Note from Scott M. Borges – Associate Vice President and Director of Operations:
“More often than not, Door-to-Door Canvassing does not get the credit it deserves. Statistics show that a person is seven times more likely to vote for a candidate or an issue if they have a pleasant experience with someone at their door on the candidate or issues behalf. The C3 Public Strategies team wanted share a few tips on ways to make the door-to-door experience better, for not only the person a canvasser is talking to, but also the canvasser themselves.”
What to know before you go:
- Know Where You’ll be Walking: Having a general idea of the lay of the land will make you less likely to get turned around and will help you be more efficient.
- Be Quick on Your Feet: (That doesn’t necessarily mean running from house to house.) Rather it means to know the script and have your literature ready if you talk to someone, or if you have to reroute yourself because of an unforeseen issue.
- Make it a Conversation: When interacting with people, always try to make it conversational. Nobody wants to talk to a robot, so be sure not to speak like one.
- Keep in Touch: Be in contact with your manager so they know where you are, when you’re walking, and are aware of any updates you may receive throughout your day.
What to bring:
- Be Prepared: Make sure you have your equipment, such as your literature, tablet, walk maps, etc.
- Stay Hydrated: Always bring water, canvassers can walk miles in just one shift, so hydration is important to keep you healthy and focused.
- Stay Connected: You’ll want to bring your phone with you to clock in, conduct surveys and to make sure you’ll always be able to reach your manager with any updates or emergencies.
- Identify Yourself: Bring your name tag so when you’re knocking on doors, people know who you’re working with.
- Keep Charged: Portable phone chargers or car phone chargers are very important for canvassers working a longer shift to ensure that you have battery life for the entire duration of the day.
What to wear:
- Know What You’re Walking Into: Check the weather before you leave to make sure you’re dressing appropriately for the conditions that day.
- Business Casual: We ask our canvassers to dress comfortably but professionally (dark jeans, polo t-shirt) . We want to make sure you’re able to walk throughout your whole shift while also looking ready to represent our company and clients.
- Break Out Your Sneakers: It is important to wear shoes that you are able to walk long distances in.
- Don’t Forget an Extra Pair of Socks: You never know what may happen during a particular day. We always suggest bringing an extra pair of socks just in case. Dry feet are happy feet and happy feet knock more doors.
- Less is More: Shy away from big logos or apparel with vulgar language. While walking, you are representing C3, our team members and our clients. Remember, a first impression is everything!
