The success of a special census is largely dependent on recruitment and the participation of residents within a special census area.

Effective recruitment helps inform local residents of the temporary U.S. Census Bureau jobs available, such as for field representative positions or field supervisor(s).

In addition, the goal of outreach is to increase awareness of a special census and to motivate participation of all residents by encouraging households to respond online if they receive an invitation in the mail. Outreach also aids in cooperation when a U.S. Census Bureau field representative visits to collect answers in person. Responding online and cooperating with field representatives both increase the accuracy of the data collected.

To support this outreach, the U.S. Census Bureau created materials in English and Spanish, including handouts and social media content about a special census. Governmental units may use these materials for recruitment and promotion to engage their communities to participate.

It is essential for the success of a special census that the sponsoring governmental unit publicize the availability of job positions and encourage residents to respond using the handouts and social media content provided.

Special census jobs and outreach can be advertised through multiple means including, but not limited to:

• Handouts in job centers and other public places within the community,
• Public service announcements,
• Recruiting messages in utility bill inserts, newsletters, and other local resources,
• Community outreach such as presentations to community, civic, and faith-based groups to explain a special census and to promote U.S. Census Bureau jobs,
• Articles for local newspapers,
• Job announcements that can be posted on your government website and social media accounts,
• Word-of-mouth: promoting jobs to neighbors, friends, and acquaintances.