How to form relationships with policy makers

Building relationships with decision makers puts you in a good position to advocate for change. By getting to know your representatives—your MP, MPP, MLA, MNA, city councilors, mayor, reeve or warden—and building a reputation of credibility, you can open doors, now and for the future. Below are some ways to develop a good relationship with your elected representatives.

Tips for Building Relationships with Policy Makers

• Invite your representatives to events that relate to your cause. Show them that there will be thoughtful dialogue, and that neither they nor their parties will be verbally attacked.
• Attend events where your representative will be speaking.
• When you contact your representative about an issue that concerns you, follow up later on the progress made or lack thereof.
• Read the local paper and constituent brochures to find out what the representative is doing.
• Engage in thoughtful dialogue with your MP, and show that you want to help her do her job.
• Avoid taking an adversarial tone or engaging in adversarial actions, as this may compromise your ability to have an impact, both now and in the future.
• If you support your representative, get involved politically by volunteering in campaigning for her or working in her local office.
• Make sure that you say “thank you” or “well done” when the representative does something that you like.

How to find the contact information of your elected representatives

• Find your MP using your postal code.
• Go to the website of your province (e.g. www.alberta.ca) to find your representative in the provincial legislature.
• Your municipal elected officials can be found through the website of your city, town, or township.
• Contact information for government officials can also be found in the Blue Pages of your local phone book.