How to Become an MP in the UK: Skills and Requirements

If you are a person who likes to speak out in public, can express your opinion and is interested in the political situation in your country and beyond, you should definitely consider becoming a member of parliament (MP).

What Skills Do You Need to Be an MP?

Each Member of Parliament must be a trustworthy person who can express themselves fluently. You will be responsible for representing a group of people, so you must have their full confidence. Below we briefly present the most essential skills and qualifications that an excellent MP should have:

• knowledge of state laws and regulations. Every political function is linked to it. The law changes with the development of society, so every international or national politician must be up-to-date. This applies to you, even if you are interested in how to become a local MP. 

• highly developed communication skills. Sometimes extremely literate and educated people have a problem speaking in public at an appropriate level. A member of parliament should be an eloquent person whose statements reach every listener.

• active listening skills. It is not always enough to speak one’s mind in public. When representing a community, we must first listen to their needs and put ourselves in their shoes.

• analytical thinking and a good understanding of society. You need to analyse how you can present ideas in a workable way while doing as much as possible for the good of the community.

• determination and climax. A good politician must be determined to fulfil all his promises to his constituents. He must not allow the competition to fall on his head and force their arguments on him.

• basic knowledge of new technologies. Contrary to appearances, this can be a beneficial skill. In these times, social media and other websites are very effective mediums that you should use to your advantage.

What Are the Advantages of Working As an MP?

Working in parliament is a great way to pave your way to higher political positions. You can acquire all the necessary skills and gain your first experience working as a representative of small communities.

This is especially important when it comes to working under pressure from others. By taking small steps as an MP you will learn to make your first important decisions. These affect not only your future but also the development of your neighbourhood.

In the beginning, you will probably be an MP’s assistant, which will be much less stressful than working alone. It will be a solid point in your CV and a valuable experience.

It will also be a great opportunity to improve your interpersonal skills because public speaking is something you can really learn. It often turns out that the best speakers are people who have spent many hours developing their speeches than those who have had no problems with public speaking since childhood.

In summary, as you enter the world of politics, you can gain many useful skills and experiences by working in Parliament.

How to Stand as an MP?

You have most of the above skills, you are determined to get a job. So how to become a member of parliament?

Check out the websites of the various political parties for information on the need for specific positions. Do not be afraid to send your CV there, because even without any experience in politics, it may turn out that your personality stands out from the crowd.

However, most people are interested in helping their region. If you have your eye on a particular parliamentarian or party to work within your region, you can easily send your application beyond some recruitment. It is important that you justify such an application with what motivates you to work in parliament. Active participation in volunteering, in the life of your former school or in some other activity for the benefit of local communities will be crucial. Also, show that you know the political beliefs of the MP you want to work for. It will then be clear that you care about this particular position and do not want to just go anywhere.

What Are the Requirements to Become an MP?

In addition to all the skills that may prove useful, a candidate for Parliament must also meet all the legal requirements. You need to be:

• over the age of 18
• British, Commonwealth country or Republic of Ireland citizen
• nominated by at least ten voters of the constituency in which you want to be elected

How much does it cost to stand as an MP? The candidate, together with the documents must pay a deposit of £500. However, if you receive more than 5% of the total votes, this amount will be refunded.

Once you have joined the party and been selected as a candidate, you will receive support in running the campaign. This can be particularly useful in the early days when you have no experience with fundraising campaigns.

Every political position is associated not only with prestige but also with greater recognizability and a lack of privacy. The more famous a politician is, the more people comment on him and analyse his activities on the internet. You need to be aware of this when you enter the world of politics.

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