Slide 1

Slide 2 Be Prepared, Be Polite, Be Persistent Presented by Mary Griffith, MN, RN To advance and promote professional nursing in Arizona Slide 3 Lobbying is the art of persuading an elected official to vote a particular way. Nurses, with their remarkable communication skills, are well suited to this activity. Slide 4 Be Prepared Be Polite Be Persistent Slide 5 Look up on ALIS Arizona Legislative Information System www.azleg.gov www.azleg.gov Slide 6 Research your topic read the bill Know for and against arguments See AzNA Public Policy Pages for information and links to resources Slide 7 Effectiveness of media varies with the legislator You have the most influence with legislators from your own district Use correct titles when addressing a legislator Use your own words Explain personal, business or political connections in regard to the issue State your position clearly Slide 8 Address your legislator properly Be brief and to the point, the use of positive language is recommended Be courteous and reasonable Dont apologize for your efforts Dont be rude or threatening Slide 9 Write, call or e-mail Use your own words and stationery Be brief and to the point, use positive language One issue at a time. Write and say so when your legislator does something you appreciate. Slide 10 Make an appointment Dress in a business-like manner i.e. suit, matching tops and pants, no skin, no blue jeans Be on time and leave on time Participate in small talk but resist efforts by the legislator to fog with friendly chat Give the legislator materials describing your issue Ask the legislator to state their position on your issue i.e. Can I count on your vote of support? Leave a business card Write a thank you note Slide 11 Legislators listen best to their own voters. Tell them if you are from their district. Use various modes to communicate, always sign or leave your name. Make yourself visible by arranging for a meeting, attending fundraisers, or attending a hearing and introducing yourself during a break. Thank them when they do something you like. Slide 12 Be Prepared Be Polite Be Persistent