Tips for Meeting with your Elected Official

1. Know your legislator. Be familiar with pertinent background information, the district’s composition, groups, or interests which lent support in past elections, the legislator’s committee assign­ments and legislative interests, and his or her voting record on commu­nity and technical college issues in current or previous sessions.
2. Schedule an appointment, if possible. It would be wise to call to confirm the appointment the preceding day. Arrive on time, but be prepared to wait; legislators don’t always control their own time.
3. Dress for the occasion. Neat, conservative—even modest—attire is always appropriate. You want your legislator to remember your visit by the substance of the discussion, not by unusual or unconventional clothing or hair style.
4. Introduce the issues and concerns clearly. Do not assume that your legislator is well-informed about your college. In initial meetings, provide a brief, clear overview for your legislator.
5. Know your case and use more than moral persuasion. Organize your facts and use sound examples. Put your presentation in writing, but do not read it to your legislator. Leave a copy of your written statement with your legislator for later study.
6. Know the case for the other side. Learn their claims and determine their weaknesses. However, do not fail to admit the opposition’s strength even when you claim that, on balance, your argument is more compelling.
7. Be brief and don’t overstay your welcome. Introduce yourself, present your case, answer any questions, say you are available for further discussion, and leave.
8. Be realistic. Not everyone will agree with you nor will those who agree with you do everything you want. Know in advance what you’re willing to compromise and what you are not.
9. Be friendly. Social affability is often more important than cold logic in accomplishing political goals. It is important to build rapport and understanding with your legislator.
10. Be courteous. It is better to leave a legislator neutral rather than actively opposed to you.
11. Follow your meeting with a letter thanking the legislator for the meeting and succinctly restating your position on the issues of interest. Include any requested information in this letter.
12. Coordinate your efforts with your local administration and the TCCTA State Office. Consistent messages must be communicated to the Legislature regarding the needs and desires of the two-year colleges.

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Political Participation Tips

Plan of Action for Grassroots Leaders:

• Fall Semester, Even-numbered Years
• Spring Semester, Odd-numbered Years
• Fall Semester, Odd-numbered Years
• Spring Semester, Even-numbered Years

Plan of Action for Every Educator:

• Meeting with Your Legislator
• Writing to Your Legislator
• Voter Registration
• Sponsoring a Candidate’s Forum
• Facts/Reminders to Legislators