Hey,
I went to the winter summit and I heard some inspiring words for volunteers and those who are considering politics as a career. that I thought I'd share. Most of the guest speakers began their amazing careers as volunteers who later were recommended for higher and more influential positions. One person started as a volunteer opening mail and rose to the Governor's speech writer. One of Elizabeth Warren's head field organizers in Massachusetts confessed he lost his first five campaigns in which he volunteered.
For a future in campaign fieldwork, one speaker said, when asked what major in college could be most helpful, "you need fire, not a major." As the field organizer of the Greater Boston area at the age of 19, she said that to succeed, you need to know why this election, candidate, and/or politics are important to you. Each field worker said that they never feel like their work is done because they have such a personal drive to be their best. Only those who find personal meaning and have the right mentality succeed.
To the volunteer, canvassing and calling requires you to create a personal connection with the candidate and each citizen. The goal is to start a conversation and communicate with the candidate and any potential supporter. You must show how the success of your candidate will directly help this potential supporter. One field organizer said their goal is to make a network of precinct captains and volunteers so to create a network and a team.
I most enjoyed listening to the passion in the guest speakers' voice because they see politics as a medium for change and not one for throwing dirt. Also I found it inspiring how effort and hard work brought them success at such a young age.
See you guys tomorrow at the meeting,
Marcie
