How to Block Walk for a Campaign

Block walking, sometimes called precinct walking, is a campaign technique of walking neighborhoods to speak with voters about a campaign. Political campaigns use block walking to introduce the candidate to voters and to get person-to-person contact with voters. Volunteers, paid staff and the candidate may all be involved in block walking. To develop a block walk campaign, use these steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Get a voter list of the precinct or neighborhood. Obtain a printed block walk list from a campaign vendor or political party office. Electronic versions may also be available from these sources, as well as from the voter registrar.

2. Recruit block walkers. Prepare candidates to walk, as well as volunteers. Many volunteers are willing to walk their own neighborhoods.

3. Design campaign literature for the block walk. Called "push pieces," this literature is left with the voter as information about the candidate. These pieces should introduce the candidate and give a brief summary of the platform.

4. Train volunteers on block walking. Volunteers should be knowledgeable about the candidate's platform and able to answer voter questions. They should know how to collect data on the responses they receive. They should also be instructed on safety and how to deal with unusual situations, such as barking dogs and unfriendly voters.

5. Set the times and days for block walking. Allow ample time for the walkers to complete their lists. Encourage block walkers not to knock on doors early in the day, late at night, or at meal times. When a walker finishes a list, always ask if they are willing to do additional neighborhoods.

6. Compile the block walk data. Fulfill any requests for yard signs, bumper stickers or additional information. Identify positive responses for get-out-the-vote programs.

7. Thank the walkers. Whether individually or at an election night party, always let the walkers know their work is valued.

Tips & Warnings

• Encourage block walkers to go in pairs and carry a cell phone for safety. Tell them to skip any doors that appear unsafe.
• Software programs for compiling campaign information like block walking may be helpful.
• Always obey federal, state and local election laws when block walking. Check with the ethics commission or local election official for laws that may apply.
• Always obey state and local trespassing laws.