George Washington University

Undergraduate School of Business

Presentation on Career Management

Strategy for Public Policy Careers

in Washington, DC

By James Callan

GWU Lecturer of Business Administration

March 27 & 28 2013

Personal overview: background and career

-- Variety of positions – Capitol Hill, Associations, Public Affairs Consulting, Federal Government, Leadership

-- Sought opportunities to learn

-- Not always by choice, but therein lies a lesson to forge your own way

Network of Opportunity

-- intersection of business and government

-- Join groups, organizations enhancing each current and future opportunity

“Be a Sponge”

Expand and participate in networking opportunities on and off campus –- e.g., free think-tank presentations, writing; stay current on public policy, job trends, job sources, and connections

Prepare for the unexpected & be flexible

Sometimes circumstances lead you in on unexpected path, i.e. 9/11

-- Led and managed ag aviators

-- Obtained “Plum Job” (senior Fed’l appt.)

This created speaking opportunities and int’l relations work – both long-time goals

Interviewing and Networking in DC

Increase opportunities through networking, not just letter writing or responding to postings

Go to internship events and career fairs; join networking groups on and off campus

When interviewing, be prepared and show readiness to work

Interviewing and Networking in DC (Cont.) Attract employers in Public Relations, Public Affairs, Associations, on Capitol Hill and in Government by standing out, so they want you Go the extra mile, by showing tangible examples to get the interview: 1) Excel and research expertise 2) analytical capabilities 3) create your own marketing piece

The Job Search – Step One

Apply through multiple sources

Use the internet, but also print ads, trade publications, and job fairs

Personal contact IS key – and, do not hesitate to make a cold call

The Job Search – Step Two

Remember: many jobs are not advertised

Don’t worry about a still recovering economy, but be willing to wear out shoe leather and “Walk the halls” -- Go door-to-door and carry a resume with you –- this works on Capitol Hill, where “just in time” rules; take to the streets Supplement with USAJobs.gov, Indeed.com, BradTraverse.com & GWorkSB.com

Tip 1: FOR FEDERAL AGENCY JOBS

Set-up job alerts with the key U.S. government Web site: USAJobs.gov. In concert, research the new Federal "Pathway programs" designed for recent graduates -- supplement with one-on-one contacts at individual Agency HR Departments

Tip 2: FOR CAPITOL HILL JOBS

Identify and research Members of Congress and Committees; start with your own Member’s office – expand from there. Call congressional conference committees to obtain contact lists – ask about events to meet Members looking for staff. Contact anyone you know in politics to help.

Tip 3: FOR LOBBYING JOBS

View these key periodicals and their Web sites -- Roll Call, The Hill, and Politico -- for job opportunities and set up job alerts; identify on LinkedIn the various lobbying groups/related job portals that you can access and join

Search by issue to see who is taking the lead

Social Media Tips In a Political Town

Use Facebook for your friendships, but be careful what you say or post – negative postings can hurt; political, but not activist

Use LinkedIn for your job search, Twitter for occasional announcements; start a policy blog

Post a photo of yourself in business attire

**In Conclusion**

√ Expand your network in DC √ Develop a range of contacts √ Engage in multiple activities

√ Walk the halls/take to the streets √ Show willingness and readiness to work

√ Watch your social media √ Personal contact is key in DC

Questions?

jamescallan@msn.com ~ 703-577-1978