I have ran a couple of campaigns, and worked with others. I am bringing this up now, because if you want to run for any office, now is the time to start the planning. I am going to give some tips to help anyone out.
1. Decide what you want to run for. What this means is do your research. Are you wanting to go for local? state? congress? Look into who the incumbent is, and their popularity. If there is a popular incumbent, it will be a huge uphill battle. Where are your strengths? I can not stress this enough, do not run for an office you have no idea what it entails, or that you are not going to be your best. thats the quickest way for a one term position, and will hurt you if you run for another position.
2. Get out and get to know the people. Talk to them, find out what they want to see in a candidate. For example, if everyone in your area concerns are economy, run on that, do not run on your thoughts on other topics.
3. Get your team together now!! You will need at least someone to be your spokesperson(who will help write any speeches, social media post, etc.), a secretary, and people who are willing to go out and talk for you.
4. Be sure to set up meet and greets. Let the people know that you are on their side. THis lets them know that you are working for them.
5. Check election laws. Start now to get your signatures to get on the ballot or you will be paying a fee.
6. Be active on social media. Create Facebook page, TikTOk, Instagram and be active. Be sure to reply to any comments that are made, even if they disagree with you. One thing that will be beneficial is even if they disagree with you, you can win over their vote by being respectful an not ignoring them.
7. Before giving any speeches, practice it in front of your team. Have them ask you questions that could pop up after the speech. Do not get mad when they offer suggestions. Your team is working to get you elected, and take their advice.
8. Run on your platform, not against your opponents platform. Let people know why they should elect YOU, not why they should not vote against your opponent. If asked a question about your opponent, do not give in. For example if someone says “Your opponent has came out and said that pot should be illegal, with the majority of people in favor of legalization, why do you think your opponent would believe that?” the correct answer would be “You would have to ask him/her/them that. However, I believe that pot should be legalized because…..(give your reasons)
Following these tips will help you go a long way. If you win great!!! however, in victory, do not brag publicly, or say anything that will be turned around and used against you. If you lose, lose with pride. Congratulate your opponent. Publicly thank your team and thank everyone for going out to vote. . People will remember this the next time you run
I hope all this helps you out. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me!