Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/1537409
Protection. Education. Connection. There's an app for that at ascpskincare.com/app 73 Honesty Is Nonnegotiable While political TV shows imply that you can be creative with the truth to get your way in politics, reality is different. The best thing to do when you don't know how to answer a question is to tell the legislator or regulator that you aren't sure but you will get back to them. It's important to be a trustworthy source of accurate information for legislators and regulators. Intentionally providing inaccurate information—even once—can ruin your credibility, so it's better to play it safe and be honest, even if the answer isn't what the legislator wants to hear. GENERAL GOOD FORM While not strict rules, there are other key essentials to know when advocating for your profession. These tips will help you have smooth interactions, build stronger relationships, and make powerful impressions as you navigate the world of public policy. • Brevity is key—This applies to visits, calls, emails, and other interactions. Elected officials appreciate you showing respect for their time. Their schedules are often packed, and they have a staggeringly broad range of issues they constantly juggle. Being concise helps save them time and makes your interaction more memorable. • Address a legislator by their title—This means calling them senator, representative, assembly member, chairman, delegate, etc., according to their position. Make sure not to mix up titles between legislative chambers; some might take offense to being called representative, for example, if they are a senator. • You'll hear the word no—If you continue to get an answer you don't like from a legislator or regulator, you should apply your efforts elsewhere. Spending all your energy with someone who isn't going to take your side is not a good use of your time. Continually needling them after they've told you no multiple times will also likely damage your relationship with them. • Respect boundaries—While it may seem convenient to make your case to a lawmaker you run into in public, remember that they are people deserving of a private life. If you encounter someone you'd like to speak with, it's fine to quickly say hello and introduce yourself, but you should make an appointment with their staff if you want to discuss anything advocacy-related with them. THE BASICS OF YOUR MEETING What should you say in a meeting, on a call, or in an email? Start with a clear and concise point. Legislators want to hear what you have to say, but they often have only a few free minutes. This is where an "elevator pitch" comes in handy. If you can make your point in the time it takes to ride an elevator, you'll be in good shape. Always let the legislator or staff know if you are a constituent. Name the city or county in the district where you live or work. If time allows, present your issue, opinion, or request with a personal story—let them know why it's important to you. If there's a study with data to back up your position, attach a one-page sheet to the email or leave a printed handout with the legislator. Remember: Be passionate and well-informed but not emotional. Never argue or lose your cool. If you can tell they are done with the discussion, don't force it. In-Person Meeting Guide If possible, it's best to schedule an in-person meeting with a legislator or regulator a week or two ahead of time. Go through their staff scheduler if one's available. Don't get frustrated if you're rescheduled or bumped—legislators often have little control over their schedules. Since this meeting is face-to-face, business or business-casual attire is always appropriate. If you're participating in a lobby day with other estheticians, it's also appropriate to wear a clean work uniform. A group of advocates wearing matching uniforms draws attention and shows a unified front. Remember: Be passionate and well-informed but not emotional. Never argue or lose your cool.