Developing Legislative Relationships

Relationships are an integral part of life. Whether it’s with your family, friends, neighbors, or co-workers, the relationships we build and foster are foundational to the communities we build.  As an elected official, your job relies on relationships with your community, businesses, and other elected officials to build trust and achieve your goals. Federal and state lawmakers are no different. If you have a policy issue that needs to be addressed or city projects that need additional financial support, building and fostering relationships with lawmakers may determine the fate of a request.  

This page provides the basics on how to build relationships with lawmakers and their staff. While there are many similarities to building relationships with lawmakers and their staff and any other relationship, timing, how to approach a conversation, and how to foster that relationship are different due to the nature of this work. See the videos below to learn more and to gain direct insight from lawmakers and legislative staff. 

How to Build Relationships with Legislators and Staff – Key Takeaways 

• Meet early and often. 
• First meetings should never include a request​. 
• Be courteous and respectful of legislators AND staff​. 
• Staff are the keys to both state and federal lawmakers​. 
• Respect everyone’s time​.