There are always more digital job opportunities than qualified individuals available in Republican politics. Ive always got a running list of campaigns, committees, and organizations who are looking to fill a digital position.
I'm often asked what the skills are that a digital professional needs, and the assumption is usually that there is some set of concrete knowledge that an individual needs to possess. But I dont think thats the case. In fact, I usually tell them Id rather take someone who understands politics and has the right mindset, then train them in digital skills
So heres my take on a job description for your campaigns next digital director or a roadmap if youre looking to get into digital politics.
Youre Digital First
Technically, everyone of a certain age is a digital native, but in this sense, Im referring to the mindset that your first solution to any challenge involves technology or digital marketing. Every campaign needs someone who wakes up everyday thinking about how youll win online.
You Know The Matrix
No, not that Matrix. Im referring to the matrix that covers the four things every campaign needs to do:
Win VotesEarn AttentionRaise MoneyUpset Your Opponent
If what youre doing in digital doesnt obviously fit into one of these squares, you shouldnt be doing it.
You Get the Joke on Social Media
Digital has unfortunately for many people become a shorthand for social media, but thats a little like saying a mechanic only changes your cars oil. Its important, sure, but thats not the only thing youre doing
In fact, I think the amount of time spent worrying about social media is disproportionate to the benefit it gives your campaign.
Youre Not Afraid of Code
Again, Im often asked if theres some sort of alphabet soup of languages like HTML, CSS, SQL, etc that a digital person needs to know. The answer is no. What you really need is a willingness to look under the hood and not be fearful that youre going to mess something up. Every line of HTML or CSS or SQL I know, I learned by Googling until I found the right snippet to do what I wanted to do.
You Understand Resources Are Limited
Campaigns are tough. The amount of money you can raise is limited and youre never going to have enough to do everything you want, but even worse, your most limited asset is time. I cant tell you how many good ideas or intentions Ive had that fell by the wayside during a campaign
As Mike Tyson said, everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face. Being on a campaign is like being on the receiving end of a speed bag workout for months. Youve got to do the best you can with what youve got while youve got it. Sometimes youve just got to get an email out the door, hit send on the Tweet, or publish the video. If youre waiting for perfect, you might as well go to your opponents victory celebration.
If youve got these key skills already combined with a willingness to learn youll excel as a digital director on a campaign.