Canvassing Tips

Information generously provided by the Arizona Democratic Party. For more information visit http://www.azdem.org/

Effective Canvassing

As a Democratic Neighborhood Leader, you know your neighborhood best. You are a local "opinion maker." This means your neighbors may come to rely on you for information about the Democratic Party, candidates from your area, and local issues.

Your canvass will prove invaluable in your role as a neighborhood Democratic volunteer. You will learn about the voters in your area, what issues are important, what messages people are receiving from our candidates, and how the voters feel about the Party.

What is a canvass?

Definition: To solicit political support or to determine opinions or sentiments. To seek votes. A personal solicitation of votes or survey the public opinion. -- Webster’s Dictionary

Why is canvassing important?

Face-to-face voter contact is the most effective way to meet people, exchange information, and talk about the Democratic Party and candidates. Make sure you follow through on all requests for help. If you don't know the answers to questions, say, "I don’t know, but I will find out and get back to you."

Recruiting Volunteers

While you are canvassing, you will meet people who want to participate in the Democratic Party.  The best way to recruit volunteers is by direct face to face contact with the potential volunteer.

"Service" is the key word to remember in neighborhood canvassing.

The voters in your area will come to rely on you and the Democratic Party for answers to their questions about the Party, where we stand on the issues, and information about candidates and local issues.

1. Meet everyone. Start a relationship.
2. Let them know "they are not alone," that there are Democrats and others in the area that agree with them.
3. Find out what issues are most important to them and talk with them about the Democratic Vision.
4. Make sure everyone in the house is registered to vote.
5. Recruit volunteers.
6. NEVER try to convince someone you are right and they are wrong. We’ll never gain support trying to convince people they are wrong.
7. Listen to their feedback.

Let them know you’re a Democratic resource for them, and there are Democratic activities they can take part in and candidates they can vote for who share their values.

Be prepared when you canvass with:

1. Precinct map (if available)
2. Walking list (if available)
3. Pencils and pens
4. Literature (Democratic Doorhangers)
5. Voter registration forms
6. Something to carry your materials in (i.e. clipboard or folder)

Tips for when you canvass:

• Work in pairs when possible for safety, support, and fun
• Determine optimal time of day to visit
• Be prepared with a script: what will you say?
• Wear comfortable shoes!
• Bring water
• Don’t leave any information in someone’s mailbox
• If you aren’t comfortable walking up to a particular house, skip it. Remember, safety first!