NSIM

Stories you may like

• Community Arts Workers

• Public affairs consultants

• Political Party Agents

• Education Administrator

• Classroom Assistants

Public affairs consultants provide clients with political and public policy advice that has been gained via personal contacts, political intelligence and from a wide range of media sources.

Typical responsibilities of the job include:

• designing, writing and producing press releases, articles, leaflets, newsletters and reports

• organising meetings

• attending events such as party conferences and select committee hearings

• analysing information sources produced by the European Commission, government departments, Hansard, non-government organisations (NGOs) and think tanks

• providing clients with information about developments in their field

• responding to information requests

• offering strategic advice to clients

• communicating with relevant official bodies

• liaising with civil servants, politicians, regulatory body and local authority staff

Qualifications and training required

There are routes into public affairs consultancy for both university graduates and school leavers.

Although any discipline is acceptable, a degree in public relations, politics, government, public administration, social policy, business studies, management, languages or law might be particularly beneficial. Many entrants also hold postgraduate qualifications in politics, public relations or government.

Relevant work experience prior to entry is essential.

Key skills for lobbyists

• Good research skills

• Analytical skills

• Interpersonal skills

• Communication skills

• IT skills

• Initiative

• Diplomacy

• Discretion

• Enthusiasm

Typical employers of lobbyists

• Independent consultancies

• Large public relations firms

• Communications companies

• Small specialist consultancies