Mastering the Art of Congressional Testimony: Writing for Congressional Hearings

A Deep Dive into Congressional Testimony

For those who testify before Congress, the written statement holds exceptional importance. Mastering the craft of writing for congressional hearings involves understanding the audience, the process, and the structure of a compelling statement.

Understanding the Audience

Knowing your audience is a fundamental aspect of effective communication. In this course, you'll learn about the diverse set of stakeholders that comprise your audience when testifying before Congress. This includes lawmakers with varying degrees of familiarity with the subject matter, their staff, constituents, and the media.

The Process of Congressional Hearings

This course provides an in-depth understanding of the congressional hearing process. From invitations to testify, preparation of statements, to the actual hearing and follow-up, each step has unique requirements and expectations for written materials.

The Structure of a Compelling Statement

Learn how to structure your written statement in a clear, concise, and compelling manner. This involves shaping your message, providing the necessary evidence and arguments, and crafting a conclusion that leaves a lasting impact.

Case Studies

Through case studies, you'll gain insights into the dos and don'ts of writing for congressional hearings. By examining real-world examples, you'll learn from both successful and less successful attempts to influence lawmakers through written testimony.