Elections – The Race to Lead
This can really be the fun part. As the election for student government officers gets closer, you’re bound to see flyers, posters, email, and other messages urging you to vote for candidates and their platforms. These platforms represent the goals and ideals on which the candidates stand. And while these may seem like personality contests – and we have to admit that they often are – these students are willing to represent your interests and listen to your grievances. Offer your time and skills to help their goal become a reality. Or simply vote, when it comes time – it just takes a few minutes of your time. You’ll be informed of voting times and location, and in some cases, you might be able to vote online.
However, if you’re intent on running for the executive board of your student government, you will need to persuade voters of your skills and your effectiveness. The effectiveness of your campaign depends on a few factors:
- Volunteers – people who will help you get out your message by creating the flyers and posters, send the emails, and speak on your behalf in various settings
- Campaign platform – A platform is something you stand on, which is why this is such a good metaphor for what a candidate does with his or her mission to improve student life and represent your needs. Make your objectives clear and realistic, and don’t make promises you can’t keep!
- Marketing and promotion – Come up with a couple of catchy slogans that represent the major themes of your platform, reinforce your “branding” or name recognition, and attract voters. Use a variety of media for your message: flyers, posters, ads in the campus paper, emails and text-messaging, the campus radio station, television channel, and other tools.
- Strategies – Create a schedule of events and functions at which you will appear and speak. Show up at fund raisers, community service activities, and then make sure that people know you’ll be there. Then let them know you were there.