take time to prepare your thoughts, familiarize yourself with key talking points from resources like this website, and follow up as many times as it takes.<\/p>
Below are some tips to help make your lobbying successful, as well as links to help you find your local, state and federal representatives.<\/p>
Remember, you are dedicated and well-informed: you’re a natural advocate. By building on your on-the-ground experiences and concerns and following a few simple rules, you can achieve great results.<\/p>
Whether you\u2019re writing, calling or meeting in person, the first step is to identify yourself and your issue. Then state your point of view and explain why it’s important to you. Be courteous and get to the point quickly. And follow these simple rules:<\/p>
Make no mistake, influencing policy is hard work. But don’t be intimidated or discouraged; the combination of authenticity, focus and persistence can go a very long way.<\/p>
Two good one-stop shops for reaching Congress:\u00a0<\/span>Congress.org<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>and the Capitol Switchboard, (202) 224-3121 \u2014 ask to be transferred to your representative or senators\u2019 offices.<\/p> Below are links to look up contact information for elected and agency officials from the local to state to federal level, using your zip code.<\/p>