With campaigns winding down trying to get their final bills paid, reports files and services closed out it is important, win or lose, to remember to say Thank You!
There is a window in which saying thank you is appreciated and an excellent relationship builder. Too late it could be perceived as a pro forma, an afterthought or possibly too close to you next ask for support.
In his book Life’s a Campaign, MSNBC’s Chris Matthews shares a philosophy he has developed after many years in and around politics, “People don’t mind being used; what they mind is being discarded.”
Best Practice: A personal thank you note to all contributors within one week of the contribution and a personal thank you within 30 days of Election Day to all contributors and volunteers.
You might be tempted to combine this with a Christmas card, but don’t. The time and effort you extend now will be appreciated and repaid many times over in the future. It can be hard if you were on the losing end on Election Day but will be even more appreciated. That does not mean don’t send Christmas cards. Those are a good idea too!
If you are reading this and the window has long closed… It’s never too late to say thank you! It will be less effective but try to make it something special and from the heart.