While reading houses is considered relatively new in political science circles, professionals have been doing it for years.

Reading a house is when you pull up to the front of the building and you gather what kind of voter you may be speaking to from any personal indicator that may decorate their home.

A military service flag is an indicator. When you knock on the door, you know someone in the home is likely a veteran or the parent of a service member.

A bumper sticker for a college is an indicator. When you knock on the door, there is a good possibility you could be speaking to an alumnist or current student of the school.

And it goes on and on. Sometimes, the truth may be spelled out clearly for you with old campaign bumper stickers from an earlier election cycle.

This is intelligence. And we use that intel to create a point of connection with the voter.

It may be as a conversation starter. You may be fans of the same sports team. It could be a closer if the conversation is going well and you want to end the talk on a happy note.

Reading a house may also give you warning signs. And you could be speaking to someone who may be supporting an opponent. You’ll need to alter your message to appeal on a broader basis.

It doesn’t even have to be political. You could see baby toys in the doorway (make sure they’re not napping when you knock) or a bowl of dog food. Use everything you see.

And finally, there are no guarantees. That car with the stickers may belong to a visitor.

But reading a house is a necessary part of grassroots campaigning. After a while, you’ll do it instinctively. And you won’t be able to shut it off.