How to Stop Worrying and Start Phonebanking

By Jane A. - October 22, 2022

Chapter member Jane A.

I’m proud to tell people I’ve been phonebanking for Democratic campaigns with OFA since 2018. Often, however, when people hear the term “phonebank,” they typically cringe and say, “I could never do that.” Personally, I think you can and should. But first I’ll address some common concerns:

1. I can’t get Republicans to change their minds.

Phonebank canvasses never require you to do this. If you reach someone who identifies as a Republican, you check that box and end the call.

2. No one answers their phone.

Surprisingly, people do. In the past several years, many of the applications used to dial the calls, known as “dialers,” make reaching people easier than ever. In a typical phone bank hour, I connect with 20 people, and talk to 10 Democrats.

3. I don’t like to ask for money.

I’ve never been on a phonebank that required asking for campaign contributions. You won’t be asked to do this.

4. People can be hostile on the phone.

Occasionally true, but overwhelmingly people are polite or simply hang up. Most dialers don’t reveal your cell number, so nothing to worry about there. Haters will be haters. I quickly move on.

5. I don’t know enough.

Every phonebank includes a quick, (no more than 30-minute) training in what you need to know and how to use the dialer. Each phonebank has an easy-to-read script of prepared questions. The scripts typically provide all the info you will need for the calls. Additionally, most people you reach won’t have time for long discussions, so knowing the basics is just fine.

6. What’s the point of making these calls? Seems futile.

Every phonebank has a specific purpose. Primarily, you are reminding Democrats about upcoming elections and ensuring that they have a plan to vote. In the past couple months, I’ve provided assistance and information to Democrats who needed to register to vote or request mail-in ballots.

It’s also good to remember that campaigns rely on data. “Cleaning up” a calling list by sorting out Republicans from Democrats, not to mention eliminating wrong or disconnected numbers, is hugely helpful in and of itself.

One of my favorite tips to pass on during calls is to ask Democrats to “vote triple,” by reminding their friends and family members to prepare for the upcoming election — thereby getting out more votes.

7. Talking to strangers makes me nervous.

It’s fine to feel nervous, especially on your first phonebank. Fumbling for words and making mistakes on calls is just part of the process. There’s always the next call, and you’ll likely be surprised at how quickly you hit your stride.

8. I don’t have time.

Remember, phonebanks are available every day of the week at various hours. You can phonebank for elections in every state and time zone in the U.S. at your convenience. Phonebanking for even an hour or two a week is still a great help.

9. How do I jump in?

Easy. Sign up for a phonebank with OFA!

Over the past four years, I can honestly say that phonebanking with OFA has helped me personally in so many ways. The leaders and members of this group are extremely dedicated and have a wealth of knowledge and political canvassing experience. As questions arise for me during phonebanks, they inevitably have the answers or the interest in helping me find them. I’ve also been able to share and refine my values through canvassing with this group. Most important, OFA has helped me turn worry into action — not to mention celebrate a lot of Dem wins along the way.