Take a look at our quick guide with the four steps you absolutely need to consider when starting a run for office.

Know what it takes to win

Don´t run for office just as a way to get a glimpse into the political world. Your goal should be to win. So, you need to learn what it takes to do so.

Read specialized articles, guides and books by the most trusted sources on how to set, launch, run and win a political campaign.

You will find it helpful to talk topeople in your area who have run for office in the past. Their first-hand insight on what works and what doesn´t is incredibly valuable. Practical knowledge truly makes a big difference.

Write the plan for the campaign

A well-pondered and thorough written plan is crucial to win a political campaign. At this stage, you don´t need to lay out every specific detail. But you need to draft the major topics, including strategies, funding, communication, schedule, budget and contacts.

Set up a team

You will most likely not be able to win a political campaign if you work by yourself. There are a lot of different tasks involved. So, you need to gather a team. You particularly need to start thinking about who will be your campaign manager.

Your collaborators should be allowed to have a say in the plan. Then, make sure they are motivated and committed. Equip them with all the necessary information and resources to start accomplishing their responsibilities.

Start raising funds

The fundraising for your campaign can be quite an exhausting feat to achieve. So, you need to start raising money as early as possible.

That´s because, once the time comes to have the campaign in full swing, your time and energy need to be dedicated to the core activities and events. By that time, you should not still be garnering funds.

Your relatives, friends, colleagues and neighbors are the best people to start with. They will likely invest if they believe in your work.

If your mind is set to run for office, right now is the exact moment you should start planning. It is never too early and you will be glad you did.