Overview of the Canvass Director Position
A Canvass Director’s mission is to recruit, train, retain and develop a successful crew of canvassers and leaders to organize the public for social change. Directing a canvass is a multi-layered job.
We recruit!
We seek qualified candidates. We find them in diverse neighborhoods, at coffee shops, college campuses, doing un-inspiring jobs, even at our corner store. We find them with palm cards, flyers, online and newspaper ads. We search for individuals motivated to work for change and possessing the communication skills to convey that passion to the public.
We train!
Most prospective canvassers need training to be successful in the canvass. We identify and impart skills to new canvassers in a simple and organized way that builds confidence and empowers them.
We retain!
We guide the culture in our office by setting a good example, using campaigns and standards to emphasize teamwork, and creating a positive, progressive, and professional atmosphere. Instilling the mission and values of grassroots organizing in our crew is vital to making our canvassers feel successful.
We develop!
The movement is only as strong as the number of leaders it has to carry it forward. Challenging our crew is important for their longevity in our office, and in the movement. CDs have the ability to step back and watch our leaders shine and span their wings to take the next steps in their careers. It is very difficult for one Canvass Director to train a crew of 30, but one director with five managers and five trainers can.
Behind the scenes!
Canvass Directors also have administrative tasks like payroll, budgets, and number crunching to run our offices efficiently and professionally.
Build strong professional relationships!
The best advice for a new Canvass Director is: do what you know best. Interact with your crew. Build relationships, show it is doable, and continue to inspire them with your vision.
