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12 Tips for Better Lobbying
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MCA's Twelve Tips For Better Lobbying

  1. Get The Facts: Fully understand what the proposal - legislative or regulatory - does and how it will impact you and what you do.

  2. Know Your Legislator: Gain an understanding where the legislator stands on an issue, and why, before discussing the matter with him or her. Never ask a lawmaker to do something you know they can't.

  3. Keep It Simple: Develop a brief, concise message that explains why you support or oppose the proposal and stick to it.

  4. Give Examples: Prepare a number of solid examples demonstrating how the proposal will effect various constituencies for good or ill.

  5. Know Your Opponent: Digest your opponent's arguments and be prepared to provide sound rebuttals to them.

  6. Don't Overdue It: Make your points in a businesslike manner. Being overly argumentative can hurt your cause.

  7. Never Burn A Bridge: In politics, today's opponent may very likely be tomorrow's proponent. Always leave the door open to working together in the future.

  8. If You Can't Help...: Sometimes getting a lawmaker without a real stake in an issue to stay out of the fray can be a real plus. If you can't get a yes vote, ask the lawmaker not to do anything that will hurt your position. If the answer is yes, don't forget to say thanks.

  9. Delivering The Message: Face-to-face meetings with elected officials offer the best opportunity to make your point. They can be held in a home or capitol office. Backing up the message delivered by a professional lobbyist with a constituent visit back home is often the most effective communication.

  10. Stay In Touch: Don't just show up when you need something. Be a regular. Try dropping by or dropping a line just to say "good job" on any issue you think has been handled well.

  11. Get Involved: Help out in an election or reelection campaign. Volunteer to distribute campaign materials or join a phone bank. Do whatever you can. There is no better way to make a legislative friend.

  12. Get Organized: Join a trade association or grass-roots group where you work. Organizations like these will help maximize the effectiveness of your voice and your vote.



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