Effective campaigning

Tip: Click on a cycle name to find out more

No revolution can take place without a methodology suited to the circumstances of the period’. Martin Luther King

What do we mean by ‘campaigns’?

How we define, think about and understand campaigning has a huge effect on what we choose to campaign for, how we campaign and whether we campaign at all. The campaigns hub is here for you to use – to share ideas and experiences of campaigning. You could:

• Start or join a discussion group on a campaigns topic
• Upload a case study / campaigns guide or resource
• Write an article or blog post
• Simply read what’s here and keep in the loop

When we talk about campaigning we mean creating change – whether in public behaviour or institutional policy and practice. We use this definition because we believe that if we want to make a difference to students’ lives, we need first to define what it is we want to change and then consider the most effective way to achieve it.

What is not a campaign?

• producing a report with some recommendations -  if you do not campaign to make this a reality, you will create little impact.
• an awareness raising event - campaigning involves having a specific aim in order to identify what you want to change and developing a clear strategy to do it.
• creating a Facebook group - If you do not translate online support into action then you will make no impact.
• producing a series of leaflets - these can help raise your profile but what impact are you looking to have on decision makers? Always have an ‘ask’

How to make an impact?

Change and impact are what campaigning is all about – seeking change and the impact that creates.

A good campaign is one that uses the minimum amount of effort and resources to achieve your desired aim.

The exact mix of activities – persuasion or pressure, will depend on your strategy – what is the best way to achieve what you want to achieve!

Some key points to remember:

• Don’t confuse ends with means – have a clear aim then look at what tactics to use
• Understand your targets – then you will be able to influence them
• Communicate well and persistently – create messages that get noticed!
• Involve your members in your campaigning
• Monitor & evaluate – know when you’re making an impact!
• Innovate and be creative – engage people in different ways
• Stay with the issue to resolution
• Compile strong & compelling evidence – to inform and reinforce your arguments
• Select the issue which is right for you – build your capacity to campaign
• Work with useful allies & coalitions – create a bigger impact with less effort
• Promote a campaigning culture – embed effective campaigning in your work

As elected officers within unions serve one or two terms, it often means that staff and officers both have a lot to do in very little time, but don’t worry if your impact is long-term, you just need to ensure it is written in the governing document of your union so your campaign can be passed on.

Good luck campaigning!