NFIB

Meeting with a member of Congress or congressional staff is a very effective way to convey a message about a specific legislative issue. Below are some suggestions to consider when planning a visit to a congressional office.

Plan your visit carefully
Be clear about what it is you want to achieve; determine in advance which member or committee staff you need to meet with to achieve your purpose.

Make an appointment
Before you call your lawmaker, call NFIB at 800-NFIB-NOW (800-634-2669) and ask for legislative services. They can help you with information about your visit to Capitol Hill, information about issues and other questions you may have. When attempting to meet with a member of Congress, contact the appointment secretary/scheduler. Explain your purpose, the business you own and that you are a member of NFIB. It is easier for congressional staff to arrange a meeting if they know what you wish to discuss and your relationship to the area or interests represented by the member.

Be prompt and patient
When it is time to meet with a member, be punctual and be patient. It is not uncommon for lawmakers to be late, or to have a meeting interrupted, due to their crowded schedules. If interruptions do occur, be flexible. When the opportunity presents itself, continue your meeting with a member's staff.

Be prepared
Whenever possible, bring to the meeting information and materials supporting your position. Members are required to take positions on many different issues. In some instances, a member may lack important details about the pros and cons of a particular matter. Share information and examples that demonstrate clearly the impact or benefits associated with a particular issue or piece of legislation. Give them supporting evidence that shows the cost of legislation on your business, or why a bill will save your business money that you can reinvest in your community's economy. Show them how legislation will make a difference in your life, your employees' lives, and in their families' lives. Always tell them how long you've been in business, how many people you employ, etc.

Be political
Members of Congress want to represent the best interests of their district or state. Wherever possible, demonstrate the connection between what you are requesting and the interests of the member's constituency. If possible, describe for the member how you or NFIB can be of assistance. Where it is appropriate, remember to ask for a commitment.

Be responsive
Be prepared to answer questions or provide additional information, in the event the member expresses interest or asks questions. Follow up the meeting with a thank you letter that outlines the different points covered during the meeting, and send along any additional information and materials requested. Be sure to copy NFIB on your letter to the lawmaker and send us any additional details that might be helpful. When lawmakers make a commitment to you to vote with small business, NFIB will follow up with them!

Contact NFIB's Legislative Services about your visits and contacts with lawmakers
NFIB Legislative Services
1201 F Street, Suite 200
Washington, D.C. 20004
(202) 554-9000 phone
800-NFIB-NOW (800-634-2669) toll-free
(202) 554-0496 fax
legislativeservices@nfib.org