We talk about canvassing a lot on this blog, but getting involved doesn’t have to mean hitting the streets and banging on doors. It could also mean making connections from the campaign office with a beverage and snack of your choice close by.

Phone banking is a great way to help your candidate’s campaign. And you could actually end up having more conversations with voters on a given afternoon.

Here is what to expect when you show up to your first phone bank:

Yes, there could be a phone but also a laptop too: The campaign could provide you with a burner and a physical list if they are a smaller race with limited funds. But they could also have a laptop with an auto dialer that connects you to the voters automatically. Either way, there should still be a block of training and script.

The same principles of connecting and building rapport apply: We’ve talked about making a connection with voters (story HERE) and a lot of those tips you can use over the phone. Conduct the survey. Let them talk. And hang up the phone understanding you’ve left a positive impression.

Some individuals can also be extra mean: The good news about knocking on doors is that many people will at least exercise a little restraint when being rude because your face to face. Not the case on the phone. Either way, my main philosophy remains the same. The only phone call that matters is the next one.

I’ve watched some great volunteers work the phones for months and they are a joy to observe. It’s an excellent “get out the vote” tool and one you should also learn to master if you’re getting into politics.