Campaigning

         While walking into Whole Foods the other day, I was approached by a young man canvasing on behalf of a potential political candidate.  He was seeking signatures to support placing another young man onto the fall ballot in a run for congress. I asked for material on the potential candidate and found myself holding a glossy piece of paper, a little larger than a business card, with the photo of a male who looked to be under the age of 20 in a suit.  The information on this card was vague at best.  It gave his name, the fact he is a medical student, and an email next to the photo.  Scrawled on the other side was an attempt at a political tag line. What was missing was much more significant.  For instance, his party affiliation wasn’t anywhere to be seen. 

         While I find it admirable that such a young man is interested in pursuing a political career, I wasn’t impressed enough to sign on his behalf.  Why? The role of a Member of Congress is quite large.  Anyone aware of the workings of the U.S. government knows that this isn’t an entry-level job.  This young man has a great deal to prove prior to entering such an arena. 

         As I mentioned in a previous post, campaigning is a long job interview with the general public.  We need know something about candidates and it’s best to focus this information on what makes you stand out as a great fit for the job.  For instance, what forms of public service have you been involved in? What is your standing on the big issues? What are your personal success stories that can be related to the position you are campaigning for?  

         I hope that this young man’s interest in politics continues to grow, but that his awareness on how to campaign increases.