Getting a head start

The 'old boys network' is not necessarily the best way into a career in politics, writes Charlene Kirrane

It is commonly perceived that a career in politics is often the result of good contacts rather than skills and experience. However, a recent survey conducted by electus start, a political graduate careers service, has found this perception to be out-dated with employers now favouring political experience over the ‘old boys network’. Although all of the people surveyed believed that beginning a career in politics is difficult, it is certainly achievable.

Employers are now demanding industry experience during the recruitment process, for many of their graduate and entry-level positions. Graduate Kasia Kurowska applied for work experience with a political party during the 2005 General Election, which resulted in her gaining enough experience to give her an upper hand during her interviews with her current employer.

Not only did Kasia begin her career as a Policy Advisor shortly after graduation, she was also able to gain employment with an organisation involved in politics and directly related to her degree. Kasia believes that the practical experience she gained through electus start placed her “above people with PhD’s in the interview process” as it complimented her academic ability. One out of every ten electus start subscribers has got a job through the website, suggesting that gaining work experience is fast becoming a requirement rather than an advantage.

Throughout the last few years critics have argued that young people are no longer interested in political affairs. Although the poll supported the view that young people were disengaged with local politics, it found that many students are engaged with national issues. One solution to encourage young peoples interest in politics is to reduce the voting age from 18 to 16 years old. Since 2005, support of this legislation change has seen an 18% increase. The poll also revealed that all of the participants regarded their interest in government as a future occupation. In fact, 70% of students surveyed would consider standing for Parliament, suggesting that becoming a politician remains a popular career aspiration.

Charlene Kirrane is head of Electus Start.