#39 Your Post-Election Game Plan

Winning Edge

The election is over and here's what to do next.

For Candidates Who Didn't Win:

1. Keep the Network
   • Maintain connections with supporters and donors
   • Send handwritten thank-you notes
2. Give Yourself Time
   • Process the results
   • Appreciate skills gained and lessons learned
3. Conduct a Post-mortem
   • Document what worked and what didn't
   • Record details while fresh
4. Take the Longview
   • View this as one chapter in your story
   • Use experience as a launchpad for your next chapter

For Candidates Who Won:

1. Thank Your Supporters
   • Write thank-you notes to key supporters, donors, and spouse
2. Protect Your Time
   • Be selective with new requests
   • Manage priorities carefully
3. Find a Mentor
   • Seek guidance from experienced officials
   • Build valuable alliances
4. Have an Agenda
   • Focus on two priorities:
     • One campaign promise
     • One bipartisan issue
5. Become an Expert
   • Choose a relevant issue
   • Build expertise through focused study

Bottom Line:

• Post-election is the beginning of your next chapter
• Actions in coming weeks set the stage for future success

For more tips on post-election strategies, refer to the accompanying one-page PDF.

Winning Edge gives you the tools you need to lead and influence in the political and policy arenas. Every other week, Winning Edge releases short (approximately 5-minute) spots—or “snacks”—focused on one of four areas: fundraising, media, policy, or persuasion.
For more, visit our website: www.thecommonwealthpartners.com