Our thanks to Carol Merton, City Councillor, Owen Sound and Dominique O’Rourke, MP, Guelph, for their support and insights.
Our big takeaway:
The skills you need to run a successful campaign are the ones you already have
Watch the video from Carol Merton. Order her book Running For Office- Lessons Learned here
Getting ready to plan your plan? These free PoliNow resources are great!
- Campaign planning resources from PoliNow
- We especially like this Announcing Your Candidacy Checklist. Very helpful!
Messaging 101
Messaging is important. Door knocking is more important. Here is a handout to help you think through campaign messaging so you can get door-knocking faster.
One more tool that is very helpful. As you think about your initial messaging, work on your Messaging Box.
This Message Box helps you clarify what you want to say about yourself, your opponent, and how voters may see you both. “Us on Us” is where you define your strengths, values, and why you are running. The other boxes help you anticipate what others may say about you and your opponent, so you can respond thoughtfully and stay grounded in your key messages. Used early, this tool gives you confidence that your campaign voice is intentional rather than reactive.