Factsheets
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Meeting with elected officials

Of all the ways to communicate a position to an elected official, the most effective is a face to face meeting. You don't have to be a technical expert on the issues to get your point across. In fact, it's more important that you speak from personal experience.

 Preparing for the meeting...

• If the meeting is to be with a group and the official, meet as a group first before the meeting.

• Select a spokesperson for the group, with the understanding that others can add to what’s being said.  Too many voices can confuse things so that not all your points get covered.

• Review/discuss the facts of your position so everyone understands the issues, and develop your ideas. Identify the arguments for and against your position.

• If possible, do some research about the official (election history, personal background) so you know something about them.

• Role play your meeting (group).

 Conducting the meeting...

• Arrive early—and don’t get upset if you have to wait.  Elected officials often run late.

• Don’t be intimidated by the office or the way you are seated. 

• Sitting behind the desk can be a way that the official tries to keep the upper hand psychologically. Remember he/she works for you, not the other way around.

• ALWAYS USE FACTS—DON’T EXAGGERATE.  Never threaten. 

 Be polite and to the point...

• Begin by thanking the official for taking time to meet and any previous support given—and recognize areas of previous disagreement.  This will indicate you are aware of their actions. Besides, it’s nice to be thanked!

• Present your issue and try to personalize as much as possible by explaining not only the effect on OCSEA/AFSCME, but the public as well.  Always try and present your issue in a way that is politically attractive to the official.

• Concentrate on what the official says.  It’s important to know what they are thinking.  Don’t get angry if you disagree.  Don’t take notes during the meeting.  Don’t interrupt.

• If possible, leave an OCSEA/AFSCME (or other coalition) fact sheet.  Be sure to leave on a pleasant note!

 Follow up and Reporting...

• As soon as possible after the meeting, write down what the official said—BEFORE YOU FORGET! (Especially important if group meeting before everyone goes separate ways)

• Send a thank you note to the official that also reminds them again of your issue, and request that they keep you informed.

• Report on the next meeting at your next union/coalition meeting.

Report meeting information to the OCSEA AFSCME Governmental Affairs Staff via email, fax, or U.S. mail.

See Related

GRASSROOTS FACTS - Legislative Links: Government and Media

GRASSROOTS FACTS - Lobbying: What is it?

GRASSROOTS FACTS: Testifying before a House or Senate Committee

GRASSROOTS FACTS: Writing elected officials

GRASSROOTS FACTS - ALL

Updated: March 8, 2007