How can you involve local government officials in your outreach efforts?

1 Identify your goals and audience

Before reaching out to local government officials, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and who you want to target. Do you want to inform them about your programs, initiatives, or achievements? Do you want to solicit their feedback, input, or endorsement? Do you want to invite them to participate in your events, activities, or campaigns? Depending on your goals, you may need to contact different levels and types of officials, such as city council members, county commissioners, mayors, state legislators, or governors. Research their backgrounds, interests, and responsibilities, and tailor your message accordingly.

2 Establish rapport and trust

Local government officials are busy people who receive many requests and inquiries from various sources. To stand out and gain their attention, you need to establish rapport and trust with them. One way to do this is to find common ground and show appreciation for their work. For example, you can mention how their policies or actions have benefited your school or district, or how you share their vision or values for education. Another way is to demonstrate your credibility and professionalism. For example, you can highlight your credentials, accomplishments, or awards, or provide relevant data or evidence to support your claims.

3 Communicate effectively and respectfully

When communicating with local government officials, you need to be clear, concise, and respectful. Whether you are sending an email, making a phone call, or meeting in person, you should follow some basic etiquette rules. For example, you should use formal salutations and titles, avoid jargon or slang, and proofread your messages for errors. You should also be polite and courteous, and avoid making demands or complaints. Instead, use positive and constructive language, and express your gratitude and appreciation. Finally, you should follow up and follow through on your communication. For example, you can send a thank-you note, provide updates, or fulfill your commitments.

4 Offer value and benefits

Local government officials are more likely to respond and engage with you if you can offer them value and benefits. This means showing them how your outreach efforts can help them achieve their goals, address their concerns, or meet their needs. For example, you can explain how your programs, initiatives, or achievements can improve the quality of education, enhance the well-being of students and families, or contribute to the economic and social development of the community. You can also invite them to collaborate with you on projects, events, or campaigns that can showcase their leadership, influence, or impact.

5 Seek feedback and input

Local government officials are not only potential supporters or allies, but also valuable sources of feedback and input. They can provide you with insights, perspectives, or suggestions that can help you improve your outreach efforts and achieve better outcomes. Therefore, you should seek their feedback and input on your plans, strategies, or challenges, and listen to them with an open mind and a learning attitude. You should also acknowledge and appreciate their feedback and input, and show them how you have incorporated or addressed them. By doing so, you can demonstrate your respect, humility, and willingness to learn from them.

6 Maintain and strengthen the relationship

Involving local government officials in your outreach efforts is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process. You need to maintain and strengthen the relationship with them over time, and show them that you value their partnership and support. You can do this by keeping them informed and updated on your progress, achievements, or challenges, and celebrating your successes and milestones with them. You can also provide them with recognition, appreciation, or incentives, such as certificates, plaques, or invitations to special events. Additionally, you can look for opportunities to expand or deepen the collaboration, such as joining committees, networks, or coalitions, or initiating new projects, events, or campaigns.