Contacting by personal visit or telephone is also very valuable. If the elected official is not available, accept an appointment with a high level staff person or the staffer designated to handle the issue. Try to get a commitment in writing. If not, write back expressing your understanding of the meeting. It's important to get the substance of conversations with elected officials on key issues in writing.
Legislators appreciate a pat on the back.
Compliment if you can, but always thank them. It's the right thing to do. Remember, too, this is an election year. Elected officials will take opportunities such as parades and town meetings in the district to meet voters. You need to be there.