With compelling stories we can demonstrate that we are doing a good job, highlight important accomplishments, show that we are making a positive difference in the lives of real people in Wisconsin, and justify a continued investment in tobacco control.

Recruiting Volunteers to Testify

• Identify people who can attend - they don't need to be experts, just people with authentic stories who are able to speak from the heart.
• Plan ahead. Give plenty of prep and lead time and recruit more than you need.

Elements of Effective Testimony

• Make it brief. Speak for two minutes or less.
• Focus on the one thing you want listeners to remember - using a story is the best way to be memorable and grab attention.
• Story prompts can help you get started and stay on track.
• Key messages from the program can support your story.
• Put it in writing and use as a guide, but look them in the eyes and speak from the heart.
• Putting together effective testimony is like making a sandwich with five key components.
  • Handout: It's Like a Sandwich
  • Worksheet: It's Like a Sandwich

Making the Most of Your Testimony

Give your testimony a shelf life beyond the hearing with these tactics.

• Send a copy of your testimony to your local elected officials with a note about your submission.
• If your elected official is on the committee you testified in front of, send a note thanking them for their attention and enclose a copy of your testimony.
• Turn your testimony into a letter to the editor for your local newspaper and send a copy to your elected official.

Joint Committee on Finance Specific Resources