There must be 50 ways: Participating in democracy #28: Knock on doors

While some with enough space can host a candidate's canvassing or otherwise be part of that hosting, knocking on doors for your candidate or your issue can either be a part of a group organized effort or just your own utterly independent activity. 

Over the years, I have learned that it's far more effective to knock on the doors in your own neighborhood because it affords you the authenticity to note something like, "Hi, I'm Tom, your neighbor just a couple blocks from here, on Russet, by the Umpqua Bank. I love your front yard plantings and happy to have the chance to thank you for them, for beautifying our neighborhood. You actually inspired me to plant some crocuses. Do you have a minute to briefly discuss the upcoming city council election? I'd love to get your take on it." 

Even if you are in another neighborhood, of course, you can dish out appropriate compliments as a quick icebreaker and connector. I find that is like a bit of social conversation WD-40 that makes the awkwardness diminish.

If you are such an extrovert that you don't relate to my reference to awkwardness, please know that many of us envy you!

If you are part of a professionally organized canvass, you will likely have a clipboard with specific addresses to approach. If not, you get to just go door-to-door, skipping the ones with "No solicitor" signs or fenced yards with signs like "Beware of dog." Knocking on doors should not be a blood sport.