March 03rd, 2025

Alistair Clodi, Southern Area State Vice President

Running for Chapter Office is an exciting yet challenging process that requires dedication, strategy, and a strong understanding of leadership. It’s an opportunity to serve your Chapter, make a lasting impact, and grow as a leader. However, success in a Chapter Office race doesn’t just happen—it’s the result of careful planning and intentional effort. The process can be broken down into three key steps: self-image building, preparation, and campaigning.

Step 1: Self-Image Building

Before you even think about campaigning, you must establish a strong self-image. Your self-image is how you present yourself and how your peers perceive you. The way you behave and the reputation you build can significantly impact your chances of winning. Since Chapter elections are decided entirely by your classmates, it’s essential to earn their trust and respect.

There are several ways to cultivate a positive self-image. One of the most effective methods is actively participating in as many FBLA events as possible. This demonstrates dedication and commitment to the organization. Additionally, taking initiative by assisting current Chapter Officers with event planning and fundraising shows responsibility and leadership potential. Another powerful strategy is becoming the go-to person for FBLA-related questions—if fellow members turn to you before reaching out to Chapter Officers, it establishes you as a knowledgeable and reliable leader.

Step 2: Preparation

Once you have built a strong presence within your Chapter, the next step is preparation. Before officially launching your campaign, you need to assess several factors.

First, consider your current commitments—extracurricular activities, academic workload, and personal responsibilities. Holding a Chapter Office position requires a significant time investment, so it’s crucial to ensure you can balance it with your other obligations.

Next, evaluate the positions available and determine which role best aligns with your strengths and interests. For instance, I currently serve as my Chapter’s Treasurer because I enjoy creativity and event planning, which are key aspects of managing fundraising initiatives. However, I wouldn’t be the best fit for Parliamentarian, as I’m not highly familiar with Parliamentary Procedure. Choosing the right position ensures that you can be both effective and fulfilled in your role.

Step 3: Campaigning

Now comes the most visible part of the process—campaigning. Some candidates find this step thrilling, while others find it overwhelming. Either way, a well-executed campaign can set you apart and convince your Chapter members to vote for you.

Campaigning can be broken down into three key measures:

1. Develop a Theme and Slogan
Your theme and slogan should be memorable, simple, and engaging. It can incorporate your name, the position you’re running for, or be completely unique. For example, if your name is Mazie, a slogan like “Don’t Be Crazy, Vote for Mazie!” would be catchy and easy to remember. The key is to make your campaign stand out without overcomplicating it—sometimes, less is more.

2. Write Your Speech

Your speech is your chance to highlight your accomplishments, leadership skills, and position-specific qualifications. This is where you explain why you are the best candidate for the role. For example, if I were running for Reporter, I might emphasize my passion for social media by mentioning that I spend six hours a day on Instagram. While this may seem casual, it actually demonstrates that I understand social media engagement—a key responsibility of the role. I would also highlight my communication skills and how I would work with the President to keep members informed about events, community service opportunities, and deadlines. Finally, I would showcase my ability to keep members engaged by staying up-to-date with trending internet content.

3. Show Your Face

This is the most important part of your campaign. Connecting with members on a personal level increases your chances of earning their votes. While your speech introduces you to the audience, it may not captivate everyone. By taking the time to talk to members individually, you reinforce your message and show that you genuinely care about their support. People are far more likely to vote for a candidate who personally reaches out to them rather than someone who remains distant.
Running for Chapter Office is an incredible leadership opportunity, but it requires effort, strategy, and authenticity. The three essential steps—self-image building, preparation, and campaigning—form the foundation for a successful campaign. While each Chapter’s election process may differ, these steps provide a strong starting point for any aspiring candidate. By putting in the work to establish credibility, prepare effectively, and campaign strategically, you can maximize your chances of earning the position and making a lasting impact within your Chapter.