__What do I need to do to become a policy advisor? __

The Apolitical community responds:

  • It is an advantage to have formal training in public policy, public administration or related discipline to qualify as a policy advisor in the Ontario Public Service. However, whether you have such a qualification or not, a good strategy is to structure a learning and development plan and use that to work with your manager to secure opportunities and experiences to support moving into the role. Informational interviews with policy managers may open up opportunities as well. — Sybil Ricketts, Senior Policy Advisor

  • Be curious by default. Ask questions, listen to the answers, and try to understand the motivations of people and systems. An inquiring mind is the foundation for all good policy advisors. — Patrick Lindsay, Senior Policy Advisor

  • Ask for informational interviews with policy managers, and ask them the same question you asked here! You will likely get some great advice tailored to your individual education and experience, and it might even lead to a job opportunity. — Anonymous, Senior Policy Advisor

Want to submit more advice on this problem? Click here.

Have a problem of your own at work, and want the Apolitical community’s help? Submit your issue here.

(Picture credit: Unsplash)

Make sure to share your own thoughts with the author by leaving a comment below