As your mid-Missouri membership organization embraces #AstroNetTurfRoots to engage with elected officials, there are a few things we recommend you steer clear of.
The Top 6 Things to Avoid in #AstroNetTurfRoots:
- Being a Pest: Don’t use ‘form letter’ type messaging, and don’t blindly attack people who have no idea who you are. People who behave this way online are called ‘frequent flyers’ and they are largely ignored and dismissed — and blocked.
- Forgetting City and County Leaders: Regulations that impact you are often occurring at or being discussed at this level.
- Trolling: Don’t attack, start online fights, or join existing online fights. Be professional.
- Avoiding Respectful Disagreement: Don’t be afraid to follow and sensibly engage with your loyal and respected opposition. (You’ll be surprised when you need to expand your base of allies who will step forward.)
- Using PR-Speak: Use personal terms, and speak honestly.
- “Thomas Dolby”-ing Them: Don’t try to “Thomas Dolby” officials in your interactions, blinding them with science.
If your membership organization is trying to engage with and influence the hearts and minds of elected officials in Missouri, don’t miss this post on the 17 Ways Membership Organizations Can Practice #AstroNetTurfRoots
