No sooner is a president elected than the next campaign starts.

The path to high office traditionally starts with several years service as a governor or member of Congress.The prospective candidate should learn as much as possible about domestic and foreign policy issues while developing a reputation as an effective leader.

Early on, the prospective candidate must secure his or her place among those who are “widely mentioned” in the media as serious presidential contenders. The candidate should regularly accept invitations to be interviewed on Sunday talk shows and cable news programs. Presidential candidates should travel throughout the country to build relationships with key political figures. The itinerary should include frequent visits to early primary and caucus states. Prospective presidential candidates should be generous in campaigning for party candidates for governor or Congress.

Formation of an exploratory committee adds gravity to the campaign while giving the candidate a mechanism for raising money, A year or so prior to the start of the nominating season, the candidate makes an official announcement and forms a campaign committee.

The candidate will then assemble a loyal and experienced team of operatives to provide advice on policy and campaign issues. The campaign organization must work hard to build support in all primary and caucus states, paying close attention to requirements for petition filing and expense reporting.

Candidates should adopt a strategy with the simple goal of winning as many committed delegates as possible needed to secure the nomination.