Transferring your skills as a community leader to the role of elected representative

The primary role of a local councillor is to set the strategic direction for the community. To succeed in civic office, you must possess the ability to see beyond immediate challenges and envision the larger trajectory of your community's future. Not just your patch of the woods either - you need to see the big picture for the whole local government area. You will need to develop strategies that look beyond short-term issues and ensure the long-term growth and prosperity of your community. 

If you become a councillor, you will not know everything you need to know on day one. You won't necessarily be the "expert" but you will be expected to make informed and considered decisions, often on complex and controversial issues. In this environment, curiosity is a must have skill and mindset. This includes the ability to ask good questions and knowing how to find information. 

Competence is the foundation of effective leadership in any sphere and it should not be underrated when it comes to civic office. Knowing what you are doing builds trust and confidence in your decisions. This skill is linked to curiosity as many local councillors learn on the job and by watching others in action. And whilst that’s not a bad way to go as we mostly learn from experience, flying by the seat of your pants can be a bumpy ride.

Maintaining ethical standards and transparency is non-negotiable for community leaders who have aspirations of political office. Integrity is doing what you say you will and acting in a way that is aligned with your own values. It ensures that decisions are made for the greater good and are devoid of personal biases or hidden agendas. This ultimately builds trust between councils and the community.

Enthusiasm is contagious and motivates others to engage and be part of change. A passionate leader who exudes positive energy will create an environment where others are excited to contribute and participate in projects that shape the community's future. This is a super power skill in civic office as it can be the basis of positive relationships with other councillors, council staff and community members. Word of warning - all enthusiasm and no action, can have the opposite effect!

Much has been written about the skill of empathy and how it is an essential trait for any modern leader. To be an effective councillor, you need the ability to understand and relate to the concerns of diverse individuals within the community. This helps in making balanced decisions that cater to a broad range of needs and perspectives. Try out this empathy quiz at Empathy First to see how you stack up.

Effective leaders (political or otherwise) possess self-awareness and recognise their own biases, strengths, and weaknesses. This introspection allows them to make well-informed decisions and avoid making choices based on personal preferences or acting in ways that are contrary to their own values. Knowing your leadership blindspots, also means you can turn any gaps into strengths. If you want to build your self-awareness, try out our free political skills reflection tool.

Being a councillor often involves making tough decisions that may not be universally popular. Courageous leaders tackle controversial issues head-on, even when faced with resistance or the threat of pushback. They provide the community with a steady guiding hand, especially in times of uncertainty.

Confidence in your own abilities and the abilities of others is essential. A confident leader empowers people they work with and community members to collaborate effectively, driving outcomes for the community. But beware - confidence shouldn't be confused with competence! These are different and impactful elected leaders need both. Think Again by organisational psychologist Adam Grant has some excellent insights on this point and recommends aiming for "confident humility".

Whilst you might get elected as an individual councillor, successful councillors understand the value of collaboration and teamwork and know that they can only make decisions and drive outcomes as part of the elected council. They foster an environment of inclusivity, where diverse voices are heard and valued. And they reach out over the political divide to understand differing views.