3 KEY ADVICE TO MY CONSTITUENCY LEGISLATORS _By Hon Fidel Odiase_

3 KEY ADVICE TO MY CONSTITUENCY LEGISLATORS

 _By Hon Fidel Odiase_ 

 1. Stay In Touch With Your Constituents* 

Communicate with your constituents. This is an overwhelming task, but it’s critical. Return phone calls, answer WhatsApp messages, e-mails, Facebook, and have town meetings. Let them know who you are, that you’re approachable and responsible, that you represent them. Besides, it makes the job a lot more interesting if you know the people you represent. It’s difficult to build a bond with your constituents simply through press releases. If you have any writing skills at all and you care about policy, it’s well worth the time to write a weekly column for the news media, start a blog or post your views on a Facebook page. It’s important to think through the issues before a decision and to explain to your constituents before taken some steps.

 2. Be A Problem Solver*

Controversial, even inflammatory issues will arise in your district/Constituency. Use your skills and your office to help the community find solutions. Work with the state agencies and local governments to find the best solution. Don’t take sides on clearly local issues, but serve as a resource for information to help find the best solution. Call on the experience and knowledge of members who have served longer than you, ask questions, do research, and make sure ar the positive influencer in the community.

3. Work With The Media* 

Don’t assume the media are your adversary. Reporters have a responsibility to inform the public, and they take it seriously. Be proactive. Contact reporters regularly to tell them about your position on issues and the work you are doing. Focus on the policy process and the issues, not on partisan differences and conflict. Present information that is easy to understand and use. Know your local newspapers’ deadlines. Call writers back promptly. Don’t expect them to use your press releases if you avoid their phone calls. When the media do a good job, acknowledge it. At the same time, don’t hesitate to ask for corrections of distortions in facts or other errors in stories.

 Of recent 🤔

 I notice my Legislators have not made mention of the Benin Auchi Expressway insecurity situation on the floor of the house 

 ... Let us be proactive in our constituency matters!

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