1. How to win an election in 10 simple steps

2. 1. Get buy-in Get other students to buy in to your campaign
Involve them in a video
Get them in group photos
Take selfies with them and #yourcampaign Give them a reason to share your content and tell their friends about you

4. 2. Consistent branding
Pick a couple of colours and fonts for everything
(posters, flyers, tshirts, facebook cover photos)
Think of a catchy tag line
Put your face, name and position on everything
Make sure students know who you are and what you’re running for

6. 3. Be realistic Don’t promise people the world
If you get elected, you will be held to account on your claims
Aim high, but don’t make promises you can’t keep
Be honest – students will have an idea of what is achievable and what isn’t

7. 4. Summarise Most students won’t sit through pages of text
Be clear, know your pitch and select some snappy one liners
“I want to cut down s, reduce the cost of food and help each course create a society”
Be clear, confident and prepared

8. 5. Rope in your friends Get a good and varied campaign team
Think about students you don’t have access to
Can you get someone from another course? Year group? Society? Campus?
Make sure they know your main points/ideas
Word of mouth is key

10. 6. Don’t worry, be happy!
The first hour is the hardest – don’t be put off
Some students won’t respond well so just accept that, smile, tell them to have a great day and forget about it – they might be going through a tough time
Keep calm and don’t let the haters bring you down

11. 7. SMILE No matter what, smile at everybody
Get people engaged, don’t just talk at them
“What do you think about this? What would you want changed?”
Not bothered? Ask to give them a flyer and smile
Remember: how you react to people is seen by all

12. 8. Play nice Be nice to the people you’re running against
It’s stressful for everyone – look after each other
Students will pick up on a bad atmosphere
Don’t waste time worrying about what other candidates are doing – focus on you
Although you might be running for the same role, you are still one team

13. 9. Be YOU Be personable and approachable
You’re a real person with real ideas – show this
Don’t use too much jargon
Not sure how to answer a question? Be honest
Students will see through someone who is trying to be someone they’re not. You’re great- be you.

14. 10. Be creative Think outside the box
Make a video and give people a reason to share it
Got some confident friends? Do a flash mob!
What can you buy loads of for little money?
Make and share an “I’m voting for X” twibbon
Get into lectures (with permission!)
Don’t rely on posters!

16. Talk to people The Golden Rule
Did you know: you could actually ignore every single top tip we’ve suggested and still win an election.
How?!
Talk to people
This is by far the most effective way of campaigning and your best shot at winning – go for it.