Politics is a guessing game. How far can I push an issue before someone is offended? Who do the voters perceive me to be? Will I have enough votes to win?

No matter the level of race, City Commissioner or National Senator, the questions are the same. The only difference is the access to the answers. It is so easy to make assumptions when running in an election. The assumptions are deadly. Why? Because you make these based on the words and observations of those who are on your side. You need to listen to all views. You need to have the courage to hear what everyone is thinking. Only then, are you able to modify your approach and ensure victory.

A coach who is successful realizes that the playbook is worthless if the players are not at the skill level required to implement the plays. He modifies the approach each year based on the team. He continues to modify as the season evolves. Eventually he will get the team in a position succeed with his system. A poor coach is one who blames the students for their inability, shames them by comparing their skills to previous teams, refuses to adjust and communicates to his supervisors that the talent just isnt there.

What type of candidate are you? Have you assessed your talents, modified your approach based on reality and put yourself in a position to win? Are you a champion or ready to accuse the electorate of incompetence when you are defeated?

Time, energy, and money will be spent during the campaign. You owe it to yourself to find the answers. If you cannot afford the services of a research firm dedicated to political issues and candidate elections, try these easy, yet important methods of research.

Find three persons who support you and ask them to help. The candidate cannot make these calls. Have each person call five people they know. Friends are fine. Random is better, but everyone has a comfort zone and the important part is the calls are made. Ask the same five questions in each phone call. Instructing the callers to become exceptional listeners. Ask the question. Listen. Write the responses. (Repeat), There is no need for small talk or banter. Examples of the questions are: Do you know (candidate)? What do you think of (candidate)? Would you vote for (candidate)? How can the candidate improve his/her image? What issue is important to you this election?

This is a start. Repeat this process as the campaign evolves. Find new people to make the calls. Ask similar and new questions depending on the situation. Do not be afraid of the answers. Adjust and succeed!