#1: Run for the position YOU want!

If you’re reading this, you’re probably thinking about running for board. Once you take the step to become more involved in leadership, a tough question arises: What do I run for? The answer is simple, whatever you want! You shouldn’t hold yourself back because you think you’re too young, or you think you’re not qualified enough. You can’t predict the future; you don’t know how the election will turn out. If you want it and the passion is genuine, then go for it!

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#2: Use the ability to slide to your advantage. 

For some, elections require a strategic plan. However, no results can be guaranteed. If the situation happens to be that you lose, there are plans in place for that. Even though you lost your caucused position,  you still have an opportunity to be on board. Take advantage of that opportunity! Before elections, look into the position you’re sliding to and start thinking of ideas for it. Although it can feel like negative manifesting, it’s better to be prepared on the off-chance that you do lose your desired position. 

#3: Come prepared.

Honestly, questions can be the most nerve-racking part of elections. You can prepare your speech and platform and work tirelessly to perfect them. With questions, you never know what’s coming. My best advice is to look into every detail of your caucused position and know it like your life depends on it (but it doesn’t). Be ready for anything!

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#4: Recognize that running comes with a possibility of 2 outcomes: winning, or losing.

Before running, it’s important to recognize that you can either win or lose. Most of the time, you are running opposed, which obviously increases your chances of losing. If you win, congrats! If you lose, remind yourself that it’s not because everyone hates you or you suck. Chances are that your opponent either was more qualified, they delivered a better speech, or created a better platform. If losing is the outcome you receive, don’t take it personally. You win some; you lose some, it’s all part of the process. 

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#5: If you don’t win, don’t become discouraged!

As I previously stated, losing is part of the process. Don’t get discouraged. Sometimes you have to lose to learn. If you are devoted to the position you ran for, take the next term to let yourself become overqualified. It’s important that you don’t give up, as that can show members that you weren’t super committed to begin with. If you want something, work towards it, and if it’s meant to be, you will achieve success. Remember, everything happens for a reason!

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