Condo Media - May 2017 - 18

Homeowner's Corner

Engaged Citizens
How to Leave the Greatest Impact
[by Matthew Green ]

Did you know that an individualized
email to your legislator has nearly the
same impact as an in-person visit?
This is true, according to findings by the
Congressional Management Foundation
(CMF), which just released its latest report,
"Citizen-Centric Advocacy: The Untapped
Power of Constituent Engagement."
For more than a decade, the CMF
has conducted research and published
its findings, which have helped shape
the way we advocate. The CMF surveys
congressional office leaders on the impact
that different methods of communication
have on officials. Of particular importance
is when officials have not already arrived
at a firm decision on an issue.

CAI-NE SILVER PARTNER PROFILE

Mercantile Property
Management Corp., AAMC®
Proud recipient of the 2016 CAI-NE
Management Company of the year award!
Since 1987 Mercantile Property Management has become one of
the largest locally owned and operated condominium management
companies in Southeastern Massachusetts, handling over 50
associations. Our experienced portfolio managers hold professional
designations such as CPM®, PCAM®, AMS®, CMCA®, CPO® and licensed
construction supervisor. We utilize a specialized condominium software
to handle accounting, maintenance, website, and the communication
needs of your community.
For additional information visit our website
www.mercantileproperty.com.
DON'T WAIT - CONTACT US TODAY!
800-696-9449

Form emails, such as what is linked
to in the calls to action CAI sends, are
effective but are unfortunately half as
influential as an individualized email or
in-person visit. What if you don't have
the time to draft a personalized email or
drop by the district office? Phone calls
to your representatives' offices are an
effective and efficient way to advocate,
according to the report.
CRITICAL COMPONENTS
OF YOUR MESSAGE
What is most important to convey during your communication, whether it is
in-person, via email, or telephone? The
study found the following:
1 Identify yourself as a constituent
2 State your reasons for supporting the
bill or issue
3 Offer a personal story related to the
bill or issue
4 Provide information about the impact
the bill would have on the district or
state
5 Make a specific request or "ask" (such
as, support this bill or oppose this bill)
The CAI Government and Public
Affairs Department strives to engage
members in meaningful advocacy
efforts by providing readily available
language to make it easier to discuss
key issues with legislators. But in
order to show strength in numbers,
CAI needs members to reach out to
officials (local, state, and federal)
and tell their story. Next time you see
a CAI call to action that resonates,
please take the time to call, write, or
visit your legislator.

Offices in Weymouth and Bourne
■ MATTHEW GREEN IS THE DIRECTOR OF STATE
AFFAIRS WITH CAI NATIONAL'S GOVERNMENT AND
PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT.

18

CONDOMEDIA
http://www.mercantileproperty.com http://www.mercantileproperty.com
Condo Media - May 2017

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Condo Media - May 2017
