If you’re reading this guide, you’re probably not an expert in election campaigns. But that doesn’t make your role any less important. Here’s why your presence and effort truly make a difference:
Your Presence Alone Contributes to the Candidate’s Victory
Ideally, people would decide who to vote for by comparing candidates’ character and policies. Some voters do that. But in reality, many do not engage in such a thorough process.
Voters are often influenced by what they see around them1. When a campaign office is bustling with volunteers or canvassers are active in the neighborhood, it creates a visible sign of support. Even people who don’t interact directly with the campaign notice this presence. It can subtly influence their impression of the candidate.
Simply by participating in campaign activities, you help project energy and momentum that benefits your candidate.
Simply Being There Is an Endorsement
When you knock on doors for the first time, you’ll probably feel nervous. You might not explain everything perfectly. You might forget your script or feel unsure about your language skills.
That’s normal. And it’s not wasted effort.
People notice that you’re spending your own time as a volunteer. Even if they sense you’re new or not a native speaker, they recognize that this campaign matters enough for you to step outside your comfort zone. Your effort sends a message: “This candidate is worth supporting.”
Enjoying Yourself Helps the Campaign
Elections are serious, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have fun. Enjoy chatting with fellow volunteers between shifts. Take part in volunteer appreciation events or rallies, and treat them like festivals!
When you enjoy yourself, that positivity spreads. It attracts more volunteers and encourages others to return. A happy, motivated volunteer team is a strong team.
Many Labour-Intensive Tasks Depend on Volunteers
Election campaigns involve a lot of repetitive work. For example:
- Canvassing requires knocking on tens of thousands of doors.
- During advance polls and on election day, we revisit supporters to remind them to vote.
- On election day, the Get Out The Vote (GOTV) effort especially relies on many volunteers.
At the campaign office, there are also countless simple tasks that take time and people to complete. You don’t have to be an expert to help. Campaign staff make sure instructions are clear so even first-time volunteers can contribute meaningfully.
Leave the Difficult Tasks to Staff (or Seasoned Volunteers)
Some campaign tasks require special knowledge or experience. Those are handled by campaign staff or veteran volunteers.
Staff usually have experience from several campaigns. Some work for Members of Parliament or ministers. They know how to assign tasks in a way that matches each volunteer’s skills and comfort level.
If a task feels too difficult, don’t hesitate to:
- Ask the staff or other volunteers for help.
- Try saying: “This task feels a bit too much for me. Is there something else I can help with?”
Remember: you are a volunteer. You’re helping because you care. It’s okay to go at your own pace. What matters is showing up and contributing in a way that feels right for you.
Key Takeaways from This Topic
Why does volunteering matter even if I’m not an expert?
Campaigns rely on the presence and energy of volunteers. Simply showing up helps build visible momentum and makes a real impact.
How does my presence influence voters?
When people see volunteers active in the community, it sends a message that the candidate is well-supported, which can influence undecided voters.
What if I’m nervous or unsure what to say?
That’s completely normal. Voters respect your effort, even if your delivery isn’t perfect, because it shows you care enough to step outside your comfort zone.
Can having fun while volunteering really help the campaign?
Yes. A happy, social atmosphere keeps volunteers coming back and encourages new people to join, making the whole team stronger.
What kind of tasks do volunteers usually do?
Volunteers help with canvassing, reminding supporters to vote, and other essential but repetitive campaign work. No expertise is required.
Do I have to take on hard tasks?
No. Campaign staff assign tasks based on your comfort and experience. You can always ask for something simpler if you feel overwhelmed.
References
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Bandwagon effect, Wikipedia ↩