Danielle Haynes
I advocate for women and children of Domestic Violence and help others cope with the reality of moving forward and becoming the better version of themselves
What do you attribute your success to?
I would say I am so successful because when I put my mind to something I never stop until I achieve what I want and I have a lot of dreams to one day me more than just a voice for those who feel they can’t speak for themselves I want to make meaningful change in peoples lives
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is that no matter how hard you try at something there will always be someone who is unsatisfied and that’s okay because at the end of the day you can’t satisfy everyones
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
When it comes to politics I would say
Great question — and an important one. Here’s practical, actionable advice for young women who want to enter politics, organized so you can pick what’s most useful right now.
Mindset and long-term approach
- Know you belong: lots of qualified women don’t run because they wait to be “perfect.” Experience and credibility grow as you participate — you don’t need to check every box.
- Be persistent: politics is a long game. Expect setbacks and learn from them.
- Own your story: personal experiences are a powerful way to connect with voters and build authenticity.
Skills and expertise to develop
- Policy knowledge: pick a few issues you care about and become the go-to person on them. Read reports, talk to experts, and develop clear, evidence-based positions.
- Communication: practice concise messaging, storytelling, debate skills, and interview/press training.
- Campaign skills: fundraising, volunteer recruitment, voter contact (canvassing/phonebanking), data basics, and budgeting.
- Leadership & negotiation: coalition-building, conflict resolution, and managing teams.
Practical campaign building
- Start local: school boards, city councils, and community boards are excellent first steps to build experience and name recognition.
- Build a core team early: campaign manager, treasurer (compliance), communications lead, and a volunteer coordinator.
- Fundraising plan: set targets, diversify revenue (small donors, events, large donors), and invest time in relationships.
- Voter contact: prioritize face-to-face or phone conversations; personal contact still has the highest impact.
- Compliance: learn campaign finance and election law for your jurisdiction — fines or disqualification are avoidable but real risks.
Messaging and media
- Have a simple “why I’m running” message and a few policy hits tailored to different audiences.
- Use social media strategically: consistent voice, frequent local engagement, quick responses to misinformation.
- Prepare for hostile interviews and hostile social media — practice staying calm, bridging back to your message, and having clear facts.
Networking, mentorship, and coalitions
- Find mentors and sponsors — inside and outside of politics. Mentors advise; sponsors actively open doors.
- Build cross-constituency coalitions: other community leaders, unions, faith groups, business owners, youth groups.
- Join women’s political training groups, candidate networks, and local civic organizations.
Safety, harassment, and well-being
- Plan for negative attention: document harassing messages, set up privacy protections for family, and know legal recourse in your area.
- Have a trusted adviser and lawyer for crisis moments (threats, false accusations, doxxing).
- Protect your time and mental health: set boundaries, delegate, and schedule downtime.
Ethics and trust
- Be transparent about conflicts of interest and finances.
- Keep promises and be accountable — integrity builds long-term political capital.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest Challenge is that knowing there are going to be people who have different opinions and that’s okay but also knowing that there will be others who try to force there own agenda on you and knowing when to step back from the situation
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
For me my values is knowing that I have a support system both personal and professional. I have so many great friends in my professional life who would do anything for me and I have so many great friends outside of work at my church and my Best Friend for life Sarah, I don’t know what I would do without her
Expert Insights
Locations
TPUSA Rise- Clemson SC
Clemson, SC