BECOMING A PUBLIC POLICY ADVOCATE: EDUCATION AND CAREER ROADMAP

Public Policy Advocates communicate with government representatives, officials and legislators on behalf of clients and causes. Public Policy Advocates represent a variety of entities, including individuals, companies, trade and professional associations, foundations, NGOs etc.

Public Policy Advocates may attempt to persuade government officials through direct contact or by organizing grassroots efforts to encourage citizens to communicate with their elected officials about selected topics.

While there is no official education requirement to become a Public Policy Advocate, most people in the profession have advanced degrees in such fields as political science, journalism, law, communications, public relations and economics. Typically employers require related experience. An educational and/or professional background in the area the person is advocating is always a plus.

Successful Public Policy Advocates also possess strong verbal and written communication skills. The ability to be persuasive, charming, or charismatic can be helpful at times, also. Public Policy Advocates also need to be resilient and tenacious as it can sometimes be very challenging to convince people to see things your way, especially if there is another group of people (possibly with their own Public Policy Advocates) trying to convince the same people of the opposite.

Career Path

Step 1: Obtain a Degree in Political Science or Public Relations

Aspiring Public Policy Advocates may consider a degree programme in political science which may include classes that cover public policy advocacy and its role in the political system. Course work may provide instruction on the legislative process, as well as how Public Policy Advocates participate in the creation of rules and regulations.

Success Tip: The Association of Accredited Public Policy Advocates to the European Union (AALEP) offers a Public Policy Advocacy Programme that can greatly improve a new Public Policy Advocate's understanding of the advocacy process. This in-depth programme covers all aspects of the public policy advocacy profession, including necessary background, methods of networking, knowledge of regulations and training in best practices.

Step 2: Participate in Internship

Internships in public policy advocacy may consist of paid or unpaid work for a public affairs consultancy or group requiring advocacy representation. Interns can gain real-world experience, which is required by many employers, while learning how to actively advocate and influence politicians. Exposure to the government network of Public Policy Advocates and politicians provides students with opportunities to make professional contacts that could lead to a career in public policy advocacy once the internship or degree is completed.

Success Tip: Success as a Public Policy Advocate often depends on networking effectively and knowing the right people. Even low-ranking jobs in government organisations at all levels can be very helpful for gaining the professional contacts necessary to become successful in this field.

Step 3: Become a Member of a Professional Association dedicated to Public Policy Advocacy and/or Lobbying

Membership in a professional association can often be an excellent source of employment and job leads.

1. Networking: The number one benefit of a membership in an association is networking. Participation in a national professional association will open you up to additional contacts. Since members of the association are in your field of interest, they may be able to give you advice as well as leads on anticipated openings, tap into the hidden job market.
2. Professional Trends: You will also keep up-to-date on trends in the field of public policy advocacy through guest speakers, local and national conferences. Professional associations conduct research and analyze statistical information that enables professionals to function more efficiently and help to identify critical new directions. Membership in an association will give you a better sense of the hiring trends, qualification requirements, and salary ranges.
3. Attending Conferences: Conferences are effective forums fo the exchange of information and for expanding your contact base.
4. Publications: Directories and journals are an excellent source of prospective job leads. Since the depth of coverage in a field can vary, be sure you are regularly reading more than one publication.
5. Job Listing: Many professional societies offer career services to their members. These services, which are often restricted to "members only", can include posting resumes, employer profiles, and early notice of job openings. The advantage of their job hotline is that you will have access to opportunities in your specialty, versus other sources that have jobs that don't interest you.
6. Mentoring: A main goal and important activity of a typical association is the education and professional development of its members. If you are new to the field, seasoned professionals, can serve as mentors and show you the ropes. You will also learn the professional standards of conduct expected in the field. Through in-house training, specialized workshops or continuing education courses, professional associations can help you stay on the cutting edge in your career field.
7. Building your Résumé: In the future, volunteering to help coordinate the next meeting is a visible way to demonstrate your commitment and abilities to others. Eventually you may want to join committees and take on a leadership role. The more active you are, the more people with whom you will come in contact. By taking on a leadership position, sooner or later you may win an award or publish articles that can be documented on your résumé. In addition, serving on panel discussions or making presentations can also build your résumé and background.
8. Asking Questions: Start with light conversations with other members and then bring up your job search. Remember you are looking to gain further information and add new contacts to your network. Here are some sample questions: Who are the major employers in the field? How can I get more involved in this field? Based on my résumé, in what areas do I need to improve? Do you know someone else I might speak about pursuing a career in this field?

Prospects for a Career as a Public Policy Advocate

Employment of Public Policy Advocates is expected to grow much faster than average for all professions, with an increase of 24% through 2018 . The demand for effective professionals in an increasingly competitive environment will fuel the job growth for Public Policy Advocates . Public Policy Advocates with specialized knowledge and an international background will have a competitive advantage. Job growth will also increase due to the recent appearance of social media in public relations areas. Various organizations are increasing their use of these tools and Public Policy Advocates with experience in this type of communication will be in demand.

Salaries: Salaries of Public Policy Advocates differ greatly on location, education, experience, and type of work they do. The top 10% earn more than € 200,000 per year. Lobbyists offer valuable assistance for individuals and groups that need a strong and persuasive communicator to speak on their behalf. The position offers an excellent annual salary and high projected rate of job growth. It is a great choice for individuals with strong communication and analytical skills that enjoy working in the political field.