How to Get into Politics

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To get into politics, you will need to network, hustle, and get active in your community.

Step 1: Develop skills
Develop a talent for public speaking and develop a sharp memory, especially for names. A career in politics will require you to have a deep knowledge of current events, too.

Tip
Get to know local voters and what they expect from elected officials.

Step 2: Voice opinions
Write letters about pressing issues to the editors of local newspapers to become a familiar name.

Step 3: Get active
Participate in "get out the vote" efforts for major political parties to get into the thick of it. Get active and volunteer to campaign for a candidate.

Tip
Secure a job or internship with an elected official after the election, or volunteer to mail newsletters or answer phones.

Step 4: Attend meetings
Attend local meetings of your city council, school board, and public works or parks commissions and learn about local issues. Brush up on parliamentary procedure, which is essential to know if you're going to be a politician.

Step 5: Monitor voter precincts
Join non-partisan groups to monitor elections. Each precinct has a chairperson -- get elected or appointed as a precinct captain to get front and center in the process.

Step 6: Network at functions
Network at political functions to meet powerful people and advocates for causes. Connect with someone who can mentor your eventual run for office.

Step 7: Assemble a team
Assemble a team from your network of campaign workers who have proven their dedication to you and start planning your campaign. It comes down to who you know, so ask contributors who share your views to help fund your run.

Step 8: Clean up
Clean up any dirty laundry that might compromise an election. Keep in mind that nothing in life will be private once your campaign is announced. Think the implications through before diving in.

Did You Know?
In the presidential election of 1836, the election for vice president was decided in the Senate.