Events and Meetings with Legislators and Staff

[Available Formats - Presentation (45-60 minutes)]

Program Content: CMF research shows that Members of Congress consider visits to local facilities to be one of the most valuable ways to understand constituent views and opinions – more than any other source of information! Unfortunately, maintaining "social distance" during the COVID-19 crisis has put this very effective advocacy strategy on ice – or has it? This webinar will explore how creative advocates can leverage common technology to create a virtual site visit for Members of Congress and staff.

Audience: Beginner

[Available Formats - Presentation (45-60 minutes); video (5 minutes)]

Program Content: As Tip O'Neil once stated, "all politics is local." CMF research shows that Members of Congress consider visits to local facilities to be one of the most valuable ways to understand constituent views and opinions – more than any other source of information. This webinar will show participants how to entice Members of Congress to attend local events or meet with key stakeholders. It will also walk participants through the steps to invite legislators to participate in a powerful in-person experience that promises to inform Members about the impact their organization has in Members' districts or states while educating them about their issues. A handout can also be provided upon request.

Audience: Beginner

[Available Formats - Presentation (45-60 minutes); video (2 minutes)]

Program Content: Congressional offices meet with constituents more than 25 times each day. Yet CMF research finds that most constituents forget to do the follow up that keeps their concerns top of mind with the Members of Congress and staff they meet. While meetings are important, strong relationships and trust are built over time through ongoing constituent engagement and consistent follow up. Participants will learn effective methods for following up after meetings; how frequently congressional offices experience effective constituent follow up; and tips for turning a good meeting into a strong relationship with Members of Congress and their staff.

Audience: Beginner

[Available Formats - Presentation (45-60 minutes)]

Program Content: Congressional schedulers are often overlooked as key players in successful congressional interaction. Yet schedulers are legislators' gatekeepers. This program is based on the first-ever survey of schedulers working in the U.S. House of Representatives. Participants will learn key components/data required by a congressional office to assess the value of meeting with constituent groups; optimum timing for submitting scheduling requests; and tips and "pet peeves" when interacting with schedulers and House offices.

Audience: Beginner

[Available Formats - Presentation (45-60 minutes); video (4 minutes)]

Program Content: Coming to Washington can be both exciting and intimidating. This presentation prepares participants to meet with Members of Congress and their staff. The webinar informs participants about how to research their legislators before visits; identify and map their "economic footprints" to demonstrate their organizations' impact in their communities; and create their own personal stories connecting their issue areas to public policy. The accompanying handout provides participants with a clear "to-do" list prior to their meetings with elected officials.

Audience: Beginner

[Formats Available: Presentation (45-60 minutes)]

Program Content: Every year, associations, nonprofits, or companies organize fly-in events so their supporters can meet with their Members of Congress. CMF research finds that many constituents could be better prepared for their meetings on Capitol Hill. This presentation reveals research on congressional offices' experiences in meetings with their constituents, and offers tips on what constituents should do before, during, and after their meetings with their Members of Congress and their staff.

Audience: Beginner

[Available Formats - Video (8 minutes)]

Program Content: Every year, thousands of Americans work with their associations, nonprofits, or companies to attend “fly-in” events or “lobby days” in Washington. But many participants don’t know what to expect when they meet with their legislator or their perceptions are shaped by the media. This presentation provides an overview of congressional offices; outlines staff roles in meetings; and offers tips for successfully meeting with Members of Congress and their staffs.

Audience: Beginner

[Available Formats - Presentation (45-60 minutes); video (5 minutes)]

Program Content: Members of Congress often are harried and overbooked when in Washington. Interacting with lawmakers back home can be the best strategy to get "quality time" with key decision makers. In this session, participants will learn about who lawmakers listen to and why; the most effective tactics and strategies to use in the district or state; how to build long-term relationships with lawmakers and their staff; and the best opportunities for setting up meetings and events back home.

Audience: Beginner