MAKE SOME NOISE
Now that you’ve put your message in writing, and gotten it in front of the people in charge of relevant policy, it’s time to amplify your voice and get noticed.
The promotional phase of a campaign is where you really start to grab attention and generate some buzz.
The more noise you make, the more likely it is that the increased interest and support will make its way to the top—putting additional pressure on government to take action.
Reach out to the local media you identified in Step 3. Make sure to stick to your key speaking points to keep your message strong and consistent.
Hold meetings with decision makers. Zoom has proven to be a great tool for connecting our Chapters with politicians and other key contacts.
If the campaign is coming from CARP National, we’ll provide a meeting request template for you to use:
We can also help with social media promotions (e.g. a Facebook event or targeted digital ads). Just make sure you give us enough time (at least 3 business days), to get it done for you!
Use social media to spread the word. Again, stick to your message and be clear, concise and engaging. Use enticing imagery that will inspire action, and post often! Respond positively/constructively to comments you receive and “tag” any supporting/algined groups in your posts so they can share them, too!
Reach out to the potential partners you identified in Step 3 and begin fostering a relationship. Be clear about where you align and look for opportunities to help each other reach your respective goals in way that helps all parties.
Sometimes, an MPP/MLA will only want to speak with someone in their constituency (and that might not be you). If that’s the case, connect with other Chapters / Members who are within that area, so they can step in to help and represent your cause.
Consider your environmental context and how it might affect how to best approach advocacy in your region. For example, advocacy in a rural setting will take a very different form than the same campaign in a major city. The same could be said for differences across provincial lines. Think carefully about how your local environment might require a unique approach to advocacy in order to be successful.
Hold educational events for CARP Members and the general public. Invite speakers, if possible, to generate interest. In some cases, CARP National can secure sponsorship for these events, with specific subject matter. Ask us if this might apply to your campaign.
As your campaign unfolds, don’t forget to follow up with key stakeholders to keep them engaged and track the progress of your efforts!
From here, you can move to Step 6
