Published 7/13/09 4 months ago | Views 89 Grade C Education / Legal Issues

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Grade C Views 89
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So you want to run for office--"get into the world of politics?" Many qualified candidates fail to reach their goals because they make the same mistakes. Major problems can be solved by drawing up a plan to follow during the campaign, in effect, a "road map to victory". A campaign plan allows you to know where the pitfalls and strengths lie. It can even give a healthy estimate on funds needed to achieve victory and where to find it. These are some of tips and guides to help candidates run a more effective campaign. Check into how to get started in local politics there are several options and steps.

Step 1

Make sure you really want to run for political office and that your family is willing.

Step 2

Bet yourself and your entire family that you can do it.

Step 3

Appoint a capable core--campaign team: manager, treasurer and/or fund-raising chair, public relations, speech/position paper editor, volunteer coordinator. Number of core people varies with each campaign.

Step 4

Research issues in the district you're running in and brainstorm with your core..

Step 5

Research your opponent(s).

Step 6

Develop your message, your logo and a simple memorable campaign slogan.

Step 7

Get access to your party's database. In addition, any other consumer demographics you can find or buy. Database, database, database. Everything always goes back to the database.

Step 8

Develop a fund-raising plan about mailings, speaking, etc.

Step 9

Send out requests, telephone and meet with major party contributors for initial contributions to fuel the beginning campaign.

Step 10

Generate an initial campaign literature print piece with your background and picture.

Step 11

Order stacks of donor envelopes with a volunteer form printed right on them.

Step 12

Have your Web site set up and ready with ability to collect money and gather voter data before you formally announce.

Step 13

Make your announcement at an event with the maximum press coverage possible.

Step 14

Get petitions signed and delivered on time.

Step 15

Develop additional graphics, posters, print materials, etc.

Step 16

Investigate multi-media video, TV, Web, etc.

Step 17

Coordinate letter writing campaigns to the editors.

Step 18

Prepare for debates and interviews (practice seriously).

Step 19

Organize and motivate volunteers: Phone banking addressing envelopes, house parties, door-to-door etc. Most campaigns are won on the ground.

Tips

Constantly watch your physical image. Carry yourself with confidence. Pay attention to your wardrobe and grooming habits. Use mouthwash and deodorant... and go light on the cologne (or perfume).
Practice public speaking. Hire a coach if necessary.
Research: If you want to win, embrace the issues that concern voters. Don't make the mistake of assuming your issues are theirs. Read the papers — especially letters to the editor. Read opinion polls. Attend civic meetings. Attend a focus group. Check out internet forums on local news sites.
Know your prospective opponents and the incumbent. More research. Read everything you can find about them and their records.

Warnings

Don't decide to run for office impulsively. Many successful candidates make the decision to run and lay groundwork years before an election.
Make sure the decision is your choice. Don't be pressured into it. But you should realize most of the good presidents didn't want to run for office.
Do it because you want to serve the community through that office. Don't do it because you don't like the incumbent or the other candidates or you're mad because the township allowed an industrial park to be built off your backyard.
Campaigns are expensive — Expect to fund at least the preliminary stage of your campaign. If you are a good fundraiser and have capable volunteers, you can grow your warchest.
Campaigns are time-consuming — It's not fair to supporters if you're going to be a "Weekend Campaigner." Races aren't won by part-timers.
Respond to negative attacks positively. Mud-slinging is never an option, and it can hurt your campaign. Plus, your opponent will have ammo for the next round.
Take a hard look at yourself — Make sure you and your spouse have impeccable personal, financial and professional records.
Develop a thick skin — You will be the victim of ad hominem attacks and your response can turn on or turn away voters.
Consult family members — living in the public eye will have ramifications for them as well as you.
Do take this wikihow with a grain of salt... public office (and how to get there) is not this easy... If you are a person of faith you must do this for the right reasons.