Getting a job in politics in D.C. may be difficult, but it’s not impossible. During the panel “How to Get a Job in Politics” at the 40th annual Conservative Political Action Conference, job recruiters and advisors gave advice on how to nab that perfect job within the Beltway.
Moderated by Suhail A. Kahn, a lobbyist for Microsoft, members of the panel included Matt Adkins of the Heritage Foundation; Laura Chambers, Communications Director for Rep. Mick Mulvaney (R-S.C.); and Amos Sneed, a principal at Story Partners and co-founder of FamousDC.
Adkins, who organizes the Heritage Foundation’s job bank, told job seekers to show agreement with their prospective employers’ principles and their experience for the job. “It’s a very purpose-driven, value-driven field,” he said. “Employers want to know you have solid footing in their worldview.
He also advised against being a “jack of all trades,” noting that while it’s ok to be interested in many fields, it is more important for a candidate to show why they’re the right fit for the place when they apply for a job.
“Your résumé is not your life story,” Adkins said. “Make it stand out for the right reasons, because you’re the best candidate, not because of your sense of humor.”
Chambers told job seekers to know their strengths and study all the different fields of politics, like policy or campaigns, before focusing on a specific area. “Think about what matters to you, where you might fit,” she commented.
She also emphasized the importance of personal connections, telling young people to send handwritten notes to those who help in the job search.
Snead echoed Chambers’ advice, saying the first thing you need in Washington is a stack of thank-you cards. One time, Snead’s boss turned to him and said, “I’ll hire the first applicant who sends me a thank you card.”
He also emphasized following up with potential employers and networking to find other potential employers and contacts, as DC is “a town that runs on relationships.”
All three of the panelists did agree on the most important thing, however: “Be sure to stay in touch.”
