The Campaign Operations Checklist

Running a race is about managing the campaign strategy and your team. You may have already handled some basics -- filing with the FEC, getting an EIN and setting up with a payroll company, posting job descriptions -- but there are other steps you should take to ensure good people management. While your time and resources are limited, answering these key questions up front will make your operation stronger and focused on Election Day.

❏ Do you have harassment and non-discrimination policies to protect staff and volunteers?

This is a newsy topic, but it’s critical your staff always feel safe, valued, and part of a team that takes the issue seriously. You need a policy that is clear to management, staff, and volunteers -- and a clear process for any of them to report a concern.

❏ How are you ensuring diversity on your team?

We know that diversity is a strength, and our campaigns should reflect the makeup of the country. You should walk the walk -- and once you build your diverse team, make sure those voices are actually represented at the decision-making table.

❏ What will you say if your staff wants a collective bargaining agreement?

The Campaign Workers Guild has organized a number of campaigns already, and at least one presidential campaign will be unionized. You should be prepared for this to come up.

❏ Do you have a leave policy if someone needs to take a day off or gets sick?

Campaign staff are used to being available 24/7. A system for requesting and approving time off highlights for them that it’s ok to ask, and helps you evaluate each request the same way.

❏ Do you have a reimbursement policy for staff incurring campaign expenses?

These decisions are often just made as they come up, and not all staff will be equally comfortable asking. Setting guidelines makes this fairer, and may save the campaign money too.

❏ What cybersecurity training will staff get?

You already know this is important, but you need to make sure it actually happens and that staff continue to protect their accounts and devices.

❏ What kind of legal and ethics training will staff get?

A briefing on FEC rules and -- especially if you’re working for an incumbent -- ethics rules prevents easily avoidable mistakes that cost time and money.  

❏ Does your campaign have a code of conduct?

When your team knows what is appropriate vs unacceptable from day one, you’ll build a stronger sense of community and are less likely to deal with “I was just joking!” or an embarrassing tweet later on.

Need help answering these questions, or have other operations questions on your mind? Reach out to CSR Operations LLC.