Marketing yourself in an election is much the same as marketing a brand or a service. It is not necessarily about solutions or positions on issues, but rather about getting your name and identity out in front of the people. You may not be a marketing expert, but if you are going to run for office, you need to learn how to present a positive image to the public and gain their support.
Start Early
It is important to start your campaign early and keep it going strong right up until the election day. Start by sending out postcards and informational materials months in advance. Follow that up with interviews and visible public appearances at events. Continue sending out promotional materials and being active in your community. Do not underestimate the exposure of a telephone or door-to-door campaign either.
Get In the Public Eye
Most political marketing has a lot to do with appearances. Putting yourself in the public eye as much as possible is a big factor. Give interviews to local media, take part in charitable events, organize opportunities to speak to the press or a crowd, start social media sites and use them continuously. Take out ads in print, radio and television. The objective here is to get your name seen by as many people as possible.
Marketing Materials
Marketing materials can be anything from a simple postcard to things like custom t-shirts and promo mugs. These promotional products can be imprinted with your company’s logo and contact details so every time they are used by current and potential supporters, you gain marketing exposure. Some candidates running for office in Manchester and Nashua have used promotional products from Halo.com to get their name out into the community. If you can design items that people in your area will actually use, or wear, you’re more likely to be recognized as your campaign unfolds. Design posters, brochures, postcards, flyers, signs, banners, etc. – anything that can permeate the public’s mind and view.
Have a Logo
One potentially overlooked item is a logo. Sometimes names or slogans are not enough as they are quickly skimmed over or forgotten in a busy world. On the other hand, a definable logo is a visual cue that people associate with your brand. Just think of all the immediately recognizable logos out there. Enlist a graphic designer or print shop to design a good logo for your campaign.
Build a Website
The final piece of advice is to create a web presence. The easiest way to do this is create a website where you can link all your social media and blogs. This creates a hub of exposure where people can easily find you and your positions.
The important part of all these tips is to put them into motion early in your campaign or before you even get started. You can have great solutions and a popular position, but if you cannot put that out in front of the voters, it will hardly matter when election day comes around.
