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What is the career path to a successful career in politics?
What is the career path to working in politics? Politics seems really broad--working in government, working for companies or nonprofits that work with government--and I am a bit confused by the different options. But if I'm interested in figuring out what's politics is like in general (and I do have some interest in non-profits), what should I think about doing? #career-paths #government #politics #nonprofits
5 answers
Vanessa Williamson
Vanessa’s Answer
Not all kinds of political work are the same, and to know which kind you want to do, you might want to try volunteering for a few different kinds of groups. Here are some options:
Care about an issue, like the environment, homelessness, hunger, or education? Find a local group working on that issue and see if they need volunteers. If you aren't sure how to find a local group, you might want to look at idealist.org, and click on "Volunteer Opportunities." Type in your zip code, and see what comes up.
Thought about working in government? Why not see what politicians do all day? Contact your representatives and see how to become an intern or volunteer. (Use this site http://www.contactingthecongress.org/ and type in your address. It will pull up the phone number of your Representative's DC office. You can call their office directly. It is their job to listen to you. You can also look for your representative in the state legislature, or city council.)
Ever thought about running for office? Find a candidate you believe in and volunteer. You can go to the local office and make phone calls, or go door-to-door telling people about the candidate's positions and why you should vote for them. Next year is an election year, so there are plenty of campaigns to work on. It's a high-stress, high-speed kind of job, where you often work long hours -- but if you're a competitive person who likes to win, and if you have a candidate or party you believe in, this might be a good fit for you.
The good news is that no matter which of these kinds of political jobs appeals to you, different kinds of skills are valuable. Whether you are good at organizing people, talking, writing, money management, there are jobs for you.
Be prepared! When you start out, the work you do might not be that much fun. Entry-level work usually isn't. But take the opportunity to get to know the people working there, and tell them that you are thinking about a career in this field. Ask for their advice -- people are usually flattered and want to help, if you just ask. Don't be invisible, be cheerful, curious and engage with the people working there. If people see you are dedicated and interested, they will usually try and help you find the work you want to do. And even if you don't end up working in this particular field, those contacts can be valuable references or connections to other jobs.
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Hollie Russongilman
Hollie’s Answer
Interning for a government official and or agency or political campaign.
Johncole Mcardle
Johncole’s Answer
On the degree side of the house the last thing I would do is study politics, especially if you have aspirations of higher office. Not only does the degree transfer poorly if you end up wanting to change career fields, but the classes themselves are toxic with a bad professor.
Law degrees, STEM, and business are all great pre-cursors to a career in politics as they function as careers in their own right and will expose you to the nuances of a variety of different problems. It will also give the added benefit of getting to know a certain sector or business prior to entering politics, thus allowing you to leverage those relationships and experience.
Our nations best leaders, male and female, from both sides of the aisle are just that, leaders. They combine a deep understanding of complex problems with the ability to bring the right people together and ultimately arrive at a solution because at the end of the day all politics is is an exercise in solving problems. That could be as trivial and handing out aid at a non-profit, to something as complex as building a highway, road, or tunnel.
Regardless of the path you choose to take I wish you all the best in your endeavors!
Sikawayi Williams
Sikawayi’s Answer
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
Career Path to a Successful Career in Politics
1. Understanding the Landscape of Politics
Politics encompasses a wide range of activities and roles, including working in government, engaging with non-profit organizations, lobbying for corporate interests, or even participating in grassroots movements. To navigate this landscape effectively, it is essential to understand the various sectors within politics:
Government: This includes elected positions (like local, state, and federal offices) and appointed roles (such as civil service jobs).
Non-profits: Organizations that work on social issues often engage with government policies and can influence political decisions.
Private Sector: Many companies engage in lobbying efforts to influence legislation that affects their business.
2. Educational Background
A strong educational foundation is crucial for a career in politics. While there is no single path, certain degrees are particularly beneficial:
Political Science: Provides an understanding of governmental systems, political behavior, and public policy.
Law Degree (JD): Many politicians have legal backgrounds; law school teaches critical thinking and negotiation skills.
Public Administration or Public Policy: These programs focus on the management of public sector organizations and policy analysis.
Internships during college are also vital. They provide hands-on experience and networking opportunities. Look for internships with:
Local government offices
Non-profit organizations
Political campaigns
3. Gaining Experience
Experience is key in politics. Here are some ways to gain relevant experience:
Volunteer for Campaigns: Working on political campaigns helps you understand the electoral process and build connections.
Join Student Government or Political Organizations: This can provide leadership experience and insight into governance.
Work for Non-profits or Advocacy Groups: This will give you exposure to how policies affect communities and how advocacy works.
4. Networking
Building a network is essential in politics. Attend events such as:
Political fundraisers
Town hall meetings
Conferences related to your areas of interest
Networking can lead to mentorship opportunities which are invaluable for career advancement.
5. Entry-Level Positions
Consider starting with entry-level positions that align with your interests:
Legislative Assistant: Supports lawmakers by researching issues and drafting legislation.
Policy Analyst: Works within think tanks or non-profits analyzing policies’ impacts.
Community Organizer: Engages citizens around specific issues, often working with non-profits.
These roles will help you develop skills necessary for higher-level positions later on.
6. Continuing Education & Specialization
As you progress in your career, consider further education or specialization in areas like:
Environmental policy
Healthcare policy
International relations
This can enhance your expertise and make you more competitive for advanced roles.
7. Running for Office or Seeking Leadership Roles
If you’re interested in elected positions:
Start small—consider running for local office (e.g., city council).
Build a strong community presence through volunteer work and engagement.
Develop a clear platform based on community needs.
For those preferring non-profit leadership roles, aim for positions like Executive Director where strategic decision-making is key.
In summary, a successful career in politics requires a combination of education, practical experience, networking, entry-level job positions, continuous learning, and potentially seeking elected office or leadership roles within organizations aligned with your values.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. American Political Science Association (APSA)
The APSA provides resources on political science education and careers within the field of politics.
2. National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS)
NASS offers insights into various governmental roles and responsibilities at state levels which are crucial for understanding political careers.
3. Council on Foreign Relations (CFR)
CFR discusses public policy implications across various sectors including non-profits which interact closely with governmental processes.
GOD BLESS!
JC.