Want to start organizing your building or workplace but not sure where to begin?
Flyering is one of the oldest — and still one of the most powerful — ways to break the ice, start conversations, and build momentum. It’s simple, direct, and if done well, it can turn strangers into allies.

Here’s everything you need to know to get started.

Why Flyering Matters

Most people want better living or working conditions — they just don’t always know where to start. A flyer in the right place can:

• Plant the first seed that change is possible.
• Connect isolated renters or workers who think they’re alone.
• Build visibility for your union or organizing campaign.
• Create opportunities for real conversations and trust-building.

Key Elements of a Good Flyer

• Clear and Direct Headline:
  (“Tired of Rising Rents?” “Unsafe Conditions at Work?” “Let’s Organize!”)
• Brief Message:
  Stick to the basics — who you are, the issue you’re addressing, and an invitation to connect.
  (Example: “We’re neighbors who are starting a tenants union. Join us!”)
• Contact Info or Meeting Details:
  A way for people to reach you safely — a dedicated email, phone number, QR code, or meeting date/time.
• Simple, Bold Design:
  Big font, limited colors, and clear visuals make a huge difference. Think about people seeing it from a distance or skimming quickly.
• Language Accessibility:
  In Portland, English and Spanish are the minimum you should aim for — more if you know your community’s demographics.

Where to Flyer (Legally and Effectively)

• Apartment Complexes:
  • Under door mats (NOT inside mailboxes — that’s illegal).
  • Common areas like laundry rooms, mailrooms, or bulletin boards.
  • Entrances/exits where people naturally pause.
• Workplaces:
  • Public sidewalks near the building.
  • Community bulletin boards in nearby businesses.
  • Inside break rooms (only if safe and allowed).
• Neighborhood Spots:
  • Local cafes, groceries, laundromats, libraries.
  • Utility poles (just don’t cover official notices or overdo it).

⚡ Tip: Focus on visibility + repetition. A single flyer might get missed. Multiple flyers at different entry points = better odds someone notices.

Best Practices for Flyering Conversations

If you’re flyering in person (which is powerful when safe to do):

• Smile and Introduce Yourself:
  “Hi, I’m [Name]. I live/work here too. We’re trying to organize around [issue]. Here’s a flyer with more info!”
• Respect Boundaries:
  If someone’s not interested, don’t push. Leave the flyer, thank them, and move on.
• Listen More Than You Talk:
  A good conversation builds trust. Ask open-ended questions:
  • “Have you had issues here too?”
  • “What would you want to see change?”
• Stay Safe:
  Go with a buddy if possible. Trust your instincts. Never argue or escalate if someone gets aggressive.

Sample Quick Scripts

• Door Drop:
  “Leaving some information for folks who live here. Hope you’ll check it out!”
• Short Conversation Starter:
  “Hey, we’re organizing to make things better here. Would you be interested in connecting?”
• Follow-Up Invitation:
  “We’re having a first meeting [date/time]. No pressure — just a way to meet neighbors and talk.”

Common Questions

“Is it legal to flyer my building?”
Generally yes, as long as you don’t enter private units or tamper with mailboxes. Always use public/common areas unless your building has strict no-solicitation rules (and even then, residents have more rights than outside groups).

“What if management takes down our flyers?”
It happens. Take photos of your flyers up as proof. Then re-flyer. The goal is persistence, not perfection.

“What if I’m nervous?”
That’s normal! Remember: you’re offering people an opportunity, not forcing them into anything. Courage builds with practice — and you’re not alone.

Final Thoughts: Flyering is Organizing

Flyering isn’t just about handing out papers — it’s about planting the first seeds of a union. It’s a small act of courage that invites others to imagine a better future with you. And every flyer you post or hand out brings us one step closer to collective power.

Let’s get to work.