Going on a lobby visit may seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. We break down what to do before, during, and after your visit into 6 steps - and give you resources to make the most of your time in a congressional office.
Scheduling a virtual lobby visit? Click here for special instructions.
1. Choose a topic
Your meeting will be most effective if you ask your member of Congress to support or oppose a single piece of legislation. See the current legislative asks on our issues.
2. Decide who’s going.
You’re welcome to lobby alone, but most people find it easier to lobby with a small group. Think about inviting people who represent different parts of your community. Once your group is in place, email support@fcnl.org to let us know that you’re organizing a meeting.
3. Schedule your meeting.
Call the district office (find the contact details at fcnl.org/congress) and ask how to schedule a meeting, then follow their instructions to request a meeting. Most offices ask you to fill out a web form or send an email. Congressional offices receive thousands of contacts a day, so make sure to follow up so your request doesn’t get lost in the shuffle.
4. Get ready.
You don’t need to be an expert — telling your story as a constituent is the most important thing. Use our lobby visit road map to plan who will say what.
5. Go for it!
The goal is to have a respectful meeting where you make your ask at least three times. The lobby visit roadmap will take you through all the steps you need for a successful visit.
6. Follow up.
Make sure to get a business card from the staff member and email them thanking them for their time. Then let us know how the visit went. If the staff had any factual questions for FCNL, please email them to support@fcnl.org and we’ll respond promptly.
Links and Downloads
- Choose your issue: legislative asks
- For your group: lobby visit road map
- For your note-taker: send lobby report to FCNL