Advocacy happens all year long
Advocacy doesn't just happen during the legislative or congressional session. It requires action all year long. Building relationships with your elected officials is the first step. It helps with traction when we need it.
The keys to becoming an effective advocate include:
The keys to becoming an effective advocate include:
- Familiarizing yourself with the issues facing the whole industry so you are aware of all that is being asked of policymakers
- Establishing a relationship with your elected officials; hosting them for "a day in the life" of your business is a great place to start
- Offering to be an on-going resource for your representatives and senators, and their staff
- Participating in the calls to action to add your voice to the legislative process
We've gathered tools and resources to make it easy for you take action. And, you're not alone. Our Government Relations team is here to help and to prompt you when action is especially important.
Know who your elected officials are and how to contact them
You can find out who represents you at the state and federal level by using the state's district finder. To learn who your town, city or county officials are, go to their respective web sites.
Use the state's district finder
Join fellow members in shaping our government relations work
Joining our Advocacy Workgroup, made up of interested members, is a great way to keep dialed-in to all of the policy issues that might impact your business. The group meets monthly via conference call and helps to rally action when its needed.
Host a "Day in the Life" visit at your business
Nothing beats direct experience to build understanding. Hosting your senators and representatives to spend "a day in the life" of your business is a great way to help them see how your business runs and how it impacts your community and the state. We've designed a member-only toolkit to help you plan and execute your "day in the life" visit with your elected officials.
