Winning strategies

With Utah’s interim sessions in full swing – click here for a calendar of upcoming dates – it’s an ideal time to reach out to the legislators who will soon make decisions on the proposed bills that could affect your local or special service district’s operations.

Introduce yourself and let them know what your district does and how it improves your constituents’ quality of life. And, by attending the sessions that apply to your field of interest, you can get a sneak peek at legislation under consideration.

It all lays a firm foundation for next winter’s Utah State Legislative General Session, where those bills can become law. While UASD is your voice on Capitol Hill, it helps to make that local connection before it comes to a vote.

Here are a few ways to make a positive impression:

• Be a good listener. Engage in the conversation. Acknowledge what you’re hearing. Be on your best behavior; say “please” and “thank you” – they never go out of style – and see for yourself how often the favor is reciprocated. It opens minds to what you have to say!

• Make sure your body is sending the same message. A smile goes a long way in warming up a conversation. The same goes for comfortable eye contact, but don’t turn it into a stare-down! Have a relaxed stance. Practice in front of a mirror until it comes naturally.

• Finally, while it pays to be prepared, when it comes down to a face-to-face meeting, speak from the heart. There’s no substitute for sincerity and that comes through in the interest you show in what they have to say, the passion you bring to your thoughts and self-confidence that tells them you really believe what you’re saying.

Go in there knowing you’ve got this down! The door’s open. Make the most of the opportunities it brings, both today and down the road.