Here is an example of a step-by-step approach to use when arranging a “meet and greet” session with your legislator.

Step 1: Contact the Texas Academy’s Public Policy Panel to let them know you’re interested so they can assist you in any way

Step 2: Call the legislator’s office and ask if the legislator might be interested in attending an informal meeting, such as a breakfast meeting, to listen to RDN’s legislative health care concerns.

Step 3: Once the legislator accepts, coordinate with his or her scheduler to arrange a date, time and location for the event and to determine any special requirements necessary for the legislator.

Step 4: Contact TAND Headquarters or local districts for an updated list of members living in the legislator’s district or state.

Step 5: Send letters of invitation or call members to encourage them to attend the event to show support for the profession. Conduct follow-up calls to those who did not respond to the invitation or the initial call. The more RDNs attending, the better!

Step 6: Send a copy of the proposed agenda and a list of all attendees to the legislator.

Step 7: On the day of the event, make sure all arrangements have been finalized and properly carried out prior to the event.

Step 8: Send a thank you letter to the legislator and anyone in his or her office that helped make the event a success.