How to Lobby Washington
Lobbying is not just for professional lobbyists. The U.S. form of government also uses the idea of the citizen lobbyist. A citizen lobbyist supports a cause, issue or platform and works with elected officials to pass legislation to promote the cause. Either as a professional or citizen, lobbying techniques are virtually the same. To lobby Washington, use these steps.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Formulate the message. Define the problem and the proposed solution. Use statistics when possible to support the message. Keep the message short and readable.
-
2
Register as a lobbyist, if necessary. If there is payment for lobbying services, individuals may be required to register with the Secretary of the U.S. Senate and the Clerk of the U.S. House of Representatives. Check with those offices for the exact registration requirements.
-
-
3
Find the players. Certain senators and representatives will be important in successful lobbying activities. Start with the senators from the state and representative from the local Congressional district. Other important senators and representatives will be those on pertinent committees and those who may be sympathetic to the cause.
-
4
Write letters and emails. Still one of the most effective tools of a lobbyist, a letter is read and recorded in Congressional offices. Keep the letter short, less than one page. Be sure and follow political etiquette when addressing the letter. Emails are not quite as effective, but are many times easier to send.
-
5
Place a phone call. Call Washington or the district office. Usually callers will speak to staff members. This is expected and staff members can be very helpful. Log the date, time and staff member's name for each call. Keep the calls brief and to the point. Try to develop a relationship with the staff member. Much of politics relies on relationships.
-
6
Visit the office. Set up an appointment with either a staff member or the elected official. Be on time, bring information to be left behind and do not stay too long. Get to the point quickly and do not make too much small talk. Sign the visitor's book and always let the staff member know how to reach you for questions later.
-
7
Follow the developments. Keep in contact with the senators and representatives offices, but do not become a pest. If new information becomes available, notify the offices immediately. Track any legislation that impacts the issue. Continue to write letters, make phone calls and visit offices.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
One is good, but more are better. Find other like-minded individuals to also write letters, make calls and visit. The more people involved, the more Washington takes notice.
Do not send canned letters--letters that are identical, but have different signatures. Staff members know to look for these and disregard them. Each letter should be different and personal stories are effective.
Always be polite and courteous. This will be much more effective than being angry or belligerent.
