Politicians represent citizens at all levels of government. They serve as legislative representatives and chief executives. They acquire their positions after being elected. They propose and enact laws affecting everyone.
Many politicians are well known such as the American President and Vice President, Senators, and state governors. City mayors are also considered politicians, as well as city council representatives and school board members.
Chief executives are the heads of their respective bodies. They work closely with lawmakers. They plan goals and prepare strategies for meeting them. They prepare budgets and hire department heads. They also propose individuals to work in various government positions. They receive contractor bids for public or infrastructure projects. They also collaborate with other executives to resolve issues. They rely on numerous employees to complete proposed projects. At small cities, they have numerous responsibilities.
Legislators vote on proposed laws for passage. They propose legislation or cast votes for other legislation. When preparing new laws, they collaborate with numerous groups or parties. They vote on budgets and political nominations proposed by the chief executive. Chief executives and legislators frequently participate and attend ceremonial events.
Work schedules vary for politicians. Local councils usually convene monthly while a Senator can spend 60 or more hours a week attending to their duties. State legislators frequently attend to their responsibilities full time when in session, often 2-6 months, and part time during the remainder of the year. Elected city officials are usually employed full time. They have many unpaid responsibilities.
Chief executives and legislative officials not working full time as politicians usually retain their pre-election job.
How do you prepare for this career?
Most political positions have age requirements. They must be American citizens and reside in the district they are campaigning to represent.
Some own companies, teach school, or work as lawyers, but politicians come from a variety of backgrounds. Many volunteer for charity, political, and religious organizations.
Effective public speaking and management skills are vital. Candidates must be able to encourage their staff members and citizens. Politicians should be trustworthy, genuine, and have the ability to compromise with others. Likewise, they must have vitality and be effective fundraisers.
How much will I earn?
Salaries for legislators in the 50th percentile were between $13,530-38,690 annually during 2008. Those with salaries in the lower 10th percentile made $12,190 or less while those in the upper 10th percentile made $75,270 or more annually.
How many jobs are there?
During 2008, 65,000 legislators in all levels of government were employed as politicians. There are 535 elected members of Congress in the United States, as well as a President and Vice President.
What is the future outlook for this career?
Competition during elections varies in each region. Usually, many people seek to get elected to the same positions in big cities and states. In smaller regions, there is less competition during elections. Chief executive and legislative positions should increase in the near future at the local level. Certain cities are considering hiring professional managers or career executives instead of relying on volunteers.
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