Things You'll Need:
- Time and Commitment
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Step 1
Identify your goal. If you wish to achieve anything, it is important to have a clear goal. Within a political party, it is often even more difficult to remain committed to your goal. There will be strong temptations to join the crowd. Ensure your goal remains realistic, meaningful, measurable and in terms of outcomes rather than in terms of titles.
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Step 2
Identify what aligns. Within most political parties, there are a range of rules. Some are published and cover all range of matters from
pre-conditions for election to meeting procedure. They seem tiresome and useless. However, they are often the key to significant advantage.
By knowing these rules and how to use them, you will have valuable knowledge. The more difficult task is to find out what are the unwritten rules. These will definitely exist and you need to abide by them! -
Step 3
Groups. Groups or factions exist in all political parties and your attitude to them will determine the nature and extent of your success. If your goal is to impact government policy through being in an elected office, it will be advantageous to join the faction which is most likely to advance your cause. In most cases, it is best to be with the dominant group. However, being a "stand-out" in a smaller group is often more effective. If you are less prepared to compromise, remaining outside of the faction groups will make your more noticed. This is a significant advantage if you can still show political understanding and the ability to influence.
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Step 4
Skills and Network. Build your skills, especially in communication, as the key to influence. Using your improving skills to build a group
of associates who trust you. Practice your skills on your close group and then seek roles and positions that will challenge you and give you
the opportunity to raise your profile. -
Step 5
Remain committed. There will be many disppointments so focus on the achievements - even if they seem small.
