1. Know and double-check the data. Peer-reviewed data is best.

• Hughes cautioned that sometimes people expect funding from a bill in order to get data, when the reverse is the reality. The data must be present in order to receive funding for further exploration.

• Has there already been an influential report published that says your issue is not really a problem? If so, expect an uphill battle.

• Come prepared knowing the issue’s legislative history. Congressional staffers change frequently and may not be familiar with what has been done in the past.

• Keep it short. A concise review backed up with more comprehensive documentation is best.

2. Develop a coalition of the willing.

• Get support for the issue from as many diverse groups as possible: schools, community groups, and local or state leaders.

• Know precisely what you want. Are you looking for a bill to be passed? If so, what language would you expect the bill to have? What is your bottom line, and what are you willing to compromise?

3. Research who will be your best champion.

Turf battles are real in politics, cautioned Hughes. It is unwise to urge a Senator to spearhead an issue if another Senator considers it his/her territory.

4. Understand the hook.

Why should people care about the issue? Examples of angles that tend to get politicians’ attention include whether there would be a cost savings, whether children will be aided, or whether women voters will be interested in the issue, said Hughes.

5. Form relationships with the staff.

• Research the background of the staff person to whom you will be speaking. Hughes, for example, is a trained physician, and would not need a primer in medical language, whereas one of her colleagues may require more background information.

• Do not be concerned if the only person to whom you speak is a staff person. Politicians rely heavily on the advice and guidance of their staff. It usually is not necessary to speak to the politician directly in order for the issue to come to his/her attention.

6. Know the legislative and budget cycle.

• There are specific times of the year when Congressional funding decisions are decided. Generally, the budget committee first decides how much money in total will be spent on health by the federal government. Then, the appropriations committee decides how the budgeted money will be allocated among the various health agencies and for what purposes. Pitching an idea past the budget or appropriation request deadlines may be a waste of time.

• Consider timing with the staff, too. They are often extremely busy while Congress is in session. Hughes recommended that appointments to discuss non-urgent matters be made when Congress is in recess, when staffers can spend more time with you.

7. Understand the balance of power between Democrats and Republicans.

Only the majority party has the power to call hearings. Similarly, the majority party controls which bills will be marked up in committee and brought to the Floor for votes.

8. Use volunteers–but also screen them.

The presence of a volunteer speaks well for your issue. This person is not connected to your organization and has decided to spend time freely working to advance the cause. However, Hughes cautioned, some volunteers are not properly informed or socially skilled enough to make appropriate pitches.