TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION
Below are some tips to help you get your views across effectively when contacting a legislator or important policy maker. Use these tips as a guide for effective communication and results.

Tell Them Who You Are
• Write your name and address in the letter.
• Write legibly or type the letter.
• When calling, make sure to give your name and address.

Tell Them what Your Want
• Write or call about one bill or subject at a time.
• Have name and/or number of legislation you are interested in.

Come Across Clear and Concise
• Give as much detail as possible about the subject you are contacting them about.
• Give reasons for your opinion.
• Give your opinion in your own words. Stay away from form letters or postcards.
• Share opinions of organizations you may belong to.

Get A Response
• First, ask the legislator to support or oppose the legislation or subject you are calling about.
• Request that the legislator let you know their position on the issue. It's your right to know!!!
• Make sure that the answer you get really does answer your request and informs you of their position.
• Also check to make sure the letter tells you what the legislator has done in the past on this subject and what they plan on doing in the future.
• If you receive a generic, noncommittal letter, respond to your legislator and ask again for their position. Also, reiterate your position.
• Ask for their position even if the issue is in committee.

Some Helpful Hints
• Be timely with your letter or phone call.
• Be courteous when calling or writing. Commend the legislator when possible.
• Be concise when calling or writing. A brief phone call or a one page letter is adequate.   Your letter has a better chance of being read if it's short and to the point.
• Make sure the office you are contacting is your legislator's office.


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