Pros
You do not need any previous experience with canvassing before going into this job, because the management takes great care in teaching each prospective employee the basic skills. Additionally, all are made to feel welcome as a newcomer, through a constant practice of "positive and progressive" work behavior. While canvassing is not an easy job by any means, it helps build strong communication skills and ability to overcome any obstacle. After dedicating time to this job, you will leave feeling as though you can tackle any sort of situation thrown at you. You quickly learn the necessity of confidence (through body language, tone, and language), all skills that are important in a career. If you do a good job at your job, you are able to quickly rise, and opportunities to train and manage become open. Another pro: You get to go to neighborhoods and towns you would probably never visit on your own time, and you get to meet wonderful human beings who restore your faith in humanity. People who genuinely care about the causes you fight for, people who offer you tea/coffee/water/cookies, people who take the time out of their day to listen to what you have to say. Also, who wants to work indoors all the time? I know I don't. If you love walking around all day, talking to people and having awesome (and sometimes silly/weird) interactions with people, then CWA is for you!
Cons
The pay is very competitive, in the sense that you need to perform/fundraise well in order to have a decent paycheck. This can be stressful. Also, this job is not for someone with poor communication skills and/or confidence!! You must be able to look someone confidently in the eye while explaining clearly and concisely the goals of the organization. You must not be fearful of those "unfriendly doors", those who either yell at you or slam the door in your face. Persistence is important, and if you are the kind of person to give up easily, this job is not for you. AND, you must be able to handle all of the elements, as CWA canvasses in all types of weather (be it rain, snow, or shine), as well as day and night.
