Manitoba Stronger Together

1. Why Door-to-Door Matters More Than Anything Else 

In municipal elections:

• Most voters do not follow campaigns closely

• Many decide in the last 2–3 weeks

• Personal contact matters more than policy documents

Door-to-door campaigning is not about convincing everyone.

It is about being seen, being heard, and being trusted.

If done well, it:

• Builds recognition

• Creates credibility

• Identifies supporters

• Surfaces real local issues

• Humanizes the candidate

Mindset First: What Door-Knocking Is (and Is Not)

Door-knocking IS:

• Listening

• Introducing yourself

• Showing respect

• Making a personal connection

Door-knocking is NOT:

• Debating

• Delivering speeches

• Winning arguments

• Selling a platform

If you remember only one thing:

People remember how you made them feel far more than what you said.

2. How to Prepare Before You Ever Knock

Dress & Presentation

Aim for approachable, capable, and local.

Best choices:

• Clean, casual-professional clothing

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Weather-appropriate outerwear

• Minimal accessories

Avoid:

• Campaign costumes

• Overly formal attire

• Flashy jewelry

• Anything that signals “politician” instead of “neighbour”

Smile. Relax your shoulders. Make eye contact.

What to Bring

Carry only what you need:

• Small stack of campaign literature

• Pen & notepad (or phone notes)

• Simple leave-behind card

• Comfortable bag or clipboard

Do not overload yourself.

Mental Preparation

Before starting each outing, remind yourself:

• Some doors won’t answer — that’s normal

• Some people will be short — respect that

• A few will be upset — stay calm

• Most will be neutral or curious

You are not there to impress.

You are there to show up.

Best Days & Times to Door-Knock

Weekdays

• Best: 4:30 pm – 7:00 pm

• Avoid dinner hour (after 7:00 pm)

Weekends

• Saturday: 10:30 am – 1:00 pm

• Sunday: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm (avoid early mornings)

Avoid

• Early mornings

• Late evenings

• Holidays unless culturally appropriate

• Severe weather (unless brief)

Consistency matters more than marathon sessions.

The Door Interaction: Step by Step

1. The Knock

• Knock firmly but politely

• Step back from the door (not right on it)

• Stand at a slight angle, not square-on

This reduces tension and feels respectful.

2. The Opening (First 10 Seconds)

This is the most important part.

Simple, effective opener:

“Hi, I’m “John Smith”

I live here in the RM and I’m running for mayor. I’m just out meeting neighbours and listening to what matters to people.”

Then stop talking.

3. Let Them Respond

They may say:

• “Nice to meet you”

• “I don’t have much time”

• “What are you running for?”

• “What do you think about ____?”

Match their energy.

3. What to Talk About (Core Topics)

Always Start With Listening

Your first real question should be:

“What are the biggest issues you’re seeing in the RM right now?”

Then listen.

• Do not interrupt.

• Do not correct.

• Do not rush to solutions.

• Key Themes to Weave In Naturally

When appropriate, touch on:

• Fiscal responsibility and accountability

• Respectful leadership and transparency

• Local decision-making

• Community cooperation

• Responsible growth

Use plain language, not policy jargon.

How to Talk About Yourself (Briefly)

When asked:

“Tell me about yourself.”

Keep it simple:

• Longtime banker

• Experience handling finances responsibly

• Deep volunteer roots

• Commitment to community service

Do not list achievements unless asked.

Handling Common Situations

If They Support You

• Thank them sincerely

• Ask if they want a lawn sign

• Ask if they’d like campaign updates

If They’re Undecided

• Acknowledge uncertainty

• Emphasize listening and transparency

• Leave information and thank them

If They Support Someone Else

• Thank them for voting

• Wish them well

• Do not challenge or debate

Respect earns more than persuasion.

If They Are Angry or Confrontational

• Stay calm

• Listen briefly

• Do not argue

• Thank them for sharing

Never escalate. Ever.

If They Say “I’m Busy”

• Apologize for interrupting

• Leave a card

• Thank them and move on

What NOT to Do at the Door

Avoid:

• Talking too long

• Interrupting

• Defending yourself aggressively

• Criticizing opponents

• Over-promising

• Discussing confidential matters

You are building trust, not making guarantees.

How Long Should Each Interaction Be?

• Ideal: 2–5 minutes

• Longer only if the resident invites it

Short, positive interactions are better than long ones.

After Each Door Session

Immediately after:

• Make quick notes (supportive / undecided / issues raised)

• Identify follow-up needs

• Track which areas were covered

This helps later messaging and turnout efforts.

The Leave-Behind Material

Your literature should:

• Reinforce your name

• Provide a contact point

• Be visually simple

• Avoid cluttered messaging

The conversation matters more than the paper.

4. Final Reminder: What Voters Really Want

Municipal voters are not looking for:

• Big speeches

• Ideological battles

• Perfection

They are looking for:

• Steady leadership

• Respect

• Accountability

• Someone who shows up

Door-to-door is how you show that.

Closing Thought

If someone forgets your platform but remembers:

“She/ He listened to me.”

You’ve done it right.