How to Make the Most Out of Your In-District Meeting with a Legislator

Meeting with your elected officials in person is one of the most effective ways to communicate your needs and concerns. Personal connections can make your letters and calls more influential and help drive meaningful change. Here’s how to make the most out of your in-district meeting with a legislator:

1. Schedule in Advance

Plan Ahead: Contact your legislator’s office well before your desired meeting date. Call ahead to book an appointment with your elected official or their legislative assistant. This ensures you have ample time to prepare and secures your slot in their busy schedule.

2. Introduce Yourself Clearly

State Your Purpose: Begin your meeting by clearly introducing yourself and explaining the purpose of your visit. Share specific details about how the issue affects you personally and the broader industry. A clear introduction sets the stage for a productive discussion.

3. Be Well-Informed

Do Your Homework: Equip yourself with comprehensive background information on the issue at hand. Review relevant materials from various sources and focus on PHA’s key messages. Being well-informed allows you to discuss the issue confidently and answer any questions the legislator may have.

4. Plan and Keep It Brief

Prepare and Concisely Present: Organize your key points and present them clearly and concisely. Aim to keep the discussion focused and respectful of the legislator’s time. Allow them plenty of time to ask questions and engage in the conversation.

5. Provide Fact Sheets

Hand Out Key Information: Prepare single-page fact sheets that summarize urgent or complex issues. These should be clear, concise, and visually appealing to help your legislator grasp the essential points quickly.

6. Show the Connection

Align with Constituents’ Interests: Demonstrate how your request aligns with the interests of the legislator’s constituents. Highlighting the local impact of your issue can make your case more compelling and relevant to the legislator.

7. Ask for Specific Support

Make a Clear Request: Be explicit about what you are asking for. Whether it’s support for a specific piece of legislation or backing for a policy initiative, a clear and specific request can guide the legislator’s response and actions.

8. Follow Up

Document and Report: After the meeting, document the outcomes and any commitments made. Share this information with the advocacy staff in the state office. Following up ensures that the discussion has a lasting impact and helps in tracking progress.

By following these steps, you can make your in-district meeting with a legislator more effective and impactful. Building personal connections and clearly communicating your needs will help advance your advocacy efforts and foster stronger relationships with your elected officials.