As John McCain and Barack Obama begin their search for the perfect running mate, those on the short list can sit passively by, waiting for the telephone to ring. Or they can follow the advice of a range of political operatives from both parties who shared their tips with Time on how to go from vice-presidential hopeful to the chosen one.
Do:
Whatever you are asked to by the campaign--from raising money to going on TV.
Suck up to Mrs. Obama/McCain. The spouse will be the final person the candidate consults before he decides.
Quietly make sure your allies with influence...