GRASSROOTS LOBBYING TECHNIQUES
If we want our Representatives to do their job and support our views, we must do our job as grassroots lobbyist. This means educating our members of Congress about the issues that affect us, our jobs, our families, and the needs of our retirees. As constituents, we are the best lobbyist for the NALC.
There are four methods available to us, that can make us effective grassroots lobbyists: e-mail, letter writing, phone calls, and meetings. We will need to choose the method which best suits the legislative situation at hand.
Excellent at anytime
Very convenient
Instantaneous
Most effective
Able to explain new or difficult issues
Needs sufficient time [at least 2 weeks]
Best when time is short
Issue should be simple
High volume easy to generate [phone banks]
MEETINGS
Establish or maintain relationship with your member of Congress
Personalizes the NALC agenda
Conveys your message face-to-face
Remember to follow up every contact with your Representative. Always follow up a meeting with a thank you and any additional material they may have requested; after a vote or a co-sponsorship, follow up with a letter expressing thanks or disappointment.