Visiting Your Legislators
When you begin a conversation with your legislator or an aide, introduce yourselves as constituents and mention any organizations that you represent. Be positive, pleasant and come to the point quickly.
State the purpose of your visit. Explain your position succinctly, and request specific actions that you want your legislator to take. Ask what the Member of Congress plans to do regarding your concerns. Be persistent and polite.
Briefly share why you care about the issue and any experience or credentials relevant to the issues at hand. If you know the member's position feel free to comment on a past vote, thanking him or her, if possible, for a vote or action in favor of something related to your region of interest that you support.
One person should take notes during the conversation, being sure to write down any commitments made by the legislator or aide.
Afterward, send a letter thanking the Member of Congress for the meeting. Briefly recap your position and your understanding of any commitments made during the meeting.