Running for office is a significant commitment that requires careful planning and time management. Avery Bourne, a former state legislator with eight years of experiencer, shares actionable insights for candidates navigating the time demands of a campaign.
“Ultimately, you want to have the amount of time to do the job the right way,” Bourne advises. From assessing your voter base to balancing family commitments, her tips are essential for anyone considering a run for office.
Key Factors in Determining Time Commitment
1. Assess the Size of Your Voter Base
The time needed for your campaign largely depends on the number of voters you need to reach:
- Local Office: Smaller races, like city council or school board, often allow for direct contact with voters. You may have the opportunity to meet each one personally.
- Larger Races: Campaigns for Congress or statewide positions require additional focus on fundraising and media outreach to connect with a much larger audience.
Pro Tip: Calculate how many voters you need to win over and adjust your strategy based on your race’s scale.
2. Plan Backwards from Election Day
Bourne recommends working from the election date to create a clear campaign timeline:
- Break down the number of voters you need to contact over the campaign period.
- Increase outreach efforts as Election Day approaches.
- Factor in existing commitments, like work or family, to create a realistic schedule.
Balancing Family and Campaign Life
Running for office doesn’t have to mean sacrificing family time. Bourne highlights creative ways to stay connected:
- Include Your Family in Events: “I tried to look for events at least once a week that I could take my kids to,” Bourne shares. These moments provide valuable family time while keeping you active on the campaign trail.
- Maximize Travel Time: Use car rides to and from campaign events as an opportunity to bond with family members.
Leverage Volunteers to Save Time
A strong support network can make a significant difference in how much time you need to dedicate to voter outreach:
- Recruit a Volunteer Team: Even ten volunteers knocking on doors can dramatically reduce your workload.
- Delegate Responsibilities: Share tasks like canvassing, event planning, and phone banking to free up your time for strategic priorities.
Start Small and Know Your Limits
Not everyone has the time for a full-scale campaign. Bourne suggests being honest with yourself about your capacity:
- Start with Local Races: Begin with positions that align with your current availability, such as city council or school board, and scale up later as your schedule allows.
- Support Other Campaigns: If time constraints prevent you from running effectively, consider helping another candidate through fundraising or volunteering.
“If you cannot commit enough time to do it the right way, then maybe commit your time to fundraising for somebody else,” Bourne advises.
The Bottom Line
Running for office is a time-intensive endeavor, but with careful planning and a clear strategy, it’s possible to balance campaign demands with other commitments. By understanding your voter base, working backwards from Election Day, and leveraging your support network, you can create a sustainable campaign plan.
Whether you’re running for local office or a statewide position, Bourne’s advice offers a roadmap for success: “Have the amount of time to do the job the right way, or focus your efforts elsewhere until you can.”
Optimize Your Campaign Strategy
Are you ready to take the next step in your political journey? Start planning your campaign timeline, recruit volunteers, and ensure your family remains a part of the process. With the right approach, you can make the most of your time and run a winning campaign.
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