Few things make a person feel more valued than hearing their own name. As Dale Carnegie famously wrote in How to Win Friends and Influence People, “A person’s name is to that person the sweetest sound in any language.” In politics, remembering and using names isn’t just courteous—it’s strategic. Whether you’re speaking with voters, addressing volunteers, or meeting donors, remembering names builds personal connections and shows people that they matter to you. In this blog post, we’ll explore why names are so powerful and how you can master the art of remembering them.

What separates a good leader from a great one? The ability to turn failure into fuel. Zig Ziglar once said, “Remember that failure is an event, not a person.” This profound truth is a reminder that in politics, setbacks are inevitable—but how you respond to them determines your success. Every campaign faces challenges, but the strongest leaders use those moments to showcase their resilience, creativity, and vision for the future.

Inclusivity is a cornerstone of successful political campaigns. Engaging diverse communities ensures every voice is heard and strengthens the democratic process. Behavioral nudges, as outlined in Richard Thaler’s Nudge, can play a vital role in fostering inclusivity by reducing barriers to participation and empowering underrepresented groups. From accessible voter registration to targeted outreach, nudges can help campaigns connect with broader audiences and ensure everyone has an equal opportunity to participate.

What if one tiny tweak could transform your campaign’s success? The devil—and the win—is in the details. The Insight: Rory Sutherland emphasizes the outsized impact of small changes, noting that “The smallest things can create the biggest shifts.” In political campaigns, a slight adjustment in tone, visuals, or messaging can be the difference between indifference and enthusiasm.

Great leaders come in all shapes and styles. Some inspire with fiery speeches, while others lead with quiet determination. As a political candidate, understanding your unique leadership style is essential. This self-awareness not only helps you connect with voters but also guides your decision-making and campaign strategy. This post explores how to identify and embrace your leadership style to strengthen your campaign and resonate with your audience.

In the world of political campaigns, every candidate has a “what” and a “how.” They talk about their policies, strategies, and accomplishments. But the truly memorable campaigns—the ones that inspire voters and spark movements—start with why. As Simon Sinek explains in Start with Why, “People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it.” In politics, this means voters don’t just care about your platform—they care about the purpose and passion driving your platform. Leading with your “why” transforms your campaign messaging from a list of policies into a rallying cry that resonates emotionally with your audience.

In politics, trust is everything. But in an age of increasing voter skepticism, trust can’t be manufactured—it must be earned. One of the most powerful ways to earn trust is by demonstrating what Nassim Taleb calls “skin in the game”—the idea that true leaders share in the risks and consequences of their decisions. As Taleb explains in Skin in the Game, “To have skin in the game is to have exposure to real-world consequences—both good and bad.” For political candidates, this means more than offering polished speeches and grand promises. It means showing voters that you’re not just leading from the top, but walking alongside them, facing the same challenges and consequences they do.

Have you ever asked yourself, “Why am I here?” It’s one of life’s most profound questions, and Rick Warren’s Purpose Driven Life reminds us that we’re not here by accident. But what if this isn’t just an individual question? What if it’s one we should also be asking of our nation—and our campaigns? In today’s fractured world, the stakes have never been higher. Politicians talk past each other, communities feel disconnected, and many campaigns lack a meaningful vision. But here’s the truth: just like individuals, campaigns and movements need purpose to thrive. Without it, we’re left chasing fleeting wins instead of shaping a future worth believing in.

Motivating a campaign team, from volunteers to senior staff, is one of the most important tasks for a political candidate or leader. As Dale Carnegie writes in How to Win Friends and Influence People, “Any fool can criticize, condemn, and complain—and most fools do. But it takes character and self-control to be understanding and forgiving.” Instead of pointing out flaws or mistakes, effective leaders inspire action and loyalty by praising effort and offering constructive guidance. In this blog post, we’ll explore how praise, not criticism, can elevate your team and drive your campaign forward.