Political campaigning, go for local or go for price...

I often get asked advice when it comes to campaign 101 basics. It may seem like a simple decision, but the reality is depending on what you are running for and what promises you have made, at times you can create controversy over your decision of who to have print your campaign material. From custom bumper stickers to t-shirts, if you don't do some careful decision making it can be a problem. Something as simple as being a candidate who promotes a green message who doesn't use campaign material that is considered "green" can be an issue raised by your opponents.

Then there is the issue of cost, many times going with a local printer will cost your campaign more money. Thanks to the internet there are a variety of companies out there that can save you hundreds of dollars on campaign material.

You also need to be aware of traditions in your area, it does not mean that you necessarily have to follow them, but you should be prepared to explain when you don't. Take my area as an example, wearing a name tag with your name and the office you are seeking is one of those "must do" moments. If you are a candidate out in public without one? Chances are someone is going to ask you, "Where is your name tag?" Which is why I warn new candidates, buy more than one...wear it...

I also really recommend using door hangers, which companies like PSPrint Online Printing have easy to use templates for. If you are planning on doing a traditional door to door campaign, you will knock on doors where no one is home, having something as simple as a door hanger lets people know you stopped by without having to hear complaints about a brochure or a flyer blowing off their porch or making the mistake of using a mail box, which is against the law. One campaign locally that became an issue and you as a candidate want to be able to focus on the reasons why you should be elected.