Make sure you speak clearly, loudly and slowly when speaking to an official or their staff.
Be professional and respectful. Establish credibility by communicating your position in a courteous, factual manner. Taking a firm position on an issue is fine, but respect their position if it differs from yours.
If calling a U.S. Senator, U.S. Representative or Florida Cabinet member, ask to speak to the aide who handles the issue about which you are calling. For other officials, make sure you have the official’s title and name correct. In all probability, you will only be able to speak to the official’s aide, which is just as good, sometimes better, than speaking to the elected official. Do not demand to speak to the official.
Begin the call by stating that you would like to make a comment to [elected official’s title and name] about [specific bill, law, agenda item, problem or issue].
The person on the other end will likely ask for your name and address. If it is not requested, be sure to state your name and address. If you are a constituent, let them know that.
Be prepared, be brief and to the point. It helps to prepare a script so you know exactly what you want to say.
Provide the specific identity of the bill, law, agenda item or issue about which you are calling. If you know the bill number, statute or agenda item, state it.
Choose the one or two strongest points that will be most effective in persuading the official to support your position. If you have facts to back up your opinion, state them.
Be specific in the action you are requesting.
Conclude with a thank you for their time!