You are right. Few responses, and when you get them, they are form letters whose contents reveal that NO ONE actually read what you wrote. Lately, I’ve been composing phone scripts that I use to call legislative offices (often after or before hours, so the message is recorded). I then follow up via email with the same content as the phon…
You are right. Few responses, and when you get them, they are form letters whose contents reveal that NO ONE actually read what you wrote. Lately, I’ve been composing phone scripts that I use to call legislative offices (often after or before hours, so the message is recorded). I then follow up via email with the same content as the phone scripts, but also including links if relevant.
I’ve heard that phone messages are more impactful — and if enough people place calls, especially in a limited time frame, the calls get attention if only because they are a nuisance. Text messages also might work, though I don’t use them.
Another helpful strategy is to personally meet as many elected officials (or their staff) as possible. Sometimes you have to do it more than once, and it doesn’t have to be in a formal setting — even a post-meeting parking lot chat can be incredibly effective.
Personal connections — meeting people as people and getting to know them — can be super helpful. Of course, that won’t work for officials who are far away, but often they have local staff. The staff are the gatekeepers, so knowing and understanding them could be important too.
All great ideas! I just moved to a new state and I’m in the process of getting things registered here and I just might try some of those ideas. I’m hearing impaired, but I can still do the text messages and try to meet some of these people in person. Thank you for the great tips.
Congratulations on your move. We moved twice within 18 months, with the first move being to a new state. Super stressful and soooo much work!
The best thing we did in both places was to meet like-minded people, get to know them well, and work together to help our communities. Local, local, local! And, of course, read and comment on Substacks to help others; you may never know how many people you reach, but you’ll know that you tried.
I’m sure having a hearing disability makes life more difficult, but if you’re open with folks, they will appreciate your efforts to communicate even more.
Also overcoming natural shyness and being humble about what you know and don’t know can work. It’s difficult at first, but once you do it, each subsequent effort is easier. “I am new here and I would love your advice“ is a great icebreaker.
You are right. Few responses, and when you get them, they are form letters whose contents reveal that NO ONE actually read what you wrote. Lately, I’ve been composing phone scripts that I use to call legislative offices (often after or before hours, so the message is recorded). I then follow up via email with the same content as the phone scripts, but also including links if relevant.
I’ve heard that phone messages are more impactful — and if enough people place calls, especially in a limited time frame, the calls get attention if only because they are a nuisance. Text messages also might work, though I don’t use them.
Another helpful strategy is to personally meet as many elected officials (or their staff) as possible. Sometimes you have to do it more than once, and it doesn’t have to be in a formal setting — even a post-meeting parking lot chat can be incredibly effective.
Personal connections — meeting people as people and getting to know them — can be super helpful. Of course, that won’t work for officials who are far away, but often they have local staff. The staff are the gatekeepers, so knowing and understanding them could be important too.
All great ideas! I just moved to a new state and I’m in the process of getting things registered here and I just might try some of those ideas. I’m hearing impaired, but I can still do the text messages and try to meet some of these people in person. Thank you for the great tips.
Congratulations on your move. We moved twice within 18 months, with the first move being to a new state. Super stressful and soooo much work!
The best thing we did in both places was to meet like-minded people, get to know them well, and work together to help our communities. Local, local, local! And, of course, read and comment on Substacks to help others; you may never know how many people you reach, but you’ll know that you tried.
I’m sure having a hearing disability makes life more difficult, but if you’re open with folks, they will appreciate your efforts to communicate even more.
Also overcoming natural shyness and being humble about what you know and don’t know can work. It’s difficult at first, but once you do it, each subsequent effort is easier. “I am new here and I would love your advice“ is a great icebreaker.
Good luck in your new state!