It is inevitable that advocates will need to talk to politicians. Congressmen and senators need to be aware that the people, whom they serve, have problems that can not be solved with out government involvement. Advocates can rally public sentiment by being the expert about a problem and provide a solution. Advocates should not be lobbyists first. They should be citizen experts first and foremost.

As citizen expert, the advocate will be called on to communicate with politicians. Advocates should encourage the people around them to send messages to their local, state and federal officials when a issue becomes prevalent. There are several tips that can be passed along to be more effective when talking with those in public office.

Be concise with your argument and present more than just problems and complaints. Do not present a problem without a solution. Letters with a bunch of complaints and problems can be easily discarded. Politicians do not need to get letters containing more problems. If you present solutions then they will take a more substantial note of the issue.

Politicians are not expert in a problem. They know how to get things done through the bureaucracy of government. Write your letter in a way that provides two or three major points that need addressing. A long list of points will be skimmed or ignored. Write simply but professionally. A politician does not need to know the history of an issue. They need only know the most relevant facts of the problem and the most relevant solution to the problem.

Be politically neutral with your arguments. Regardless of your political affiliation you must make a real effort to maintain political neutrality when presenting your argument. If a politician suspects the issue and solution are within the realm of their political party then they can ignore it since they know you will support them regardless of what they decide. However, if they see there are a sizable number of voters who want a solution that is outside their party line they will take note of it.

Remember that all important issues do not lean toward a particular political alignment. Important issues concern all citizens. Party heads know this and try to create a political alignment. The best way to reduce this effect is to write members on both sides of the aisle. If both sides agree on a problem then, at least, there is only the issue of the solution to debate. By providing the most relevant solution you can help to stem some of the debate and action can be taken sooner.

Lastly, keep in mind that politicians are in office to serve the public. Tell them “we need your support for” the issue at hand in your letter. Seek out others of the opposing party. A politician will take note if people of both parties are telling them the same thing. Also remember that you are serving the citizens by acting as the expert. Make a concerted effort to be up to date on the issue at hand.

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