Everyone broke into groups again. Monét Cooper of Jubilee and Lou Hille of Oxfam led a session on “Lobbying 101,” Jane Ascroft of CARE and Mike Batell of Bread for the World led a session on “Lobbying 202″ and Anne Bathelder and Annisa Wanat of ONE led a session on the candidates.

I dropped by Jane and Mike’s sessions where they were talking about ways to prepare before meeting with a member of Congress, including researching the member, researching your issues and planning your clear, concise ask.

Mike really emphasized the importance of learning your members’ backgrounds. If you can be versatile with your message, and tailor it to a certain way of thinking (faith, security) who may find it can resonate with your member more quickly and with more staying power.

Jane talked about not being discouraged if your member (or their staff person you meet with) isn’t on board. You may have to develop a relationship with him or her and think of that member in terms of a long-term plan. Be polite and persistent. You’d be surprise how people can come around with some time.

This sheet might also be helpful:Meeting Your Member of Congress