How to become A Legislator

Have you ever wondered who is responsible for making sure your house doesn’t get burgled every night? Who ensures that social media remains a secure means of communication? Who insists that the elderly have a right to continue to live the life of their choice? 

The rules that keep us safe and warm within our homes are the handiwork of hours of work and deliberation by Legislators, who navigate complex legal systems to ensure this planet and its inhabitants remain safe and secure.

• Lawmaker
• Elected Law Official

What do Legislators do?

A Legislator would typically need to:

• Draw up bills related to policies, regulations, budgets and programs; submit them for valid approval by legislative peers
• Vote either for or against bills and motions to establish them as laws; study the results and impact of these laws
• Take note of public concerns and attempt to alleviate them; listen to testimonies of affiliated parties of a yet-to-be passed bill
• Keep up to date on the concerns of affected parties using phone calls, emails and letters
• Attend regular governmental meetings to discuss the implementation of new laws 
• Research the necessity of new laws and defend their ability to address relevant public concerns
• Apply for funding to carry out projects and programs
• Interact with legislative peers to resolve differences related to the legislature; meet with important stakeholders such as business owners and lobbying groups
• Participate in panels and study groups debating on special policy issues
• Help in the appointment of professionals into leadership roles

Legislators in higher positions are often required to travel extensively and may need to live away from home when the legislature is in session. Attendance at social functions and meetings is a mandatory addition to their regular job requirements.

Typically, professionals work for 60 or more hours a week and must keep up with stressful schedules. However, part-time work involving fewer hours is a viable option. You may then need to work at an alternate job to pay the bills.

Legislators are elected by their constituents or volunteer to fill the position. 

Legislators are generally employed by:

• Local, State & Central/Federal Government
• House of Representatives/Senate/Congress
• City Council
• Small Communities

Professional associations and organisations, such as the National Council of State Legislatures, are crucial for Legislators interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Workplace discrimination on the grounds of race, gender and social status
• Lack of sufficient budgets and peer support to push important bills through
• Frustration due to passage of bills that may cause universal distress
• Long work hours may prove tiring
• Stressful schedules may make work difficult

Most prospective Legislators amass significant work experience in politics, management, law, business or education.

Active participation in the efficient operation of community boards and commissions, charities, political campaigns or social organisations will work wonders in establishing your legislative ability. Local politics is a good springboard for individuals set on becoming Legislators.

Read about the profession and interview/job shadow experts working in legislation to prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers. 

Aspiring Legislators must have a bachelor’s degree in law, public administration, political science or business. A degree in political science would equip you with skills and knowledge related to government institutions, campaigning, international studies, law, and public policy.

Most applicants also go for a master’s degree in public administration, which typically comprises courses related to general financial management and legal issues in public administration. Many choose to graduate from law school before embarking on this career path.

High schoolers may find it helpful to learn history, social studies and English. Strengthening speaking and writing skills will prove invaluable. 

Gaining professional certification in legislative processes demonstrates a Legislator’s competence in a skill set, typically through work experience, training, and passing an examination. Such courses can help potential Legislators understand how policy becomes legislation, how the legislature is drafted, how to frame laws using clear and straightforward language, how to revise outdated laws and how to recognise/avoid drafting errors. 

Certification from an objective and reputed organisation can help you stand out in a competitive job market and increase your chances of advancement, and allow you to become an independent consultant.

Successful certification programs protect public welfare by incorporating a Code of Ethics.

Usually, Legislators with solid track records and significant experience may be chosen to play the role of Lieutenant Governor or Governor. Your career advancement may also take the shape of nomination or election to the highest legislative body in your region.

Candidates with a master’s degree in public administration and relevant work experience have the best job prospects.

Gaining expertise in diverse areas of government policy and keeping up with current, local, national, and international events are integral facets of a Legislator’s job.

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Legislator build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning. It allows you to upskill continually, regardless of your age, job, or level of knowledge.

How To Become The Chosen One

In many countries, the voting public elects suitable candidates for the role of Legislator. Professionals here need majority votes and campaigns to appeal directly to the masses. 

Local elections may be relatively straightforward, and candidates may run unopposed. However, when it comes to the higher levels of government, you will need vast doses of financial and political clout to make good on your ambitions. 

Public appearances that will help you communicate with and persuade local voters and raise funds for various causes and campaign needs are essential strategies.

Before Legislators came into being, the law was written and enforced by kings and monarchs. 

Alexis de Tocqueville rightly compared the role of a Legislator to the navigator of a ship on the high seas. While they can’t change the conditions of the situation, seasoned and humane Legislators help us weather the increasingly uncertain storms coming the way of this planet. 

Before committing to this career path, you need to weigh the cost of losing significant amounts of money to the election with the likelihood of your gaining majority votes. Polls and conversations with voters will help you figure it out.