Ask volunteers to meet at a central location before the canvass is scheduled to begin, to allow time for training, location assignments and questions. Be sure to address any and all questions before the canvass; we don’t want to send confused volunteers into the field!

Make sure volunteers are able to get to their assigned locations. If budget permits, offer public transit vouchers. Set up carpools if necessary.

Try to schedule the canvass during a time when most people will be at home (6-9pm during the week, or weekend afternoons).

Be sure to consider the safety of your volunteers. If canvassing in a high-crime neighborhood, be sure to send volunteers in pairs, and during daylight hours.

When tabling, choose a high-traffic area (outside of supermarkets or shopping areas, community functions, public transit stations during rush hour, etc). Be sure to ask the proprietor’s permission before setting up shop.

If you want to play music or use a bullhorn, be sure to secure the necessary permits.

Tips for Canvassing Voters

Do

• Identify yourself as a volunteer with your union
• Keep your contacts concise and to the point
• Thank the voter for their time
• Be positive about the qualities of the issues/candidates
• Ask if you can count on them to support the union candidate or ticket

Don’t

• Argue with the voters or try to convince them they are wrong.
• Push the voter if he/she is not interested or seems annoyed

Questions? Contact Melanie Hallahan at mhallahan@calaborfed.org.