First Guidance Based on Surveys of Congressional Staff

Contact: Susie Gorden, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , 202-546-0100

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A new report coming out this month will be the first research-based guidance to citizens and groups on how to setup, conduct, and follow up meetings with Members of Congress and their staff. "Face to Face with Congress: Before, During, and After Meetings with Legislators," to be released November 21, 2014, is based on the Congressional Management Foundation's work with Members of Congress, and includes the results of new surveys of congressional staff conducted on how best to interact with lawmakers.

The new report will be released as part of the 2014 Professional Women in Advocacy Conference, to be held in Washington, D.C., November 19-21. CMF's President and CEO, Bradford Fitch, will present the findings at a keynote address on November 21.

The report will include survey responses from congressional staff on:

• When is the optimum time, prior to a meeting, for constituent groups, or their representatives, to request a meeting with a member of Congress;
• What are House schedulers' required and preferred content to include in scheduling requests;
• Where is the preferred location (Washington, D.C., or the home state) for a meeting between Members of Congress and constituents.

The report is part of CMF's Partnership for a More Perfect Union, a program to help citizens have better communications, understanding, and relationship with Members of Congress. The report was sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, RAP Index, and the Professional Women in Advocacy Conference.

Founded in 1977, CMF is a nonpartisan nonprofit dedicated to helping Congress and its Members meet the evolving needs and expectations of an engaged and informed 21st century citizenry. Its work focuses on improving congressional operations and enhancing citizen engagement through research, publications, training, and management services.

REPORT RELEASE DETAILS

WHAT: "Face to Face with Congress: Before, During, and After Meetings with Legislators"

WHO: Congressional Management Foundation

WHEN: November 21, 12:01 am

WHERE: Report will be released online at www.CongressFoundation.org

PRESENTATION OF RESEARCH DETAILS

WHAT: Presentation and Panel - "Face to Face with Congress: Before, During, and After Meetings with Legislators"

WHO: Bradford Fitch, President & CEO, Congressional Management Foundation

WHEN: November 21, 9:00 am – 10:00 am

WHERE: Professional Women in Advocacy Conference, the Capitol Hilton, 1001 16th St., NW, Washington, D.C.