Best Practices for Effective Door Knocking
Door knocking in 2025 is not what it used to be in 2015. With people glued to electronic devices and the tools to know who is ringing a doorbell while being on the other side of the world, campaigns are being forced to quickly evolve to ensure that field operations are still effective and successful.
1. Be Attentive & Assuring
Many residents are tired of the numerous doorkocks, especially as more campaigns begin canvassing. The canvasser can show the candidate cares by asking open ended questions to allow a resident to open up. Ask them what they would see in an ideal leader. Be patient with residents, as many of them just may need a person to talk to. Suggesting that you can take down a contact and follow up can alleviate any further debate and display the willingness to take action.
2. Stay on Message
It is important to ensure that the message being delivered is consistent. Cohesion and partnership are key to communicating clear goals and priorities. For preparation, use role play or digital quizzes before officially starting the job. It is also okay not to know every answer. Saying “I don’t know” at times is better than giving incorrect information.
3. Beware of Ring Cameras
Many door cameras are recording what is being said, so be mindful. Use these cameras as a resource to deliver your pitch. If no one answers the door, leave a recorded message. Canvassers should identify themselves and the campaign, highlight key goals, and end by politely requesting support.
4. Take Action with Supporters
If there is a positive response, take the opportunity to ask about their plan to vote. If they are unsure of their options, provide an overview of vote by mail, early voting, and election day voting opportunities. Ask how they plan on getting to their polling location, and make note if they need assistance. Take that chance to ask the homeowner if they would like a house sign. Don’t forget to bring yard signs with you!
5. Use A Voter Contact Tool
MiniVAN, eCanvasser, or Grassroots Unwired are all great ways to make sure you’re talking to likely voters and capturing information at the doors. Most canvassing programs are focused on identifying supporters (to later turn out during GOTV). Make sure you’re logging them digitally or keeping notes on paper.
6. Be Approachable
Dress professionally, preferably wearing campaign merchandise, and remember that you are the bridge between the candidate and voters. If someone says they are busy, apologize for the interruption and reassure them it will only take a minute. Many people look through their windows before answering. If you notice this, make eye contact, smile, and wave. If no one comes to the door, leave a handwritten note or campaign literature. Personal touches matter, especially in local races.
7. Time Spent
Observe surroundings to see if there is a car on the driveway or lights on in the home. If you see signs of a person being home, be sure to wait longer and give them a chance to answer. If your voter contact app tells you the person you’re looking for is elderly, give them a little extra time to make it to the door.
8. Be Ready to Take Action
Once you identify a supporter, congratulations, you are one step closer to winning the race! Use that moment to encourage them to share their support with friends, family, or neighbors who may also be persuadable.