Volunteer FAQs: Canvassing

Elizabeth Love-Duenas

Hello friends, and welcome to the Montgomery County Democratic Party! Whether you’re a new volunteer ready to get started or an experienced volunteer looking to get more involved, we are happy to have you on our team. 

This article dives into the basics of canvassing: what to expect, how to prepare, and answers to all our most frequently asked questions. Use this article as a reference for yourself and for when you invite friends and family to join you. 

How to Prepare for a Canvass

Preparing for your first canvass can be nerve-wracking. Know that your feelings are valid, and that we’re here to walk you through every step of the way. We’ll be training you on-site, but here are a few tips to help you rock the canvass!

• Download the MiniVAN app beforehand. Once at the canvass, we will provide you with a list number indicating which houses to visit and a script.
• Bring sunscreen and water to stay cool and hydrated.
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.

Canvass Do’s & Don’t’s

1. Do finish as much of your list as possible
2. Do use the script.
3. Do save your data on MiniVAN at every door
4. Do stay safe and use your best judgment when interacting with houses

1. Don’t knock on doors that say “no trespassing”
2. Don’t speak negatively about anyone’s views
3. Don’t leave literature on or in anyone’s mailbox (this is a federal offense) 
4. Don’t go inside for safety reasons.

Canvass FAQs

1. Why do we door-knock, and who are we talking to?

We door-knock because it has proven to be one of the most effective ways to talk to voters about our candidates in the upcoming elections. We primarily talk to voters who have voted democrat in past elections. We’ll never intentionally send you to a house that doesn’t align with our party. 

However, some voters may be considering other candidates. It is our job to inform them about our candidates and their policies before they get to the polls. 

2. Will I be going alone?

Absolutely not. You will always be paired into teams, especially if this is your first time. For those who haven’t canvassed, you will be paired with someone experienced to guide you on your first canvassing adventure.

3. What do I do when I get to the door?

Knock no more than once or twice. If someone answers, follow the script in a kind tone and offer them literature. If they stop to ask questions, answer them to the best of your ability and wish them a good rest of their day once you’re finished. Mark their response in the MiniVAN app and move on to the next house.

If they don’t answer the door, leave literature near or on their door. Do NOT leave literature on or in their mailbox at any point. This is a federal offense. Mark them in MiniVAN and move on to the next house.

4. What if there’s a “no soliciting” sign?

In the state of Tennessee, political canvassing is considered non-commercial soliciting. You don’t need a permit, and you’re not selling anything. If there’s a sign that says “no soliciting,” please use your personal judgment to decide whether or not it’s safe to door knock. If you don’t feel comfortable knocking, you can always leave literature at the door.

5. How do I stay safe during canvassing?

Know that canvassing is generally safe and enjoyable. Most people either don’t answer the door or are absolutely willing to talk to you if they do. Most people are friendly and understanding. We rarely have safety incidents while canvassing. However, here are a few safety tips we follow to keep canvassing safe and fun:

1. Never knock on a door if you initially feel unsafe. 
2. If you see or hear dogs that you feel could be a threat to your safety, skip that house.
3. Never knock on a door that says “no trespassing.”
4. Never go to houses that are not on the list.
5. Call 911 if you are in immediate danger.
6. Call the number you were given at staging if you’re dealing with a non-emergency situation.

If you encounter any other questions, please call our office during regular hours or reach out to the person who referred you to this article. We are so excited to have you join us for canvassing, and we can’t wait to Get Out The Vote with you. 

Your volunteer contributions matter to us, and they are important in making a difference in Clarksville-Montgomery County. Thank you for your time and effort, and we look forward to seeing you out there!