How to Craft a Quality Candidate Statement

Candidate statements are critical to a good election, allowing voters to get to know candidates and make informed decisions. But how do you ensure you’re crafting a quality statement? We’ll discuss that, and more, below.

What Is a Candidate Statement?

As the name suggests, a candidate statement is a written statement that informs voters about candidates. It should express all essential information, including:

• Who the candidate is
• Why they’re interested in the position/role
• Their experience and expertise
• Why they deserve to win the vote

If voters lack access to adequate information about candidates, they may seek alternatives or lack the confidence to vote.

What Makes an Ideal Candidate Statement?

The ideal candidate statement should offer voters a comprehensive overview of who the candidate is and what they stand for. The following steps can help boost voter confidence and effectively convey each candidate’s essential traits.

1. Knowing How to Start a Candidate Statement

The introduction to a candidate statement should be concise yet impactful, prioritizing clarity and purpose. Avoid fluff and unnecessary additions without compromising the tone of your introduction.

To appeal to voters, candidates should highlight their skills and experience, demonstrating how this unique blend makes them an ideal choice for the position.

2. Showcasing Candidate Successes

The ideal candidate statement demonstrates past successes. Try to showcase a previous achievement and what the candidate did to accomplish it. The statement should also highlight how the candidate overcame a past obstacle.

Both examples should highlight how the candidate’s past experiences have prepared them for the position.

3. Using Future-Focused Language

When writing a candidate statement, incorporate as much forward-focused language as possible. Voters are more likely to choose candidates who encourage change, acknowledge organizational challenges, and offer viable solutions.

The candidate’s vision of the future, complete with ambitious yet attainable goals, paints a picture of how their leadership will encourage growth within the organization.

4. Providing Social Proof

Use social proof to bolster candidate credibility. Whether it takes the form of testimonials, accolades, or endorsements from community or industry leaders, it can go a long way.

5. Building a Relatable Persona

Even the best candidates may struggle to gain traction if voters don’t find them relatable. For optimal results, ensure candidates use relatable language and true stories that appeal to the target audience.

6. Emphasizing Benefits

To attract voters, a candidate should emphasize what sets them apart. Detailed explanations of the benefits voters gain by supporting them can make the statement more compelling.

The clearer the statement communicates these benefits, the more likely voters are to cast a ballot.

7. Reviewing and Refining the Statement

As with any statement, ensuring quality should be a top priority. After writing the statement, review it thoroughly. Look for any unnecessarily wordy parts, overly negative language, or inaccuracies.

The more concise, accurate, and inspiring the statement is, the more it will attract voters. Having trusted individuals review the statement can help ensure the candidate hasn’t missed opportunities to strengthen the message.

How Long Should a Candidate Statement Be?

It can vary, but the optimal length is often around 150 to 300 words. Candidate statements should be concise, moving, and easy to read in one sitting. This approach encourages voters to read the entire statement so they can make an informed decision.

If statements are going on the ballot, consider the type that will be used in the election. Concision matters for all ballots, including digital ones. But it’s especially important for paper ballots that have a fixed amount of space. Some organizations send ballot packages with a separate sheet for candidate statements, offering more room.

The statement’s format can also influence the length. Some organizations prefer bullet points or offer specific questions for candidates to answer. Some even allow videos. The format you’re working with should always factor in as you craft a candidate statement.

Contact Survey & Ballot Systems (SBS) for Your Next Organizational Election

Whatever your organization is voting on, fairness and transparency are essential. SBS is a trusted provider of election and survey services, using advanced technology to offer reliable solutions that simplify private elections.

Contact us today to discuss the details or request a quote. We’d love to help make your next election frictionless.