Helping Members-Elect Successfully Transition to Congress
Featured Resource
Navigating the First 90 Days: A Workshop for Aides of Members-elect
"This was the most relevant program
I attended during training week."— Senior aide for Member-elect
After every congressional election, the Congressional Management Foundation (CMF), in conjunction with the House Chiefs of Staff Association, hosts a workshop for the aides of Members-elect: "Navigating the First 90 Days."
Based on CMF's signature publication, Setting Course, this orientation provides new Members and staff with critical guidance in making a successful transition to Congress.
Panels comprised of Democratic and Republican Chiefs of Staff offer their advice on staffing, budgeting, communications and technology.
Download the handouts from the 2012 session:
Navigating the First 90 Days (2 Mb) Additional Resources
Setting Up The Office
- 10 Office Mistakes for New Members to Avoid
- Setting Course: A Congressional Management Guide
- Establishing District and State Offices
- Developing a Freshman Budget
- Committee Assignments
Technology/Communications
- General Technology Guidance (from Setting Course)
- Technology Resources
- Website Tips
- Mail Management
- Mail FAQs
- Making Technology Work for You
Planning/Management Assistance
Hiring Staff
Official Resources
- House Members Handbook
- Senate Rules
- Housenet (House Intranet Only)
- Webster (Senate Intranet Only)
Legislative References
