By Matt HowertonTo get your foot in the door in politics is not much different than many other fields of expertise, you have to “climb the ladder.”
Sure, there are cases where people have been at the right place at the right time but nearly all the campaign managers, chiefs of staff, and political consultants started from the bottom and worked their way up.
I’m sure you’re asking yourself, what would that look like?
You should start by volunteering or interning for your local political party or candidate of your choice. Although it is sure to be unpaid, the connections and experience you gain will serve you well going forward.
Once you have checked that first box, you will be able to seek out other opportunities for an entry-level position with a political organization. Make sure your resume is up-to-date and consider requesting a letter of recommendation from your previous supervisor.
A great organization for plugging in to entry-level jobs is Young Americans for Liberty (YAL) which is a non-partisan, non-profit group of libertarian-conservatives. Every year, they mobilize hundreds of field representatives on campaigns across the country through their “Operation Win at the Door.”
If you are a college student, consider contacting YAL to start a chapter on your college campus. The activism, experience, and connections will serve you well in the future. Plus, being president of a college organization will look good on your resume!
Once you have successfully performed the duties of a volunteer, intern, and field representative (or other entry-level position), you should be able to seek out other opportunities by relying on your previous experience.
One of the best ways to see what is available in the current job market is by creating an account with the Leadership Institute’s conservativejobs.com. You will see a wide range of political jobs, many which you can apply to with one click.
The Leadership Institute also offers dozens of courses in specific areas of expertise at their Arlington, VA location with no charge for housing. Since 1979, “LI” has trained more than 200,000 conservative activists including many elected officials.
“No one has done more to inspire and train young conservatives than Morton Blackwell and the Leadership Institute.” – Vice President Mike Pence