STEP 3
MAKE CONTACT By Phone : Picking up the phone is the fastest way to get your voice heard . Not as many people take the time to call as they do to write an e-mail , so you ’ re more likely to be noticed . If you make a connection this way , it is best to follow up with an email thanking them for their time , and to share some of your prepared notes and contact information . Let them know that you are a resource for them and the next time a sportsman-related bill comes along , you can provide research and contacts . It is likely that you will reach either a voicemail or an aide . Leave a concise message and then send an email asking them for a return phone call or meeting in person .
In Person : Most state representatives will welcome constituents to set up a meeting with them . If you can make this happen , this is the “ Cadillac ” of all approaches , because as we all know from everyday life , in-person meetings are the best way to make a strong and lasting connection with someone . Very few people will take the time for an in-person meeting , so even if brief , it will be valuable . Bring a typed-out version of your bullet points and contact information to leave with them . Any fliers , pamphlets or reports you can leave with them will give them data to refer to in the future . This is a great time to go over the “ 2020 Economic Impacts of Hunting and Target Shooting Report ” and leave a copy with them .
A firm handshake and looking someone in the eye have stood the test of time as the best way to make a connection long before telephones and the internet . As with a phone call , follow up the meeting with an email to thank them for their time and recap your conversation . One thing to keep in mind with an in-person approach is you don ’ t have to go to them in all cases ; an invitation to a meet at your local conservation club or shooting range may be a viable option .
By Email : If you ’ re not having any luck with connecting in person or by phone , email is your next best option . Legislators and their aides are bombarded with emails , and you ’ ll need to make yours stand out . Craft a unique but concise subject line , and start the body of the email with very specific information about yourself and why you are reaching out . Technology allows offices to filter and trash emails that come through as bulk “ form emails ,” so if they can recognize your email as unique , there is a better chance of it being opened and read .
You can also improve your odds greatly by reminding the reader that you are a constituent , especially if you include this information in the subject line . Be wary of attaching any documents or photos to your initial email . This might also flag it for filtering as a security issue . It ’ s a better idea to send such documents later , after you ’ ve established the relationship .
Via Social Media : There can be a strong temptation to call out your legislators on social media . It is easy and fast , and the whole world can see it . However , this is not an effective way to make initial contact nor build a lasting relationship with your legislator . Your passionate post or tag may be viewed as a rant or attack . Often there is an aide running a legislator ’ s social media , or perhaps they are flooded with interactions ,
ADOBE STOCK ( 3 )
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