Politics Analysts research and analyse governments, political thought, policies, political trends and foreign relations Source: Bluediamondgallery
Current events all across the globe are more interconnected than ever. With the push of a button or a quick glance at your smartphone, you can instantly find out which political party is doing what around the world. Domestic and international politics offers opportunities to influence the world by improving systems and different causes such as health care, policies, and environmental issues.
What does a political analyst do?
Political analysts study and research minutely on how the political systems of different countries emerge, develop, and function. They research and analyse governments, political thought, policies, political trends and foreign relations. End-to-end analysis of national, international, and social issues to support policy makers also forms a part of their core work process. People in this profession also examine the motives, beliefs, culture, decision-making and values behind each action and how they affect the national security of a particular nation.
Political analysts are expected to utilise their critical thinking and researching skills to evaluate policies and laws and thereafter foster arguments for or against their implementation. They assess the effectiveness of existing policies, including their impact on governments, organisations and citizens of the country.
Why build a career as a political analyst?
Interested in getting involved in politics, but don't want to be a politician? Are you someone who would like to take on a role that gives you the opportunity to analyse political parties and their actions and, if necessary, criticise them?
If you find yourself passionate about politics, like to analyse data, especially on topics like polls and election results, and if you think you have a sound understanding of how people perceive politics and respond to it, you could be an ideal candidate to have a successful career in the field of politics. As an analyst, you can have a chance to work closely with politicians and thereafter organise campaigns on different topics of public interest. Read on to find out how to become a political analyst.
The 3 Step formula to Become a Political Analyst
Step 1: Get a bachelor's degree
Working in politics, especially behind the scenes, requires deep knowledge backed by a strong foundation. In fact, the more knowledge you have, the better equipped you would be to work as a political analyst. A bachelor’s degree is the best place to start with this. Here are a few course areas to consider:
These and related fields give you a wider exposure to the areas that political analysts work with on a daily basis. In addition to the same, gaining minute global insight can also guide your career in the field.
Step 2: Get work experience
Gaining experience by working with focus groups, arranging data, and conducting end to end research is another critical exercise to building the practical experience needed for many political analyst jobs. One of the best ways of gaining this type of work experience is by working on political campaigns at the entry-level, as an intern or as a journalist. A LAMP fellowship is one such unique way to engage with experts from various think-tanks. Apart from that, an entry level exposure can also be gained by working on campaigns initiated by your area’s counsellor.
Step 3: Select Specific Fields
Openings for political analysts are available at both public and private institutions. Political parties and several other sectors of local, state and central government are all looking for experienced analysts to research and talk over the implications of potential policy actions. Private companies and industries, on the other hand, also look to hiring political analysts, as do Healthcare companies investing in health policies, or technology companies investing in trade, employment, or education policies.
Courses to study to become a political analyst:
Top 5 Colleges in India to pursue the courses:
Political analysts usually do end to end minute research on various topics and angles of politics. They use their knowledge and analysis of current events to address the challenges and opportunities faced by organisations and governments. Their expertise in current affairs and policies along with their influence on the social and economic status of the population is crucial in shaping international relations and domestic politics. If the development of political systems and its impact on government policies are something that interests you, you should take up this course now.