Calling Politicians on the Phone

• Introduce yourself and identify yourself as a constituent by providing your postal code or address.
• Ask to speak to the MP directly, but do not be surprised if you must speak to the MP’s staff instead. Staff can help move your issue forward.
• Give the reason for your call and explain your concern.
• Focus on one or two main concerns per phone call. Do not unload on the MP or their staff with all of your political concerns at one time.
• Ask clear and pointed questions that require some explanation.
• Ask for a commitment to action.

Sending Emails to Politicians

• An email is just as effective as a letter by post as Parliamentary staff handle both in the same way.
• When sending e-mails to an MP or other elected representative, be sure to follow many of the same standards in Writing a Letter to an MP.
• The email should be brief and focused, with the correct style of address for the representative.
• Be kind with language, and make sure to ask the representative to respond to your email.
• Include your address and postal code so that the representative is aware that you are a part of their constituency.
  
  

Tips for Calling Members of Parliament or Members of the Senate.

• Tell the MP that this issue will matter to you in the next election.
• Avoid revealing party affiliation or sympathies. If you show that your vote is already cast for a certain party, the MP may not have the incentive to respond to your requests.
• Be as brief as possible while outlining oncerns. Show that you respect their time.
• Remain calm and respectful in dialogue. Be willing to work with them.
• Follow up: Find out what actions were taken as a result of your call, and respond appropriately.