In this issue
Quote of the Month
To be able to carry money without spending it;
To be able to bear an injustice without retaliating;
To be able to do one’s duty when critical eyes watch;
To be able to keep at a job until it is finished;
To be able to do the work and let others receive the recognition;
To be able to accept criticism without letting it whip you;
To be able like those who push you down;
To be able love when hate is all about you;
To follow God when others put detour signs in your path;
To have a peace of heart and mind because you have given God your best.
This is the true measure of success.
  - Author Unknown

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August 2008

Welcome New Members
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Tools for the Trade

How to be effective with lawmakers..*

Politics?  They say that politics, among other things, make the world go round, right?  If so, we are at the threshhold of having our world turned up side down!  We each have a responsibility to take action to irmpove the industry in which we share such passion for!

It's critical (NOW) to make a connection with your legislators.  In order to do so, you need to know how to deal with your lawmakers to help them understand, in an educated manner, the true nature of the issues we face.  Nahu's Legislative Advocacy page is a great resource to help you gather facts and prepare for a meeting with a legislator (http://www.nahu.org/legislative/index.cfm).  Below you will find key elements of making an effective presenation to lawmakers. 

1.  Know your audience.  Know the legislators' and staff members' backgrounds, occupations, hometowns, interests, etc.

2.  Confirm and arrive promptly.  Confirm your meeting with the scheduler.  Arrive promptly, but be prepared to wait.

3.  Be well-prepared.  Have your points and thoughts logically organized.  If you get a chance, practice your point with a friend or co-worker and ask them for suggestions.

4.  Make a connection.  Identify yourself and describe your business operation or association membership.  Help your lawmaker understand how you are qualified to speak about the matter - either because if affects you directly or because you have expertise in the area.

5.  Be Brief.  Keep your points reasonably concise (less than 5 minutes) and to the point.  Speak in a normal manner, using everyday language (avoid industry jargon) to explain the effects of an issue on your clients and the community.

6.  Staff is important.  Although many may seem young and inexperienced, staff is vital to running a Congressional or legislative office.  Treat them with respect, cultivate a relationship and build trust because these are the people who brief legislators.

7.  Be certain of your answers.  Don't attempt to answer questions if you don't have the answers or aren't sure of the facts.  Offer to provide additional information after the meeting.

8.  What's your ask?  Conclude with a specific request.  If it's your first meeting, you may not want to make a significant request, but seek a follow-up (in-district meeting, potentially with clients or a 'town hall') meeting.

9.  Thank you and follow-up.  Send a handwritten thank you that repeats your main points and restates your ask.  Follow up with promised information; be sure to do so as soon as possible.  This will add to your credibility.

*Excerpts taken from and with permission from Humana's "How to be effective with Lawmakers" slick.

We have found a few great resources that should help you with your business...

Check out this free guide to Long Term Care Insurance:  http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/health/ltc/guide.htm

www.lifehappens.org is a great resource for promotional and educational materials that support September's Life Insurance Awareness Month (LIAM).
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