Job Description
A politicians assistant will provide administrative support to MP's this could be relating to legislation, research, media relations or lobbying. Other duties may include responding to emails, answering the phone, supervising paid and volunteer support staff, updating databases, arranging meetings or helping the MP to write speech's. Politicians will usually employ a team of two or three assistants.
Entry Requirements
You will usually need a degree to get into this role, suggested courses include the following:
- Political science
- Business and politics
- Politics and economics
- International studies
- History
- Law
Entry requirements for your degree course can vary but you will usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) including English and maths
- and 2 or 3 A Levels or equivalent
Entry without a degree is unusual but exceptions may be made with excellent admin, IT and secretarial skills.
Career Tips
Gaining work experience through volunteering or internships will be beneficial and will provide you with political knowledge which is essential for this role.
Membership of the relevant political party is often required.
You could get involved in your universities politics society which will demonstrate your interest.
Career Path and Progression
With experience you could take on more responsibility and specialise in a particular area.
You could also be responsible for training other members of staff and managing a team.
Required Skills
- Excellent organisational skills
- The ability to communicate effectively at all levels
- The confidence to deal with senior Politician's
- A highly professional manner
- Integrity and an understanding of the importance of confidentiality
- Tact and diplomacy
- Good IT skills
Salary Range
£15,000 to £38,000
