Calling Tips
When you call, it’s most likely that you won’t get to speak with your elected official, but your call is still very important, carries weight, and can achieve results. In this case, your call will take less than 30 seconds, yet could change the way your official will vote on an issue.
Here are several tips to help maximize the effectiveness of your telephone call:
Identify yourself as a constituent. Lawmakers are most concerned and interested in the thoughts and opinions of their constituents – people who live and vote in their state or district, who may vote for or against them in the next election. Being a constituent gives you power, so always be sure to give your name and to identify yourself as a constituent.
Be brief and clear. Always limit your call to one subject. Be brief and specific. State why you are calling, and give the specific legislation or issue. Clearly and concisely explain the reasons why you feel the way you do about the issue. Request the action that you would like the lawmaker to take on the issue.
Be courteous and ask for a response. When contacting officials, always be gracious in your request. Regardless of where your lawmaker stands on an issue, never threaten or use abusive language. If the lawmaker does not support your view, let your lawmaker know you’re disappointed. If the office does not know where the lawmaker stands on the specific legislation or issue, be sure to ask for a response once the lawmaker has had a chance to review the legislation or issue.
Here are several tips to help maximize the effectiveness of your telephone call:
Identify yourself as a constituent. Lawmakers are most concerned and interested in the thoughts and opinions of their constituents – people who live and vote in their state or district, who may vote for or against them in the next election. Being a constituent gives you power, so always be sure to give your name and to identify yourself as a constituent.
Be brief and clear. Always limit your call to one subject. Be brief and specific. State why you are calling, and give the specific legislation or issue. Clearly and concisely explain the reasons why you feel the way you do about the issue. Request the action that you would like the lawmaker to take on the issue.
Be courteous and ask for a response. When contacting officials, always be gracious in your request. Regardless of where your lawmaker stands on an issue, never threaten or use abusive language. If the lawmaker does not support your view, let your lawmaker know you’re disappointed. If the office does not know where the lawmaker stands on the specific legislation or issue, be sure to ask for a response once the lawmaker has had a chance to review the legislation or issue.