Essential skills for public servants during the 2024 elections

In 2024, more than half the world’s population will vote. The Economist has called it the biggest election year in history, with India, Brazil, Pakistan, Indonesia, South Africa, Britain, the United States and the European Union, to name just a few, all sending their citizens to the ballot box. The lead-up to every election can be overwhelming, as there is an excess of information coupled with a lot of uncertainty. But it is the aftermath that is, perhaps, the hardest, as with each new government comes significant policy change and, in turn, an immediate shift in priorities.

Election years are challenging for everyone — they are, stated simply, often uncertain, anxiety-inducing and busy times. But, for public servants, they are also marked by heightened scrutiny, stress and rapid change. There are new layers of complexity to public sector roles during an election year. Certain activities are inevitably restricted, whereas skills like change management and communication become especially important.

💬 What advice do you have for public servants during an election year? Let us know by leaving a comment below!

To help public servants prepare, Apolitical recently hosted an online event on Must-Have Skills for Public Servants in Election Years. Suki Capobianco, Camila Crescimbeni and Max Stier shared tips and guidance on how public servants can continue serving the public effectively, even amidst the chaos of a political transition. We’ve taken what they said and turned it into a short, Q&A-style article which distils key insights from the event in a digestible format. You can read it back as many times as you want and share it with any colleagues who might find it helpful.

If you prefer to learn through a short and snappy video, check out the highlight reel from the event at the end of the article.

Q: What is one unexpected skill invaluable during an election year?

Data visualisation is crucial because a good visual can communicate volumes. Additionally, knowing where to turn when things get tough is essential for recharging. Building a support network or a “lifeline” is also essential, as it provides a community for collective problem-solving.

Q: What foundational skills should public servants prioritise during election years?

Communication skills, particularly emotional intelligence, are vital for maintaining open lines with the public, who also feel the stress of elections. Election periods can be times of both risk and opportunity. It's important for career civil servants to step up and show their value, ensuring clear communication about the work being done and guiding junior public servants through the challenges coming their way.

Q: How can public servants actively develop their communication skills, not just during election time but day-to-day?

Talking to everyday people regularly is vital. Combining data with intuition and emotional intelligence helps understand the underlying reasons behind people's reactions. Effective communication involves understanding the socio-cultural context and responding appropriately, whether it's rational or emotional.

Q: How can public servants ensure their personal and professional ethics align with decision-making processes during election years?

Having a clear set of principles that guide ethical behaviour is essential. Understand your own "North Star" and apply it consistently. But remember: ethical behaviour should remain constant, irrespective of election periods. You can avoid feeling isolated by consistently engaging with other public servants dealing with the same set of challenges — you can join an Apolitical Community of practice, for example.

Q: How can public servants leverage their skills to drive positive change and navigate policy shifts in the first few days of a new administration?

Career civil servants should see election periods as opportunities to differentiate their work from political discourse. Their continuity and expertise are crucial. They should educate, guide and influence new political teams, emphasising their role in the effective execution of policies. New administrations often bring people who are unfamiliar with the workings of government. Providing detailed information and support is key to helping them understand the processes. It might be a good time to invest in harnessing your skills in writing an effective briefing note, for example. Emotional intelligence and communication skills are vital in facilitating this transition.

Q: How can public servants remain apolitical during the electoral period?

Focus on delivering services and policies rather than engaging in political narratives. Use data to communicate the impact of your work, maintaining a technical and non-partisan approach even when under scrutiny.

Q: What are the most important things a leader should do to steer their team through an uncertain year?

Enable your team rather than trying to do everything yourself. Over-communicate, ensuring two-way communication to get feedback and provide support. Promote self-care to maintain long-term effectiveness. Building trust takes time. Be humble and empathetic. Understand the personal and professional backgrounds of your team members. Motivate them by aligning their strengths with your objectives.

Q: What are the top 5 pieces of advice for a public servant in an election year?

1. Work on yourself as a leader.

2. Balance idealism with patience and remain open to learning.

3. Prioritise mental well-being and self-care.

4. Use technology and data to communicate effectively and remain efficient.

5. Remember why you are there. Focus on your purpose and the public good.

Want to keep developing your election-year skills? Be sure to claim a place at our upcoming event on Guarding Democracy in the Age of AI.

This is a 6 minute highlight from the event on must-have skills for public servants in an election year, but you can view the full recording of the event here.

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