CAN Webinar: How to talk effectively to political representatives

This is a webinar (web based seminar) for cycling advocates on how to how to talk effectively to political representatives (MPs and city councillors). The format will be brief presentations from a panel of experienced political representatives, then open discussion.

The panel is:

We will discuss:
  • how to approach politicians and ask for a meeting
  • how to prepare for a meeting
  • what does a successful meeting look like
  • following up afterwards
The Webinar can be accessed from most Internet connected devices. You'll be able to hear other speakers, talk to them (though not all at once!), see any PowerPoint presentations we use, and post text messages. You'll need speakers or headphones, and a microphone if you want to talk. A headset microphone is ideal. You'll need Adobe Flash which that is pretty standard, but it could be worth checking you've got an up to date version. If you are using a tablet or smartphone you may need to download an app. It will be good idea to check your system a day or so beforehand to see if you need to update any software etc.

To ensure a free exchange of views, the webinar will NOT be recorded.

Links:
  • To register (which means you get notifications etc, and helps us with planning)
  • To access the meeting on the day without registering
  • Short user guide
  • System Test - Do the microphone test (can you see the wavy line moving when you speak?) and speaker test (can you hear the audio?).
Some additional hints:
  • To access audio controls on a Windows computer, go to control panel> hardware and sound> manage audio devices
  • Skype should not be active, since it can interfere with the webinar

 

Groups audience: 
- Private group -

Comments

  • Research the person you're meeting with
  • Have an ice breaker ("how's your dog?")
  • Have a local person in group meeting with politician(s).
  • 3-6 is a good size of group to meet with a politician, but can be more. 
  • Meeting doesn't have to be at office, could be cafe, or a tour of sites.
  • Aim for a cordial understanding of views, not necessarily agreement.
  • Focus on the positive. Stress the benefits to the community as a whole, not just people who bike.  Politicians are always thinking about voting numbers.
  • Have data to back up your arguments, but don't lecture
  • Concentrate on issues, not personalities.
  • "Politicians love being invited to events"
  • Making submissions is also an important part of influencing politicians.
There were several references to Janette Sadik-Khan's Streetfight (2016) - essential reading for people advocating for biking and walking in cities.