Welcome, Political candidates and activists!

Are you considering a run for public office? Do you think you have the skills to run successfully? Can you campaign effectively? Do you have a name in the community that voters will recognize?

The first time an individual runs for office he, or she, is faced with a herculean task! There is much to know. Much to do. And it all starts, revolves and ends with the candidate, that means you.

What many new or novice candidates don't realize is that they are in charge of their destiny. That means they must be prepared just as they need to prepare for any monumental undertaking. Think of it this way. If you want to be a doctor, you go to med school. If you want to manage a company, you get a business degree. But where do you go to get the skills you need to run for public office?

Here! That's where. In a Candidate School.

What are Candidate Schools. They are a series of workshops that place an emphasis on learning and guidance. These are not, and I repeat, not seminars. In a seminar, a speaker throws information out at you, and once you leave the seminar, you are on your own. The speaker of the seminar may have a book or CD to sell. Seminars last anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour. Do you think you can really learn what you need to in an hour? No? Good, you are smart and want to win. Keep reading.

My workshops are spread out over 4 sessions that last 6 hours each. Only 6 students may participate. As you can see, there is lots of individual attention time. It is a defined course of study on developing the skills you need to become an effective leader and campaigner. In addition to that, there is an external component that helps you establish a name and credentials in the community so that your first run has a track record for you to cite during your speeches and debates.

The 4 basics, or as I term it, the Mother of all Skill Sets, is as follows:
1-Communications skills
2-Notice-ability
3-Social-ability
4-Organizational

An educational module is followed. New information is given followed by guided practice. Homework is assigned and followed up on.

To learn more about the schools, you may attend a short presentation. The first is scheduled for April 7 at the San Fernando Valley Republican Club, 7 PM. This will be held at Galpin Ford. Other presentations will be scheduled during the spring throughout the southern California area. You may also request a presentation in your area. A video will be available later in the spring.

Do contact me with your questions ad comments.

Happy campaigning.
Laura Crockett