While this appeared in our latest newsletter, we figure there are enough of you handling election press and social media who could use a down-and-dirty list of ways to get the most out of your communications in the midst of campaign chaos:
Stick to your message! Now is not the time to change your essential value statement and persuasion approach. Sure, capitalize on what’s happening day-by-day, but make sure it fits within your existing messaging framework.
Pitch only newsworthy stories. Please don’t waste political reporters’ time unless you have something they can use. If it has more than one news element (conflict, timeliness, proximity, impact, novelty, prominence/celebrity), go for it. So the average volunteer canvass, no… a Republicans for Democrat canvass led by a former elected official, yes.
Be ready for rapid response. Before anything hits the fan, make sure your facts are at your fingertips and your spokespeople are at the ready. That way, if your issue or candidate is attacked, you’ll be able to hit back quickly, whether it’s in the media, online, mailers or on the phones.
Capture tons of photos, videos and stories. Your online presence should invite your supporters to be a part of your team and create a personal connection. Post photos, videos and even blogs that tell the story of your campaign so your folks feel like they’re on the trail with you.
Ensure visual and message consistency. While this probably sounds like no fun, you should actually be bored by your own digital ads. This is because they should distill your essential campaign message and visuals and hammer it home over and over and over.
Best of luck as we head toward November – may we all win big!