Office of the Chancellor
The UNCG Network
Tips for Making Effective Contacts with Your Legislators
As a member of the UNCG Network, you will be well supported and regularly informed about the latest issues affecting UNCG. Below is helpful information for confidently and effectively contacting legislators via phone and email and writing a letter to the editor of your local newspaper.
Calling or emailing your legislator
- The most effective contacts are the result of ongoing relationships. Don't think of your contact with legislators as a one-time occurrence. Make contacts with legislators between sessions so that when they are in session, they will be more likely to remember your communications and factor them into their advocacy.
- Think of your legislator as a friend, neighbor and colleague, someone with whom you are comfortable talking.
- View your contacts as an opportunity to inform and educate legislators about an issue that is important to you. Think through a few basic facts or messages about UNCG programs and issues that you believe in. Examples from your own experience are very effective.
- Be clear about your message and keep it simple. State what you would like them to do and why their support is needed.
- Don’t feel that you need to know everything. If you are asked a question you can’t answer, let him or her know you will seek out the information and respond later. It’s better to say you don't know than to give incorrect information.
- Be a good listener. Appreciate the concerns a legislator may have about the university or your specific interest. Don't assume your legislator isn’t supportive.
- Understand the competing demands on your legislator’s time and the competing interests at the Legislature.
Writing a letter to the editor
A letter to the editor of a newspaper or magazine is a great way to communicate the importance of an issue to politicians and the general public. Try to keep your letter clear, concise and no more than 150 words.
Suggested statements to include in your communications
- “I am a supporter of the university and I care about its future.”
- “UNCG is very important to residents of the Triad and North Carolina. I care about UNCG because_____________ (state your connection to and appreciation of the university.)
- “Thank you for your past and future support of UNCG and higher education in North Carolina.”
- “UNCG is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of the students and communities it serves. It is a source of innovation and leadership that prepares students for meaningful lives and engaged citizenship. UNCG is an important part of North Carolina’s workforce and provides solutions to the economic challenges our state is facing. UNCG must be able to continue its good work with our continued support.”
Remember to let us know what you hear. If legislators seem particularly supportive, or if you have concerns, please contact Sharlene O’Neil, Chief of Staff, at sroneil@uncg.edu or (336) 334-5266.