Each month we take a look at one of the 650 career pathways featured within Indigo. This month, we explore the role of a Politician – a career which couples a passion for current affairs with the desire to make a difference.
Bristol North-West MP Darren Jones shares his insight into a career in politics with this video career profile from the Indigo Careers module.
So what is a Politician?
MPs represent the people in their local constituencies in Parliament, usually as a member of a political party. You will hold ‘surgeries’ in your local constituency and deal with issues raised by local people at local and national level.
In Parliament, you will join committees, attend meetings and take part in debates. You will also vote on new policies or laws.
You may specialise in a particular area and you may hold office in the government or for the opposition.
Hours
Politicians tend to work very long hours when parliament is sitting. From the end of July to the beginning of September parliament breaks so that politicians can spend time in their constituencies.
Location
Your time will be divided between your local constituency and Parliament/Scottish Parliament/Welsh Assembly.
There is a lot of travel involved both at home and overseas.
Type of work
You will hold ‘surgeries’ in your local constituency and deal with issues raised by local people at local and national level.
You will be expected to dress smartly.
Things to consider
Varied work
The work is varied and challenging, and no two days will be the same.
Rewarding
You will get a sense of satisfaction if your party is in power but also frustration when votes are not in your favour.
Well-paid
The Prime Minister currently takes an annual salary of £142,500.
Travel/work abroad
There is a lot of travel involved both at home and overseas.
High-pressured
You will need plenty of stamina to cope with the long hours and high levels of pressure.
You may receive hate mail and personal threats.
Most people have an undergraduate degree and you will need previous experience/passion for the field
Any British or Irish citizen or a citizen of a commonwealth country may stand for election as long as they are 18 years old or over. There are no formal minimum educational requirements, however, commitment to a political party is the most important criterion, although you can also stand for an election as an independent.
Salary progression
The basic salary for an MP in the House of Commons is £74,000. You could earn £134,565 as a cabinet minister. The Prime Minister currently takes an annual salary of £142,500.
Top Tip
Although most MPs represent the local people in their constituencies, they are also involved in the government of their country. You could be offered a post in a ministry, which may lead to appointment as a minister in a particular area. In exceptional circumstances, you could become the leader of your party or even the Prime Minister.
Emma Davies works within the editorial department at Trotman Publishing. Graduating from her Masters degree in 2017, she is familiar with all aspects of the student journey through university. She is passionate about helping students find the right career, and was a member of the SYP’s inaugural committee in the South West.
