Communication Best Practices

Keep it simple and to the point. Think of it this way: your audience wants to know, “What’s in it for me?” It’s your job to answer that question with a strong call to action. Here are some tips to help you do that.

Focus on benefits. Clearly state the practical advantages of a small business or entity writing a comment letter to express their concerns about a proposed regulation to a federal agency, and how doing so can assist in solving a particular problem they and many other small businesses are facing.

Focus on their needs. Address specific pain points and possible outcomes for your target audience.

Use plain language. Avoid technical jargon and explain complex ideas in a way that is easy to understand.

Provide evidence. If possible, back up your claims with data, and victories, to build credibility and trust.

Provide resources. Offer valuable resources like how-to guides or free educational courses with Advocacy professionals to equip your audience with the knowledge and tools needed to respond to your call to action.

Create a customer-centric experience. Put yourself in their shoes: Small business owners are busy. Lead with their point of view, not ours. This engages your audience and shows you’re knowledgeable and invested in their needs.

What do they need to know at this point in time? Focus only on what they need to know to move to the next step, rather than loading them up with useless information.