Door knocking is a short visit (less than 10 minutes) used to find people in the neighborhood who MIGHT be interested interested in joining your organization. This is NOT an in-depth visit. You save that for later, in a follow-up visit, or a one-on-one meeting.

when the person comes to the door, in about 30 seconds you should

1. Smile, look them in the eye, say your name.
2. Tell them your organization.
3. Authorize and legitimatize yourself. (Know the history of your organization--mention anyone who they might know who legitimizes you, your organization, and your visit)
4. Ask what they are concerned about -- suggest some possibilities other people said that they were concerned about, so they get the idea of what you mean. Ask: “We are here to find out what YOU are concerned about...” Use the word “you” not “people in the neighborhood” or some other more general phrase

   Then LISTEN! You should not talk more than 30 seconds when you start. Your job is to let them know who you are, where you come from, and -- quickly, ask to hear from them. As follow up questions. Don't make a lot of talk. Ask questions and LISTEN.

5. Ask for their name and phone number. Tell them they can decline if they don't feel comfortable giving you this information.
6. Record their name and phone number so you can get back to them.
7. If no one is home, leave flyer or “door hanger card” letting them know you stopped by. Record where you left a flyer.
8. The whole visit should take no more than 10 minutes. Don't get into long conversations. If the person seems like a potential leader, make an appointment to go back to see them later.
9. Move on to the the next door.
10. Keep a record of the addresses you door-knocked, if some one was home or not, etc.