10/08/2007
One of the most important things you can do as a leader in your small-business community is getting to know your lawmakers. Building a rapport with them is crucial, as the more familiar they are with you and your business, the more responsive they will be to the issues that matter to you.
Visit your lawmakers' offices
One of the easiest ways to start getting to know your lawmakers is to visit them in their offices, either in Washington or the state capital, or when they're at home during recess. Be sure to call their office and set up an appointment ahead of time, and come prepared with a list of issues you'd like to bring to their attention. If your lawmaker’s schedule allows, take a few minutes to get to know them on a personal level, as well.
Keep in mind that while you may not have much time to talk, making the effort to visit your lawmakers face-to-face shows your dedication to improving the small-business community, and is something legislators are likely to remember.
Host a meet-and-greet
A meet-and-greet not only provides you the opportunity to build a rapport with your lawmakers, but also allows them to better understand the community they represent. At a meet-and-greet, you get the opportunity to ask questions, talk about your experiences as a small-business owner and discuss the issues important to your business while showing your support for a pro-small-business legislator.
NFIB can help you plan and host your meet-and-greet, and has numerous tips and resources to help make the event a success. Contact your state office or call 1-800-552-NFIB for more information.
Volunteer on a campaign
With campaign season in full swing in several states, it's easy to find pro-small-business candidates in need of volunteers. Your time and effort spent volunteering is a valuable contribution--one that will be remembered, particularly if the candidate is elected to office. And if you're completely swamped at your business, don't worry--there are multiple levels of volunteering. Learn more about getting involved with local and national campaigns from NFIB.com.
Join your local Area Action Council
If you can't devote too much time away from your business to plan a meeting with a lawmaker on your own, joining an NFIB Area Action Council is a great way to meet your lawmakers and get involved with small-business issues. AACs help small-business owners network, and provide an opportunity to have direct input on public policy issues and build relationships with elected officials.
Need more ideas?
Contact your NFIB state office or the national grassroots office in Washington for more ways you can help.
