Guide for campaigning

Campaigning is key to winning elections! Whilst it can be daunting talking to people you don’t know, it makes a massive difference to your election campaign. We have some tips on how to campaign here.

Campaign Tips

Positivity wins votes #1 – the more students you talk to about what you want to achieve and their issues, the better you will do

Positivity wins votes #2 – talking down other candidates to voters never works. People respond to positivity and the conversation should be about them

There is no shortcut to being able to talk to people "cold" - it can feel strange going up to someone you don't know and talking to them. Practise will make it easier, and going round with a friend really helps!

Write an elevator pitch

An “elevator pitch” can be a really useful tool - a short, quick intro to you and your campaign (as if you are taking a quick elevator trip with someone)

• Who you are
• Position you’re standing for
• How to vote
• When to vote

Digital Publicity

Candidates are free to use social media and digital communications (including MS Teams) to promote their campaign, although this must be fair and equal, with all candidates having the same opportunity and access to promote their campaign across any social media platform.

Candidates may receive endorsements or statements of support from individual members and/or committees of Societies or Sports Clubs via the process clubs and societies have been made aware of.

The Union Instagram won't re-share posts to ensure it is fair and equal for all candidates.

Digital Footprint

Be aware of what you're putting online, and make sure that any social media accounts reflect your current views on issues.

You can be held accountable for the things you say, and have said in the past, on social media.

In putting yourself forward for elections, you’re already identifying yourself as a leader - you have a platform and students will listen to you. Think about how your ideas can make a real change.

Printing

some of our elections allow printed campaign material, some do not. The Deputy Returning Officer will make this clear at the briefing.

 

Campaign Team

You are allowed to have a campaign team.

As soon as you decide you are running as a spring election choose a select group of friends and ask them if they would support you campaigning

Key Aspects of Campaigning & Roles to Fill: ​

• Someone who can help manage your posts and keep your online presence active. ​
• Team members who can dedicate time to assist you throughout the campaign. ​
• A person who can help you stay organised and ensure tasks are completed on time. ​
• Someone who checks in on you and reminds you to take breaks and look afteryourself. ​
• A person who can assist with putting up posters and distributing campaign materials. ​
• Your campaign team must follow the same rules and guidelines as you. Make sure​ everyone understands the regulations before getting started.

Please email suelections@stir.ac.uk with any questions.