<p>Legislative Communication Tips</p><p>Give Your Legislative Efforts a K.I.C.K.</p><p>Phillips Petroleum calls its new mini-marts "Kick 66," implying strength, energy, horsepower, movement. Sometimes the difference between winning and losing a football game is an extra point kick through the uprights. When a long distance runner spots the finish line they find an extra kick of energy for the final sprint to victory. You too can energize your legislative efforts and enjoy more success, with an extra K.I.C.K.</p><p>K - Know your legislator, to communication with them better.</p><p>Get to know their background (e.g., family, neighborhood, education, profession or business). </p><p>Know their experience (e.g., sporting, outdoor, conservation, recreation programs, open space). </p><p>Learn about their family/phase of life (e.g., married, working spouse, single, single parent, young kids, grandchildren, have kids or grandchildren involved with recreation programs).</p><p>I - Information your legislator.You are the park, recreation and conservation professional. They are not. You have a lot to share with your legislator about your agency:</p><p>What it does. </p><p>Who you services impact (youth, seniors, fitness, sports, nature). </p><p>What communities you serve, and population size. </p><p>Tax impact, how your small piece of the tax pie services so many so well.</p><p>Also, inform your legislator about you (the same background, experience, and family information you need to know about your legislator).</p><p>C - Connect with your legislator as often as you can.</p><p>Find neutral ground by recognizing them (just say "hi") at social events, not-for-profit fundraisers, groundbreakings, school programs, church. </p><p>Go to them at party events and fundraisers, where they hang out (golf, tennis, favorite watering holes), their local and Springfield offices. (Bonus Tip: Get to know your legislator's secretary by name). </p><p>Bring them to you by inviting them to grand openings, ribbon cuttings, park tours, special events. Invite your legislator to board meetings as a guest speaker (or special recognition when deserved). </p><p>Be sure to include their families when possible.</p><p>K - Keep the relationship growing.</p><p>Get to know more about them. </p><p>Teach them more about your business. Stay connected.</p><p>Use the K.I.C.K. factor to guarantee better results. Legislators make more knowledgeable decisions when they understand what we do. If you know them, personally and professionally, they are more responsive to you and your calls get returned fast. If your legislator knows your issues or something about your projects, you'll have a better chance for action on important matters - to get legislation proposed and passed, as well as opportunities for funding and assistance.</p>