Talking points you can use

Becoming an expert DM speaker is easy. You can get others excited about DM. Try it on everyone!

  • Be yourself - talk about why you joined and care about DM.

  • Be passionate/energetic - talk about how students can get involved and make a difference.

  • Use specific examples- Choose a hot-button issue that students care about.

  • Get them involved - Ask them to come to a DM meeting/event etc. (If time, ask them a question (e.g. What is the biggest problem today? Do students have a voice? Why do they deserve one? Why are you going to vote? etc.)

Your Basic Three-part DM Talk

  • Get ‘em pissed off  - Talk about how a big political problem/issue affects them.

  • Give ‘em a solution – Talk about how DM and its allies have been working to fix the problem. (If time, give different examples of DM events, lobbying, discussions etc.).

  • Get ‘em involved – Talk about why it’s important that they/students get politically involved to shape their future and solve problems. Tell them about DM meetings/events etc. (If more time, ask their opinion or a question e.g. What’s the biggest problem today? Do students deserve a voice? etc.)

Where to Speak About DM:

Everywhere! Tabling; canvassing; waiting in lines; talking with friends; in front of classes or other campus clubs.

Tips for Success:

  • Craft your own basic DM speech that lasts between 1 and 3 minutes (Be ready to adjust it for a shorter or longer time).

  • Know your audience – Slightly change your speech/examples to be relevant to your audience (e.g. general students vs. environmental activists vs. friends vs. strangers etc.)

  • Memorize your speech – At most, bring a couple of bullet reminder points on a small piece of paper or on your phone.

  • Speak up and slow down – You will be speaking louder and faster than you think!

  • Make eye contact with your audience - They need to know you are talking to them personally.

  • Answering questions – If you don’t know an answer, say so! Say you’ll look it up and get back to them.

  • More speaking - The more you give your DM speech, the easier it will be.

‍ ‍ PRACTICE, FRACTICE, PRACTICE…in front of a mirror or a friend!