Advocate Resources

The Ten Commandments of Lobbying

1. Do your homework. Learn as much as you can about the problem. Be able to explain it, know opposing arguments, anticipate questions and have answers ready.
2. Start early. Be ready when the time comes and know that many things (like getting an appointment) take longer than you think they will.
3. Tell the truth. Legislators rely on you for good information. If you want to be credible, you have to be truthful. If you don't know, say so. If you say you will follow up, do it.
4. Keep it simple. Think about what you want and why you want it. Be concise and persuasive.
5. Take your friends where you find them. Work with unlikely allies. Never cut off anyone from contact. Today's opponent may be tomorrow's ally.
6. Know your opponents. Keep lines of communication open for possible compromises, but don't expect the impossible from implacable opponents.
7. Think big, but know your bottom line. Always ask for more than you think you can get. The legislative process is one of compromise. Decide what is most important and be ready to compromise on the rest.
8. Build coalitions. Work from a united front. Find groups and individuals who agree with you and work with them. Remember who gets credit isn't as important as what gets done.
9. Work at the local level. Legislators pay most attention to their constituents.
10. Thank people who help.