By Lance McArthur
Working in politics can be an exciting and rewarding career path. Getting your foot in the door usually requires dedication, hard work, and the right skillset. If you’re considering a career in politics, here are some key qualities and capabilities you’ll need to cultivate.
The first step to any political career is having a strong CV. A CV maker free can help with this. Your CV will likely be your first impression, so it needs to be well-written, detail your relevant experience and skills, and make you stand out. Invest time perfecting your CV before applying for political jobs or internships.
Educational Background
While there are some exceptions, most careers in UK politics require a bachelor’s degree at minimum. Common degree subjects include political science, government, public policy, and law. Coursework should provide foundational knowledge about UK political systems, policymaking, elections, and governance.
Advanced degrees like a master’s or Ph.D. in a related field will make you more competitive for research, analysis, advising, and leadership roles. Fields like public administration, international relations, economics, and business are also worthwhile if you want to specialise.
Internships, fellowships, or research projects as a student give hands-on political experience. Work on political campaigns, volunteer for advocacy groups, or join student government. These activities look great on a CV.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Working in politics requires strong communication and people skills. You’ll need to tailor messages to different audiences, collaborate in teams, negotiate agreements, and represent your organisation persuasively.
Writing and public speaking skills are essential. You’ll draft policy briefs, speeches, press releases, and more. Strong research and critical thinking skills help craft effective arguments. Build these skills through coursework, student organisations, and campus leadership roles.
Listening and building relationships are also crucial. Understanding constituents’ interests, earning colleagues’ trust, and finding common ground require emotional intelligence. Politics is about working with people, so develop patience and empathy.
Passion and Tenacity
A career in politics involves fast-paced, demanding work. Passion for issues you care about and tenacity to work through challenges are must-haves. Public service and policymaking often require long hours and sacrifice.
Working in politics also means dealing with conflict, opposition, and disappointment when efforts fail. Persistence and resilience are vital. Motivation to improve society and people’s lives will sustain you when the going gets tough.
Political jobs involve constant learning. Issues, constituencies, and policy solutions evolve over time. Lifelong curiosity and intellectual flexibility will help you grow and adapt.
Policy Knowledge
Understanding how policies are made, implemented, and assessed is fundamental. Develop expertise in specific issue areas like healthcare, education, economic policy, or foreign affairs as they pertain to the UK. Follow current legislation in Parliament, devolved assemblies, or local councils.
Gain broad exposure to UK policy issues and debates. Read UK political news and analysis, think tank reports, and scholarship in your area of interest. Take courses examining empirical research and competing policy proposals around key problems facing the UK.
When launching your career, look for entry-level roles focused on research, outreach, communications, campaign fieldwork, or advocacy. Build your policy chops before working your way up to advisor or leadership positions.
Work Experience
Gaining practical work experience in politics, government, or public service looks great when applying for jobs. It builds your network and shows firsthand knowledge.
Internships in MPs’ offices, government agencies, think tanks, advocacy groups, or campaigns are invaluable. Entry-level jobs as staff assistants, outreach coordinators, researchers, and community liaisons can lead to greater responsibility over time.
If you aren’t yet sure what role most interests you, try different types of political work before specialising. Build connections and learn the UK political landscape.
Thick Skin
Politics can be cutthroat. Developing a thick skin and not taking criticism personally is key. You’ll face opposition, heated debates, compromise, and negativity. Letting it roll off your back while sticking to your principles matters.
Controversy and scrutiny come with the territory in political life. Handling conflict constructively, admitting mistakes, and moving forward resiliently are essential skills. Keep perspective on what matters most in serving causes bigger than yourself.
Working in politics is a passion and calling more than just a career. Do you feel compelled to improve society, give voice to the voiceless, and create positive change? Are you willing to work hard for your beliefs? Can you communicate skillfully, collaborate with allies and adversaries, and persevere through ups and downs? If so, you may have what it takes!
There are many rewarding roles to pursue. Find where your talents and interests most align. Get the right education, experience, policy knowledge, and soft skills. Stay motivated by your sense of purpose. With drive and commitment, you can make an impact working in UK politics.
