Why Campaigns Are Ghosting You
Here’s the truth: there are always political campaigns needing help. They constantly seek people to knock on doors, make phone calls, and spread the word about their candidates. So why is it that when you finally muster up the courage to reach out, you're met with ... silence?
If you've ever felt like you're shouting into the void after expressing interest in a campaign, you're not alone. Ghosting is surprisingly common in the realm of politics. But before you take it personally or give up on your civic engagement dreams, let's explore why this happens and what you can do about it.
The Ghosting Phenomenon: Why It Happens
There are many reasons why a campaign might not respond to your application or email right away:
Timing is Everything: Campaigns operate with deadlines and cycles. You may have applied when the campaign is laser-focused on meeting its quarterly fundraising goal or onboarding a new staff member. Your interest isn't being ignored — it's just not their top priority at that moment.
Staffing Shortages: Many campaigns survive on tight budgets with minimal staff. There may not be anyone regularly checking submissions and emails. Your message could be sitting in an inbox, waiting for someone to have a spare moment to read it.
Strategic Decisions: While it may seem counterintuitive, some campaigns may not want more help at certain times, even if they need it. They might be overwhelmed, disorganized, focused on something else, or simply untrustworthy of individuals outside their inner circle.
Taking Action: What You Can Do
Your motivation to help is appreciated. There are several steps you can take to break through the communication barrier:
Compare Visions and Ambitions: Contact several different campaigns. Look beyond high-profile races and search for websites of local level candidates. Down-ballot races often have a greater need for help and better responsiveness. If you can't find a formal application process, check for phone numbers, emails, LinkedIn profiles, and events to network with campaign leaders and politicos.
Follow Up, Then Follow Up Again: There's zero harm in bumping an email or making a phone call. Your persistence might be what catches their attention. Campaigns often juggle a lot, and a gentle reminder can move you to the top of their to-do list. Don't be afraid to follow up multiple times — but wait at least a week in between each.
Explore Alternative Routes: If you’re still not having any luck after following up with multiple campaigns, consider redirecting your energy toward political organizations and nonprofits instead. These groups typically work on issues year-round and are often hiring.
The Bigger Picture
In a political landscape where engagement often feels like an uphill battle, your time and energy are valuable. Don't let initial setbacks discourage you from participating in politics.
Campaigns and political organizations need people who are passionate, proactive, and willing to put in the work to create change. By persisting in your efforts, you contribute to the broader movement of civic engagement and grassroots activism.
So, the next time you fill out an application or send an email and hear nothing but crickets, take a deep breath and remember: it's probably not you — it’s them. With some persistence and creativity, you'll find a way to make your voice heard and your efforts count. The political process needs you, even if it doesn’t always feel that way.
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