Introduction

Engaging Employees

Making the Constituency
Connection

Understanding Advocacy

Putting Together Site Visits

Voter Participation and Involvement

Contact

Site Map

Home

MEET THE CANDIDATE

You can provide a forum for employees and others to meet candidates (and for the candidates to connect with constituents). Follow are some ideas for putting together a great "Meet and Greet":

• Work with employees and other key players to select a date and time that works for everyone. Be flexible, as candidates often have hectic schedules.
• If you have space at your facility, consider having the session there. If not, look for alternative space, like a hotel or restaurant.
• Provide the candidate with background papers on key produce industry issues. You can find a number of useful resources on the issues page at PMA's Advocacy Action Center
• Invite your guests. If you're planning a dinner, keep the numbers small (around 20). For a reception or forum, invite as many people as possible.
• Order audio visual equipment if needed. This may include microphones and sound systems.
• Prepare nametags for all your participants. It makes it easier for the candidates to introduce themselves.
• Make sure you have the candidate's biography photocopied for participants, as well as a photo if available.
• Assign one attendee to take photographs or hire a professional photographer. These can be great for your website or company newsletter.
• Have a sign-in table set up so you can provide a list of attendees to the candidate after the event.
• Be sure to send thank you notes!