02 Political Strategist
What is it Like Being a Political Strategist
On this episode of the Unboxing Careers Podcast, we unbox the career of a political strategist.
Guest: Kateryna Odarchenko is a political consultant, partner of the SIC Group, member of the International Association of Political Consultants (IAPC), and president of the Political Institute for Democracy and Development.
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What Is the Role of a Political Strategist?
When most people think about politics, they picture candidates giving speeches, shaking hands, or debating on television. But behind every candidate is a team of strategists who carefully plan what messages to highlight, which communities to reach, and how to build momentum. A political strategist is like the architect of a campaign—they design the structure that helps a candidate connect with voters and win elections.
Kateryna Odarchenko describes the role as being equal parts communicator, manager, and analyst. Strategists work on developing a candidate’s story, researching what voters care about, and figuring out the best way to deliver that story through advertising, door-to-door outreach, or media appearances. While candidates are the “face” of the campaign, strategists are the ones putting the puzzle pieces together.
Here’s what strategists actually do:
Design campaign strategies and voter outreach plans
Craft messages that connect with communities
Blend political science, marketing, and communications into one job
How Do You Become a Political Strategist?
There’s no single path into political strategy, but almost all professionals in this field started by getting involved in politics early. Kateryna herself studied political science, but she emphasizes that experience is just as important as academics. Many strategists begin by volunteering for local campaigns—handing out flyers, making phone calls, or helping organize community events. These small experiences often lead to bigger responsibilities once you prove your dedication.
Some universities, especially in Washington, D.C., offer programs in political management or campaign strategy. However, you don’t need to attend a specialized program to get started. Kateryna notes that curiosity and the willingness to learn from every campaign role are what truly matter. The political world is fast-moving, and those who show they can adapt and keep growing are the ones who move forward.
Ways to get started:
Study political science, communications, or public policy
Volunteer on campaigns in any capacity, big or small
Look into specialized campaign management programs later on
What Is a Day in the Life of a Political Strategist?
A strategist’s day is rarely the same twice. During campaign season, mornings may start with reviewing voter data—seeing which areas need more outreach or which messages are resonating best. Afternoons might be spent coordinating volunteers for phone banking or door-to-door canvassing. Evenings often involve writing speeches, preparing talking points, or helping a candidate get ready for a public appearance.
Entry-level roles often involve fieldwork—knocking on doors, making calls, or managing social media. As you gain more experience, responsibilities shift toward planning, fundraising, and media strategy. Senior strategists often serve as advisors to candidates, helping them prepare for debates, crisis communications, and major campaign decisions. Kateryna emphasizes that the unpredictability is part of the excitement. Some days are spent buried in data, while others are high-energy and people-focused.
What the work looks like day-to-day:
Researching voter data and adjusting outreach
Coordinating volunteers and grassroots efforts
Advising candidates on speeches, debates, and media
Challenges and Rewards of the Profession
Working in politics is not for the faint of heart. Campaigns often demand long hours, with nights and weekends filled with events and strategy sessions. The pressure to perform is intense—after all, elections are about winning or losing, and the results affect not just candidates but entire communities. Kateryna notes that political work can be especially challenging in countries where democracy is still developing, adding layers of risk and responsibility.
But with those challenges come powerful rewards. Helping a candidate win an election—or seeing policies change because of your team’s work—can be incredibly fulfilling. Many strategists describe the feeling as knowing you’ve played a small but real role in shaping history. Even when campaigns lose, the lessons learned often make strategists stronger and better prepared for the next race.
The ups and downs:
Expect long hours and high stress during campaign season
Stakes are especially high in places where democracy is fragile
Victories feel incredibly meaningful and impactful
Tips for Students Interested in Political Strategy
If you’re in high school, there are plenty of ways to get a head start. Joining debate clubs, student government, or Model United Nations helps you build skills in public speaking and persuasion. Volunteering for a local candidate—even if it’s just stuffing envelopes or knocking on doors—gives you firsthand experience with campaign life.
In college, you can take this further by interning in government offices, writing opinion pieces for campus newspapers, or even starting a blog where you analyze political issues. Kateryna encourages young people to treat politics as both a study and a practice. Reading political theory helps, but so does testing out ideas in real-world campaigns. Building a network of mentors and peers is also essential, as opportunities in politics often come from personal connections.
Student-friendly ways to get involved:
High school: debate clubs, student government, Model UN, volunteering
College: internships, political writing, networking events
Build your personal brand by showing your interest in political issues
Interested I Becoming a Political Strategist?
If you’re drawn to politics, communication, and strategy, this career path gives you the chance to influence real change. The journey often starts small—handing out flyers, attending community meetings—but with persistence, those steps lead to opportunities that shape history. Political strategy is about believing in ideas and helping leaders bring them to life. Stay curious, stay engaged, and don’t be afraid to take that first step into the world of campaigns.
Key Political Strategist Career Takeaways:
A political strategist is responsible for organizing and managing election campaigns, as well as handling political communication for various political groups and parties.
To become a political strategist, it is recommended to have a background in political science and pursue additional education or courses in campaign management.
Practical experience, such as volunteering for advocacy campaigns or local political initiatives, is crucial for gaining skills and building a network in the field.
Adaptability is key in the fast-paced world of political campaigning, as trends and tools evolve rapidly.
Work-life balance can be challenging in the campaign season, but there are opportunities for breaks and personal development after elections.
High school students interested in political science can start by taking online courses, engaging in advocacy campaigns, and volunteering for local political offices or organizations.
Building a personal brand through writing articles or starting a blog can also help gain visibility and experience in the field.
Networking is essential in the political strategist profession, and joining professional associations and attending conferences can provide valuable connections.
Being proactive and reaching out to politicians' offices for internships or volunteer opportunities can lead to valuable experience and potential job opportunities.
Staying informed about current political issues and having a deep understanding of specific communities or demographics can be advantageous in political campaigning.
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