The people who seem to be the most clueless about communication are incumbent politicians.
And the area that they seems to be the most clueless about is opt-in/opt-out communication of any kind. Initiate any contact with them and you’re added to their snail and email mailing lists — whether you want to be added or not.
Today’s example: Take a look at the end of this e-survey form from a member of my state’s congressional delegation:
Do or die. Opt in is not an option.
The cynic in me says that constiuent input is not really wanted here and it’s just an underhanded way to populate a database. After all, I’m used to members of Congress trying to scam me.
But I like this Congressman and think he’s a good guy. And he actually does a really good job getting out and making personal one-on-one connections with people in the district. So I’ll give him the benefit of the doubt and assume that he doesn’t know that opt-in communications are not only much more effective for the sender, but are also just the right thing to do.
It’s basic e-communication 101 and anyone with any common sense should know it, but politicians seem to be blissfully ignorant.
But think about this. These ham handed / bone headed moves are done by the same people who are making big decisions that affect every aspect of your life. Sleep well.
Chris Houchens 