Usually the structure of All-Candidates events doesn’t provide opportunity for this, but you may be mentioned in another’s remarks.

Simply correct any misinformation, clarify your position and return to your “Why I Am Running” statement.

As a candidate, this is the time to elevate public discourse and show positive leadership skills.

These events are public and, if recorded, leave a lasting impression of both the negative comment, the motives and your response.

“Be cool, calm & collected.”

Throughout the campaign, stress the importance of voting.

Towards the end of the campaign, take the time to focus on this message and speak with supporters who can also contact others, asking them to support your campaign.

If working, you may want to take some time off at the end to commit to this activity.

Unlike other levels of government, candidates and their teams can still campaign on Election Day.

You can use social media to update the community about election day/period activities (e.g., voting locations, lineups, showing yourself voting).

No. This is no different than going behind the voting screen to help someone vote (which is not allowed).

It is best to provide the voting online address and direct voters to contact The Clerk if they have a problem. Most municipalities will have locations or support to assist.

Scutineers on election day can be on hand to observe the voting process or receive the results.

With physical voting, scrutineers can observe the process being used at vote counting and identify any issues that may be discussed in the case of a close race re-count .

With online voting, there is less to observe but candidates can request information about the process and scrutineers at the municipal office on the day can receive the information to pass along to the candidate.

The candidate drives the energy and motivation for volunteers, so it’s important not to run out of steam.

Build in time for activities that will aid self-care in order to maintain momentum.

Volunteers can do other activities during this time like delivering literature at the door, gathering names for future contacts, event planning, marketing and social media work.

Lean on your inner circle who you trust to maintain confidentiality.

Seek out others who are/have similar experiences to chat with can be helpful (candidates you know in other communities and former elected officials).

Building networks where you can seek connections and advice is helpful. You can reach out to electHER Now, through the Elections Connections Program (May-October, Grey Bruce Canadidates only, please).

It’s true… not everyone who runs, wins.

Prepare both option responses in advance to help you think about your reaction in advance.

Re-frame the experience by thinking about the positives that benefitted both this and future campaigns:

• your elevation of local issues

• increased knowledge about the community

• expanded personal network of supporters.

Plan how you will convey your post-election message to your supporters, in person on Election Day and to the broader community afterwards.

Spend time thanking the community and supporters using the media (Letters to the Editor), social media, emails and handwritten notes.

Give yourself a break and lean on your team for support (i.e., perhaps get your volunteers to take down your signs).

After thanking your team and collecting your signs, reach out to your new council peers and the Clerk to make a connection.

Give yourself a few days before diving into the new position.

You will receive information about the next steps from the Clerk, including the Inaugural Ceremony (where you sign the Oath of Office), first meeting dates and new council orientation sessions.

You may wish to review the official description of your new role and responsibilities as set out under the Municipal Act. Also, watch any current and past council sessions to observe the process before you begin.

Work with your team to finalize finances. See Class 2 Learning Video for more details.