Tabling
You can table anywhere where people pass by or gather. A lunchroom, in front of a supermarket, at a carnival or community event, a busy sidewalk – all of these venues would work! Tabling is one of the superior and constant ways to get your message out to the broader public.
Tabling provides a forum for one-on-one recruitment, and it manages to draw people over on their own initiative. Materials can be displayed at a table, such as banners, posters, fact sheets, books, buttons, and newspaper articles. Tabling is also easy to do—it takes very few resources and even the newest volunteer can table effectively.
Table Placement
- Table placement is critical to the success of the effort.
- Place your table in a high traffic area.
- Table in a variety of places to attract a variety of people.
- But only table where you have permission. Not all venues will allow you to set up a table without having asked or somehow made arrangements.
Tabling Tips
- Use the table as a base, not as a wall to hide behind – try not to stand behind the table. Instead stand in front of it, and invite people to come look at your materials.
- Determine what you want to get out of a day of tabling. For example: 100 postcards signed, 30 people signed up to become more involved, or 15 hand written letters.
- Keep the table well stocked and well marked. Interesting visuals and additions are always a plus. Have fun with it. Display a TV monitor playing the tape about the Arctic Refuge, bring someone in a polar bear costume handing out stickers, play nature sounds in the background (or caribou music if you have it!).
Some Things to Bring with You Tabling
- Sign up sheets and pens! Include email to start a local eAlert list serve.
- Letter writing materials.
- Petitions or postcards.
- Information about the campaign.
- A colorful visual display.
- Things to attract attention.
- Business cards.
- Information on how to become a member of the Alaska Wilderness League!
- Volunteers!
