Loyal reader E. Degeneres writes, “My company’s GSA Schedule is about to be cancelled due to lack of sales.  This is un-American!  Should I contact my Congressman? Your federal elected official will likely respond to your compliant, E., and will probably be happy to send a letter on your behalf.  The trick to getting the most out of your official, though, is knowing when, and when not, to use them.  In your case, have you tried going up the chain of command in your acquisition center first?  A branch chief or center director may be able to provide you with relief without the delays and possible bruised feelings of a “Congressional”.  If, however, no one at GSA (or another agency under other circumstances) appears to be listening, then engaging Congressional help is sometimes your only option.  Remember to frame your issue as plainly as possible, bring records, and be prepared to draft any letter your official may agree to send.  Be specific, too, about what you want from the official.  Remember that you’ll likely meet with a staff member and may or may not meet the official him/herself.  The best shot at an in-person meeting is in the official’s district or state office, not in Washington.  Elected officials won’t ensure you win an award.  They will, though, make sure you get a fair shake.  That’s all you need to dance in the aisles.