Quick tips and 3 steps to make the most of face-to-face time
Quick Tips
- Be warm and friendly throughout
- Stay on point
- Thou shalt not read the script
- Listen. Tune into body language.
- Ask for something. Offer something.
- Connect your ask with local priorities.
- Connect your ask with something that matters to the person you’re meeting with.
- Storytelling can be tremendously helpful. But keep it tight.
- Stick to the duration you’d agreed upon. Don’t expect to stretch.
- Ask if you can take a selfie and share it to social media.
- Follow-up with support staff.
- Invest for the long term: it’s rare to get the answer you are looking for as a result of a single meeting.
Before the Meeting
- Be clear on what you’re asking for. (Funding? Support? A vote? A policy change?)
- Practice making your “ask” in 30 seconds.
- Have a short elevator pitch ready about your organization and impact. (See “Worksheet” section to develop your elevator pitch.)
- Confirm the meeting details: Who’s attending? Where? How long?
During the Meeting
- Stick to your key messages.
- Take a breath; it’s a conversation, not a performance.
- Really listen.
- Respond thoughtfully to questions. If you don’t have answers, say so (and offer to find them).
- Confirm any next steps or follow-ups.
- Leave time for questions and dialogue.
After the Meeting
- Send a thank you note or email.
- Forward any promised documents or follow-up to Councillors (and/or staff, if applicable).
- Keep both Councillors and their staff in the loop. Updates matter.
- Invite them to upcoming events (and be a gracious host).
- Avoid putting them in a tricky spot at public events.
- Create a welcoming, non-partisan space.
- Keep the conversation going. Don’t hesitate to stay in touch or ask questions later on.