Introduction: Americans are flooded with information, especially advertisements, but a well-designed leaflet still has power: a leaflet on the doorstep recently boosted voter turnout 20% in several school bond levies. Another leaflet raised “yes” votes 25-45% in a gun control initiative in precincts where it was dropped on doormats.

Purpose: Leaflets can give general information or can illustrate key points, but their best use is when they give the recipient a specific task, whether it is attending a meeting, writing a letter, or joining a local group.

The Leaflet: Several are available now, others are in production. If your leaflet will be advertising a specific event, you’ll need to write your own. You don’t need fancy software, but you do need to be aware of your audience: they aren’t as passionate as you are, and won’t tolerate a page full of text (this fact sheet would make a lousy leaflet!).

Use graphics and empty space to make the flier easier on the eye, and keep quality (neatness, spelling, word use) high. Keeping the text 12 pt. or larger makes it easier to read, especially for older readers.

Make sure your leaflet has contact information so people can learn more and/or contact you. A tear-off donation/volunteer form will encourage people to give time and money.

Distribution: You can give your leaflet to people, or you can leave it where people will find it. The former takes more time, but gives you chances to talk to people. “Perfect your quick hit,” a few words that will interest people enough to take a leaflet, “Hear about Iraq from a woman who just got back,” or “ We’re building a Peace Movement here in Shoreline,” perhaps.

Different people will take you in different directions. I try to keep a few things in mind: first, always look for what we agree on. Second, there are people who’d love to talk for hours. That’s not your goal. When you aren’t going to get more from somebody, end the conversation - politely. Third, when you meet someone who wants to do more, make sure you contact them in a day or so, to remind and re-invite them, and to give them any more information that’s appropriate.

Leaflets can be placed on or under doormats, tucked into doors, placed in magazine/newspaper racks or dropped through mail slots. Don’t put them in mailboxes, though-its illegal. It’s good exercise, especially on a hillside. Placing leaflets under windshield wipers is less acceptable than on doormats, but useful in certain circumstances.  Finally, leaflets can be placed on tables at the entrance to many record stores, churches, cafes, libraries and other businesses. Just leave a few at each location.

Of course, you can also pass them around at any meeting, class or other gathering that seems appropriate.

As far as leafleting on the “street” is concerned: Look for a place with lots of pedestrians. You should be able to set up on any sidewalk. “Blocking” pedestrians is illegal, but ill defined. Seattle police have arrested one man for standing on Broadway with a clipboard gathering signatures (but the state Supreme Court did uphold his right). Find a spot where you aren’t a nuisance, and you'll probably be OK. If police tell you to leave, you should probably leave. Private property, such as store entrances, may work. Ask store personnel. Malls are generally not worth the trouble. If it’s winter, keep an eye out for locations with protection from the weather.

Think long-term:  If you intend to produce a series of leaflets, having a consistent style will help win you repeat customers. Use the same fonts in the same sizes, the same layout on the paper, etc.