Strategies for Interacting with or Requesting Encounters with Members of Parliament
In the wake of significant political events, such as the 2016 election, digital campaigning organisations are increasingly seeking ways to engage with Members of Parliament (MPs) and Senators. This article outlines a comprehensive guide for meeting with MPs, based on the successful example of GetUp's "Meet Your MP" events.
Preparation Steps:
- Research your MP: Understanding your MP's background, political positions, committee roles, and recent parliamentary work is crucial for tailoring your discussion effectively.
- Clarify your objectives: Define the specific issues or requests you want to address.
- Prepare materials: Bring fact sheets, constituent stories, or petitions to provide clear and compelling evidence or support.
- Coordinate with event organisers: If attending a "Meet Your MP" event like GetUp’s, familiarise yourself with the event format and any protocols.
Meeting Etiquette:
- Be punctual and professional: Arrive on time, dress appropriately, and introduce yourself clearly.
- Respect protocol: Follow guidelines established by the MP or event organisers, e.g., waiting your turn to speak and staying on topic.
- Be concise and clear: MPs have limited time; focus on key points supported by facts.
- Listen actively: Show engagement and openness to dialogue.
- Use respectful language: Avoid confrontational or overly aggressive stances.
Follow-up Actions:
- Send a thank-you note: Express appreciation promptly after the meeting.
- Provide additional information: If promised, send further details or answers to questions raised.
- Track commitments: Note any commitments made by the MP and follow up if necessary.
- Engage continuously: Stay connected through newsletters, social media, or future events to build a longer-term relationship.
While specific public templates for "Meet Your MP" events by GetUp are not readily available, such civic engagement activities generally emphasise respectful, well-informed, and strategic interactions with MPs to advance constituents’ concerns effectively.
Additional resources are provided for working with elected representatives, writing petitions, lobbying, and advocacy. The Easy Read Guide uses clear, everyday language and images to ensure understanding for various audiences. Tips from Oxfam about writing effective letters to MPs are also included in the resource.
By adopting a structured, respectful, and well-prepared approach aligned with best practices in civic engagement and parliamentary interaction, you can effectively meet and engage with MPs to advance your concerns.
[1] Robert’s Rules of Order - A classic guide on parliamentary procedure, less directly applicable to informal MP meetings. [2] GetUp's "Meet Your MP" Guide - A guide provided to Meeting Leaders to help them organise the meetings smoothly, including an Election Impact Report and a customised local cover letter to print and deliver to the MP.
- To maximize the impact of your advocacy efforts, consider researching resources on lobbying, petition writing, and civic engagement like the Easy Read Guide and Oxfam's tips on writing effective letters to MPs.
- For those who are planning to organize "Meet Your MP" events, GetUp offers a guide for Meeting Leaders, detailing how to conduct the meetings effectively, including an Election Impact Report and a customized local cover letter.
- Social change activists should recognize the importance of digital campaigning, as digital platforms offer opportunities to educate people, raise awareness, and mobilize communities for activism.
- In the realm of politics and policy-and-legislation, lifestyle choices and home-and-garden topics might not seem directly related, but policy changes can impact these areas, so staying informed on general-news and keeping relationships with elected representatives can make a difference.
- While professional engagement with Members of Parliament (MPs) requires a structured, respectful, and well-prepared approach, it's essential to remember that political events, such as elections, often drive the need for digital campaigning and activism to bring about social change.
