Advocacy Do's and Don'ts

DO identify yourself and say whom you represent immediately on each contact. Legislators meet hundreds of people and they can't remember everyone.

DO know the issue or the status of the legislation. Refer to the legislation by bill number.

DO be brief. Legislators are very busy.

DO be specific and practical. Relate arguments to situations in the legislator's home district.

DO thank legislators.

DO keep the door open for further discussion even if you don't agree at this time. "Politics make strange bedfellow" is not without foundation.

DO talk with legislators even if their position differs with yours.

DO think of yourself as a consultant to a legislator. You have the expertise and insights that help the legislators understand the bill.

DO be honest. NEVER lie. Acknowledge opposing arguments and any political liabilities.

DO ask the legislator for support.

DON"T back legislators into a corner.

DON"T overwhelm them with too much information or jargon.

DON'T get into lengthy arguments.

DON'T be afraid you say you don't know. Offer to find out and send the information back.

DON'T confront, threaten, pressure or beg.

DON'T expect legislators to be specialists. Their schedules and the number of bills make the generalists.

DON'T ask the impossible too often.