Communication Tips

The 12 C’s of Effective Advocacy 

• Be Credible
• Be Convincing
• Be Clear
• Be Concise
• Be Consistent
• Be Creative
• Be Committed
• Build Coalitions
• Celebrate Victories
• Cultivate Champions
• Credit Others
• Know When to Compromise

When Calling

You can always reach your Senators’ and Representative’s offices by calling the Capitol Switchboard at 202-224-3121. Identify yourself as a constituent and as a member of your coalition. Ask to speak with the Legislative Assistant (L.A.) who handles the issue you wish to comment on. If you are calling concerning appropriations, be sure to mention that. Often a different L.A. will handle appropriations matters than the L.A. who handles other legislation on the same topic area. Tell the L.A. why you are calling and read the "Here’s the Message” points from the CADCA legislative alert on the issue you are calling about. If you would like, you may request a written response to your call. If you receive one, please send a copy to CADCA.

When Writing and Faxing

*Note: Since September 11, 2001, Congressional Members are not receiving mail on a regular basis. It is much better to write a letter and fax it to your member, before mailing them the hard copy. Use CADCA's CapWiz system or call CADCA's Public Policy staff if you need your member of Congress' fax number.

Writing is the preferable way to voice your constituent opinion to your elected officials; however, it is not the timeliest. When an issue is not urgent, a letter is a very efficient way to communicate, and it usually generates a written response from your Representative or Senators. You want to state your position clearly and concisely. As always, please send CADCA a copy of the letter you send to your Representative or Senator, as well as any response you receive from them.

When Emailing

Email should be just as formal as a written letter, it just arrives there faster. Follow the above instructions in structuring your email.

*Note: Email is not the most efficient way to reach your members of Congress. Faxing is the most effective method, as a hardcopy of the letter will be printed, and a member of their staff will need to respond to your fax.