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Canvassing Guide - Michael Janz Campaign

Getting Started

Before You Go

  • Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing
  • Have your phone charged
  • Bring a water bottle
  • Wear sunscreen and a hat

At the Door

Safety First

  • Canvass in pairs when possible, especially in the evening
  • Stay on public property (sidewalks, front porches)
  • Be aware of your surroundings
  • Trust your instincts - if something feels unsafe, leave
  • Stay in contact with the larger group and call Reed anytime.

The Approach

  • Walk confidently to the front door
  • Ring doorbell once or knock firmly (not aggressively)
  • Step back from the door to appear less intimidating
  • Smile and make eye contact when the door opens
  • Have your materials ready but not thrust forward

Opening Script

"Hi, I'm [Your Name], a volunteer with Michael Janz's campaign for ward papastew. I'm talking to voters in the neighborhood about the upcoming election. Would you be open to learning more about Michael and his positions?

If yes : Great! You can scan here to go straight to his site or you can take this pamphlet.

Conversation Guidelines

DO:

  • Listen more than you talk
  • Be respectful and friendly
  • Stay positive about Michael Janz
  • Thank voters for their time regardless of their position
  • Ask for their vote if they're supportive
  • Offer campaign literature
  • Record voter information accurately

DON'T:

  • Argue or debate - you're there to inform, not convince
  • Take negative responses personally
  • Enter someone's home
  • Discuss other candidates negatively
  • Overstay your welcome
  • Push if someone isn't interested

Key Talking Points

Michael Janz's Priorities

  • Housing Affordability: Supporting policies that make housing accessible for working families
  • Public Safety: Smart investments in community safety and crime prevention
  • Economic Development: Creating good-paying jobs and supporting local businesses
  • Infrastructure: Improving roads, transit, and essential services

Sample Responses to Common Questions

"What makes Michael different?"

"Michael has a proven track record of listening to constituents and delivering results. He's been working on [specific local issue] and has concrete plans to address the challenges our community faces."

"Why should I vote?"

"Your voice matters in shaping our community's future. This election will determine policies that directly affect your daily life, from local services to economic opportunities."

"I don't know enough about the candidates."

"That's exactly why I'm here! Let me share some information about Michael's positions on the issues that matter most to our neighborhood."

Handling Different Responses

Supporter

  • Thank them for their support
  • Ask if they need information about voting (dates, locations, early voting)
  • Invite them to volunteer
  • Ask if they know neighbors who might support Michael

Undecided

  • Listen to their concerns
  • Share relevant information about Michael's positions
  • Leave literature
  • Offer to have Michael or a campaign representative follow up

Opposition

  • Thank them for their time
  • Remain polite and respectful
  • Don't argue or try to change their mind
  • End the conversation gracefully: "I appreciate you taking the time to talk with me"

Not Home

  • Leave campaign literature in a visible but secure location
  • Note the time for potential follow-up visits
  • Don't leave materials if weather might damage them

Data Collection

Information to Record

  • Voter name, address, email, phone number
  • Support level (1 = Strong Support, 2 = Lean Support, 3 = Lean Opposition, 4 = Strong Opposition)
  • If they would take a law sign and what size of lawn sign
  • Special notes or follow-up needed

Using the Campaign App

  • Update voter records immediately after each conversation
  • Note any address or voter file discrepancies
  • Use the electronic form and system if you have data and the form if you do not

Wrapping Up

End of Conversation

  • Always thank the voter for their time
  • Leave appropriate literature
  • Provide voting information if requested
  • "Thank you so much for talking with me today. Remember to vote on [Election Date]!"

End of Canvassing Session

  • Return all materials to campaign headquarters
  • Submit completed voter contact sheets
  • Sync mobile app data
  • Debrief with campaign staff about any issues or notable conversations

Special Situations

Apartments/Condos

  • Check building policies about soliciting
  • Be respectful of private property rules
  • Focus on units with accessible entrances
  • Don't prop open secured doors

Gated Communities

  • Respect "No Soliciting" signs
  • Don't attempt to bypass security
  • Consider alternative contact methods for these voters

Hostile Encounters

  • Stay calm and polite
  • Don't take it personally
  • End the conversation quickly: "I understand, thank you for your time"
  • Never argue or escalate
  • Report serious incidents to campaign leadership

Remember

You represent Michael Janz and the campaign with every interaction. Your professionalism, courtesy, and enthusiasm can make a lasting positive impression that translates to votes. Every door is an opportunity to connect with a voter and share Michael's vision for our community.

Questions? Contact campaign headquarters at 780-292-1731 or [email protected]