How to Take Effective Political Action

How to Petition and Table

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What is Petitioning and Tabling?

Petitioning – Collecting voter signatures in order to make a formal request of a government agency, organization, business or individual.

Tabling – Reserving a table at events like fairs, farmers markets, block parties and more in order to create a display for members of the public to see and to complete an action like signing a petition.

Why do it?

  1. Gather necessary signatures in order to get an issue or candidate on a ballot. Typically, the government determines the required number of signatures in order to appear on the ballot.
  2. Gather signatures from members of the public in order to influence decision makers regarding a particular issue. Usually the more signatures gathered, the more likely the decision makers will be swayed.
  3. Gather volunteers to start spreading awareness about your issue or candidate in your community.
  4. Collect as many phone numbers and emails of supporters as possible to include them in current and future campaigns and actions.

How to Successfully Table:

  • Engage folks as they approach your table.
  • Offer them a button, sticker or information about your issue
  • Engage them in conversation, trying to make a connection around an issue.
  • Be prepared to ask the members of the public to take an action (sign a petition, join the campaign, attend a future event/action, etc.)
  • Be willing to answer questions.
  • Show interest in the conversation that you’ve started, and be enthusiastic.
  • Ask if they want to get involved.
    • Make sure your materials include a place where folks can check off the box indicating if they’d like to volunteer.
    • Let them know about your upcoming event, or point them towards ways that they can get involved.

How to Successfully Petition:

  • Long lines make great opportunities.
  • Standing near places where a lot of people seem to be congregated such as at the exit or the bathrooms can give you an opportunity to talk with people.
  • Your purpose is to find your supporters, rejection is just part of the process, don’t take it personally.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and clothing that identifies you.
  • Be willing to answer questions.
  • Show interest in the conversation that you’ve started, and be enthusiastic.
  • Ask if they want to get involved.
    • Make sure your materials include a place where folks can check off the box indicating if they’d like to volunteer.
    • Let them know about your upcoming event, or point them towards ways that they can get involved.