Gaining exposure in the community is vital to running a successful campaign.
Whether it's for mayor of your town or the school board in your district, local political campaigns can be a challenge. Organizing volunteers, gaining media exposure, and getting your message to the voting public are only a few of the issues you will need to address for a successful campaign. Technology makes it a lot easier to become a relevant candidate, but running a campaign still takes a great deal of preparation and long hours.
Instructions
1. Determine the number of voters you are trying to reach during your campaign. Check previous election results to determine voter turnout for the position and how many votes winners had in previous years. Once you have these numbers, you'll have an idea about the budget you will need.
2. Create a budget with only the essential costs in mind. You will not be able to determine how much money you will raise for your campaign, so budgeting your needs gives you a minimum goal to attain. The rest of the money raised can be used as needed once your basic budget goal has been met.
3. Hire a staff to help you run your campaign. According to Benjamin Katz, a former campaign manager, you must have at least three positions filled. You will need a fundraiser, a treasurer and a manager. These three positions will ensure your success and keep you from getting distracted while on the campaign trail.
4. Schedule campaign fundraisers. Your staff will handle setting up opportunities for raising money, but as the face of the campaign in a small local election, you should be sure to attend any and all events that you can.
5. Get your message to the voters. Now that you have everything in place, it's time to campaign. Modern technology makes access to people easier than ever, and running a campaign using social media is essential to success. The more exposure to the voters you can get, the better your chances of winning the election. Attend public events, challenge opponents to debates, and hold rallies for your supporters. In a small town, the more you are known by the voters, the better your chances of victory.
