A manifesto is compulsory for all candidates running in the election and must be submitted before the deadline otherwise your nomination will be withdrawn from the election.
The word 'manifesto' originates from the Latin 'manifestus', meaning 'obvious'. This then developed into a 'manifesto' a bit later on, which caused the meaning to shift to 'make public'. So put quite literally, a manifesto means to make the obvious public. This is a key idea to keep in mind when writing your manifesto, as it will help cut out a lot of waffles and allow you to get to the crux of your objectives.?
Manifestos typically occur within political spheres, and give individuals space to outline what they intend to do within a specific role or responsibility. Some of you may be aware of the concept of 'manifesting' (where an individual visualises what they intend to happen) which is also a helpful image to keep in mind: think about exactly what you intend to do within the boundaries of the role you are going for.
A Manifesto should be explaining to students (voters!), why they should vote for you in the election. It should include what your priorities would be if you were elected.
Tips for Writing your Manifesto
- Be Clear -Don't use over-complicated language
- Think Snappy - It's not about how much you write! Explain your goals clearly and quickly (You have a 500-word limit!).
- Why should they vote for you?- Be clear on why you are running in the election and what you will do with the role if elected.
- Talk about yourself - Let students know the type of person they would be voting for, including your experience and skills.
- Goals - What are your top three priorities if elected? (Be clear on what you would do).
- Voters- Remember Voters will see your manifesto before they vote.
- Be sure- you cannot change your manifesto once submitted.
Manifesto Layout Template
Manifestos can only be 500 words maximum. It must not be submitted in any artwork, just normal text.
Name:
Manifesto Slogan: (A snappy slogan for your campaign, for example A vote for Emily is a vote for Free Education).
Who are you: (Introduce yourself)
5 Aims if you were elected:
(5 quick bullet points, on what you will focus on if you are elected).
Example:
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Free Education
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Longer Libary Opening Hours
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Accountability on email response times at the University
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Guest Speaker events for all departments
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More Benefits for Course Reps
What will you bring to the role:
(Experience, skills, passions?)
Summarise:
(End of why students should vote for you)