NATCA Bookshelf

19 M e e t i n g s N A T I O N A L A I R T R A F F I C C O N T R O L L E R S A S S O C I A T I O N | W W W . N AT C A . O R G N i W To d a y Congressional Visit Tips Don't overload a Congressional visit with too many issues; be concise and focused. Don't get distracted. Small talk takes away time from discussing your issue. Introduce yourself but keep introductory comments brief. If a member shows a real interest in one of your points, don't cut him/her off just to make it through your list. Don't be argumentative, pressure, beg or threaten a member. Be polite and respectful even if his/her views differ from your own. Speak calmly and state your points. It's okay to disagree in a respectful manner. Don't overstate the case. Keep any presentation brief and leave time for discussion. Don't lose a member's attention by being too wordy. If possible, highlight how your issue affects the member's district and constituents. Don't expect members to be experts. Their schedules and workloads tend to make them generalists. Avoid using acronyms. This is easier said than done and takes some practice and preparation. Explain any highly-specific, complex phrases used by experts in your field that members may not understand. Don't be offended if a member is unable to meet at the last moment and requests that you meet with his/her staff. Vote schedules and committee action can change minute-to-minute and scheduling conflicts do occur. Staff communicate with members. Use an unexpected staff-level meeting as an opportunity to build an important relationship with staff. Don't convey negative attitudes about politics or politicians. This is not the time to express your personal political thoughts – you are representing our organization. Remember that most legislators and staff are hardworking even though you may not agree with their point of view. Be sure to express appreciation for past support. DON'T:

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