2006/08/16
Constituent appreciation for dummies
Instructions for mayors. Hypothetical mayors, of course.
Do:
When a constituent writes you a letter, have an aide type up an acknowledgement that includes some kind of hint that someone's read the letter. Take the four seconds to sign the letter yourself. Even the head of your Industrial Development Agency took the time to personalize a response, actually touching on a concern your constituent brought up. Hypothetically, of course.
Don't:
Collect addresses at an official gathering, then send a form letter with a stamped signature that says, "I appreciate your input." You've already made it clear that you don't. Hypothetically, of course.
Do:
When a constituent writes you a letter, have an aide type up an acknowledgement that includes some kind of hint that someone's read the letter. Take the four seconds to sign the letter yourself. Even the head of your Industrial Development Agency took the time to personalize a response, actually touching on a concern your constituent brought up. Hypothetically, of course.
Don't:
Collect addresses at an official gathering, then send a form letter with a stamped signature that says, "I appreciate your input." You've already made it clear that you don't. Hypothetically, of course.
