Legislative Day
How to Approach a Legislator
Missouri State Capitol
What do I do when I get to a legislative office?
- Identify yourself. Tell them that you are a University of Missouri alumnus and are in Jefferson City for Legislative Day.
- Ask to speak to the legislator. If it’s your local Senator or Representative, make sure they know you are a constituent.
- Sign the guest book if another alumnus has already come by, and continue on to your next visit.
- Meet with chief of staff or aide in charge of education issues if the legislator is busy. They will relay the information to the legislator.
- Focus your discussion on the talking points provided earlier. Be brief and to the point. If they need more information than you are able to provide, tell them that you will ask someone to get back with them.
- Remind them about the rally at 10:30 a.m., first floor Rotunda. Encourage them also to visit the displays on economic development, third floor rotunda, until 2:00 p.m.
Are there any other tips I should know?
- Be Patient. It isn’t uncommon for a legislator to be detained because of constant demands on his/her schedule.
- Be a Good Listener. It’s important to the legislator to have his/her view heard. Their comments and questions should provide insight for follow-up materials. View the meeting as an exchange of thoughts and information.
- Be Responsive. Express to the member your willingness to get more information if he/she expresses interest or asks questions you are not prepared to answer.
- Be Appreciative. Keep a friendly tone during the meeting. Recognize the contributions the Legislature has made and emphasize the importance of sustaining that momentum.
What do I do after the visit?
- Follow-up with a brief note or e-mail thanking the legislator for taking time out of their busy schedule to visit with you, and thank them for their support of the University of Missouri.
