2. Be Prepared, Be Polite, Be Persistent Presented by Mary Griffith, MN, RN To advance and promote professional nursing in Arizona

3.  Lobbying is the art of persuading an elected official to vote a particular way.  Nurses, with their remarkable communication skills, are well suited to this activity.

4.  Be Prepared  Be Polite  Be Persistent

5.  Look up on ALIS Arizona Legislative Information System www.azleg.gov www.azleg.gov

6.  Research your topic – read the bill  Know for and against arguments  See AzNA Public Policy Pages for information and links to resources

7.  Effectiveness of media varies with the legislator  You have the most influence with legislators from your own district  Use correct titles when addressing a legislator  Use your own words  Explain personal, business or political connections in regard to the issue  State your position clearly

8.  Address your legislator properly  Be brief and to the point, the use of positive language is recommended  Be courteous and reasonable  Don’t apologize for your efforts  Don‘t be rude or threatening

9. Write, call or e-mail Use your own words and stationery Be brief and to the point, use positive language One issue at a time. Write and say so when your legislator does something you appreciate.

10. ◦ Make an appointment ◦ Dress in a business-like manner i.e. suit, matching tops and pants, no “skin”, no blue jeans ◦ Be on time and leave on time ◦ Participate in small talk but resist efforts by the legislator to “fog” with friendly chat ◦ Give the legislator materials describing your issue ◦ Ask the legislator to state their position on your issue i.e. “Can I count on your vote of support? “ ◦ Leave a business card ◦ Write a thank you note

11.  Legislators listen best to their own voters. Tell them if you are from their district.  Use various modes to communicate, always sign or leave your name.  Make yourself visible by arranging for a meeting, attending fundraisers, or attending a hearing and introducing yourself during a break.  Thank them when they do something you like.

12.  Be Prepared  Be Polite  Be Persistent