The Election is Over, Now What? Post Election Fundraising To-dos

The dust has settled, and the fervor of the election campaign has subsided. Whether you’ve emerged victorious or not, the conclusion of an election is not the end. Like a marathon, the race’s completion demands a period of recovery and reflection. Post-election, this translates into several critical activities aimed at wrapping up the campaign while setting the stage for future endeavors.

Wrap Up Your Finances

First and foremost, address your campaign’s financial loose ends. This involves finalizing financial reports, settling invoices, compensating your team, and pausing your donation page. It’s also a moment to revisit finance laws to ensure all your fiscal activities remain above board.

Say Thank You

Gratitude is a timeless virtue, especially in the context of a political campaign. The journey is a collective effort, powered by volunteers, donors, staff, and supporters. In the aftermath, taking the time to express your thanks is not just courteous but fundamental. Handwritten notes, in particular, offer a personal touch that resonates deeply with recipients.

Evaluate Your Performance

Reflection is key to growth. Assess your campaign’s performance, identifying strengths to build upon and areas for improvement. Regardless of the election’s outcome, there’s always room to refine strategies, messaging, and operations for future campaigns.

Clean Your Data

With the next election ever on the horizon, maintaining a well-organized database is crucial. Consolidate your donor lists and contact information to ensure a solid foundation for your next campaign. Tools like FundHero can significantly aid in this organizational effort, streamlining the process of keeping your data clean and accessible.

Take Time for Self-Care

Lastly, do not overlook the importance of self-care. Campaigning is an intense, all-consuming endeavor. Post-election, give yourself permission to step back, recharge, and reconnect with loved ones away from the whirlwind of political activities. This not only aids in personal recovery but also in gaining fresh perspectives for future challenges.

Conclusion

While the campaign trail may have reached its end, the journey of public service and political engagement continues (take a look at our Campaign Checklist for ideas!). By effectively wrapping up the past campaign and laying the groundwork for future ones, you position yourself for sustained success and impact. Remember, in the realm of politics, every ending is merely the prologue to another beginning.