Lobbying 101

WHAT TO KEEP IN MIND

You are representing your workforce, your industry, and your community. Approach each meeting with clarity, discipline, and purpose.

WHAT WORKS

Introduce Yourself
State who you are, where you are from, and your connection to SMACNA.

Make It Local
Quantify your workforce, services, and impact within the district or state.

Be Concise
Deliver focused, high-value points. Prioritize clarity over volume.

Engage Staff Seriously
Staff are policy experts and key advisors—treat these meetings as critical.

Focus On Key Issues
Center your message on workforce challenges and operational impact.

Coordinate Your Team
Assign roles in advance—lead, storyteller, and closer.

Answer With Credibility
If unsure, commit to follow up. Accuracy builds trust.

Be The Expert on Your Operations
Your experience is your authority—use it.

Close With a Clear Ask
Request support for:

• American Energy Independence and Affordability Act;
• Airborne Act of 2026;
• Small Business Payment for Performance Act of 2025; and
• Indoor Air Quality and Healthy Schools Act of 2025.

End Professionally
Thank them, offer follow-up, and extend an invitation to visit.

COMMON PITFALLS TO AVOID

• Do not discuss PAC contributions in government offices.
• Avoid industry jargon—use clear, accessible language.
• Keep personal politics out of advocacy meetings.
• Do not skip appointments; if you need to cancel or are running late, please let Soapbox or SMACNA staff know as soon as possible.

WATCH: A CONVERSATION ABOUT LOBBYING

SMACNA's Denise Murphy McGraw and Seth Lennon sit down to outline to our members some of the basics when it comes to meeting your legislators and outline some critical strategies that could prove crucial in making your meeting effective.

LEARN MORE

For more information contact:
Denise Murphy McGraw
Special Assistant for Political & Government Affairs
dmurphymcgraw@smacna.org | 518-339-4535