Yesterday I had jury duty and was able to observe political marketing in action - even on a very local level. Here is what I experienced.

Upon arrival at the parking lot, each jury duty attendee was greeted by a candidate running for the office of County Sheriff.  He was the first person we came in contact with. 

Now, you ask what does this have to do with marketing.  Everything…

First, the candidate was out very early in the morning in drizzling rain to greet potential voters.  That showed commitment.

Second, he was shaking hands with people who were likely to vote in the upcoming elections.  When you register to vote, you are added to the jury pool in my county.  Connecting with his target audience.

Third, he gave every juror a printed card outlining his position and why he wanted our votes.  Info-marketing.

Fourth, he was branding himself by association with the legal process.  Though he was not endorsed in any way, he positioned himself at the initial point of contact for the legal and judicial system.  

Fifth, he was willing to do what his competition was not willing to do.  And, for that reason alone, he left a memorable impression with his target audience.

So guess who gets my vote?  

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