Effective Lobbying Techniques
Why Politics? Effective Lobbying Techniques Testifying How a Bill Becomes a Law
Before heading to Tallahassee – DO YOUR HOMEWORK AT HOME!
The most important lobbying is done in the legislator’s home district. They need to hear from their constituents. Make contact with his/her office to present your issues. Get involved in the elections of FEA recommended and candidates. Effective lobbying required multiple contacts and follow-up.
As a common courtesy, be sure to turn off or place your cell phone on vibrate during your meeting. Keep literature and information brief. Provide material that is easy to read with main points highlighted.
It is important to get to acquainted with the staff members assigned to legislators, their secretaries, and committee. You will need to work with these people.
Public officials and their staff come in contact with a lot of people. It is impossible for them to remember everyone. Be sure to always identify yourself at every contact, and remind them of your special interest.
Be aware of the status of each bill that pertains to your subject or issues. Check the bill’s status daily.
Study their past record on related issues
Know the legislators’ interests and committee assignments
Try to determine the most effective approaches
Identify any prior commitment to your cause
Encourage legislators to promote support among their colleagues
Commend legislators for any positive action on your subject or issue. A phone call or a note is effective. Be quick to commend and slow to criticize. Being critical is seldom beneficial unless done so in a constructive manner. Always provide alternatives.
Remember, the legislator who votes against your position today may support your position tomorrow.
Be brief with your appeal. Work with your legislators – do not confront them.
Remember, they get to vote – you don’t! Do not overstay your visit. They are busy people. If the legislator is not available try to meet with a member of their staff. Explain your case to them.
A reminder to the legislator is appreciated since thousands of bills are considered each session.
If a legislator responds negatively to your issue, never overreact or become emotional. Always keep the door open for the future. Many times a legislator will change their opinion after learning more information.
Remember to talk to your adversaries as well as your advocates. Never take any vote for granted.
If you are going to oppose someone’s bill, tell them. Often a compromise can be worked out that will benefit both parties. You can gain a supporter!
FEA Public Policy Advocacy Division consists of a team of full-time government relations and communications staff who are registered lobbyist and provide professional expertise on education-related issues. FEA is located one block away from the Capitol. So, FEA staff stay engaged on a daily basis.Testifying
