Before going any further though, we’d like to thank you for participating in Refer-a-Rider.  We’re pulling out all the stops this year to reach our goal of 2,500 members by early 2012.  Getting our existing members engaged is a crucial part of turning this dream into a reality. 

With that said, here are a few important pointers to remember while campaigning!

Top 5 Refer-a-Rider Tips:

1) Make it Personal

Reach out to individuals personally.  People often make the mistake of sending a mass message and expecting response.  Yet most people often don't respond to mass messages.  Instead, consider writing a personal email, making a phone call or talking about your campaign in person.

There are many ways to connect with people about becoming a member.  Most people want to join the bike union because they support our push for safer streets across Toronto.  The more members we have, the louder our voice becomes.  Think about the issues that matter most to your friends, family and colleagues and connect with them on those points. 

2) Personalize your Campaign Page & URL

Include a personal message on your campaign page with your name in the title of the page, upload a photo, and send out the link using your personal email.

Use your campaign page to tell people why cycling is important to you.  We can also change your URL to something more personal if you prefer - contact Jared Kolb for more!

3) Use Social Media

Social media such as Facebook and Twitter are great ways to reinforce your message.   Tweet your campaign page or post it to you wall.  Be wary though: only using social media generally does a poor job of turning your message into members.

If you’re on Facebook or Twitter, send out your link using a personal message

4) Follow Up

After you have contacted your friends, family and colleagues, remember to follow up! 

5) Throw a Party – We’ll Support You!

Think about throwing a Refer-a-Rider party or holding an event in your community.  We’re happy to send out one of our Bikewatch volunteers to help you! 

Summarizing These Tips with a To Do List:

- Write down a list of everyone you know who might believe in our cause or think that safe cycling infrastructure is important
- Send those folks a personal message including a link to your page
- Use social media like Facebook and Twitter to reinforce your message
- Follow up!
- Hold an event or throw a party to help your campaign

More questions? Contact Jared Kolb.