Leading Shifts How to get started with preparing for and leading a shift, and instructions for running different types of shifts.
Running Shifts
Shift Resources
Running Shifts
Depending on the phase of the campaign, there are different types of shifts you can lead. This may include petitioning, door knocking, tabling, phone/text banking, or postcard writing. Here is a checklist with steps to help get you started.
Before Your Shift
Find a location
For canvassing activities, consider upcoming events or public spaces with a lot of foot traffic where you can easily reach voters
Postcard writing or text banking can be hosted in public spaces such as vegan restaurants or coffee shops, or in your home or private space
Consider how many people the location can comfortably fit, and cap attendance as needed
Prepare supplies
Think through any resources that may be needed, and ensure that you’re able to supply them (e.g. making sure you have postcards & pens)
Consider feeding people
Depending on the time and location, consider whether food should be served. *Note: It’s common, but not required, to provide a simple dinner for evening shifts hosted in someone’s home.
If food will be provided, be sure to note this in the event details
You can use or share the social events food guide for cooking ideas
Create an event in Stampede
Any shift you choose to lead should be entered into Stampede , with all relevant details. People can RSVP to attend from here
Spread the word
Once posted to Stampede, you can do some outreach to make sure people are aware of the event and sign up to attend
Make sure you're familiar with the process & steps for the shift activity
Review available resources so you can guide activists during the shift
During Your Shift
Let people eat & socialize before diving in
Allow 30 minutes or so for people to arrive, settle in, socialize, and eat
Provide instructions and resources
Give a quick overview of what you’ll be doing
Distribute any resources needed
Run through the step-by-step process and invite questions
Allow newcomers to shadow you as needed
Take photos!
Take photos of people working or socializing during the event
Share a photo to Slack in #campaign after the event
(If applicable) Debrief at the end of the shift
If this is a newer campaign activity that we’re still working out, it might be helpful to get feedback from attendees at the end to see how it could have gone smoother
Shift Resources
Here are some resources you can reference for step-by-step instructions on leading various types of shifts.
*Note: More guides will be added to this section as we try out different shift types.
Last updated 5 months ago