Public Office Profile Suite
Have you ever been curious about what elected offices might be available in your town, region, or state? This page highlights four different positions, what they are, the requirements to run, and some helpful skills to have.
For a comprehensive guide on those positions as well as four additional ones, including background, education, and average salaries, download the full Public Office Profile Suite guide.
City Councilwoman
A City Council is a legislative body that governs a city, town, municipality, or local government area. They represent the interests of their communities and pass laws related to those interests.
Requirements to Run
To run for City Council, in most states, you will need to be at least 18 or 21 years of age, registered to vote in your community, and be a resident for at least one year. Many City Councils require you to also not have been convicted of treason or felony and lost the right to vote.
“I realized that it’s far easier to replace elected officials than to convince them. Local office provided a space for me to work on the issues that I cared about and could make a direct and immediate impact.”
Rosemary Ketchum, Wheeling City Council
Helpful Skills to Have
City Council Members come from all walks of life and there is no one path to this elected office. However, some general skills that could be helpful to have as a City Council Member include:
- Communication and listening skills
- Ability to be adaptable and flexible
- Time management skills
- Ability to lead and collaborate with others
For more details about the office of City Councilwoman, download the full Public Office Profile Suite guide.
State Legislator
Every state across the country has a state legislature. With the exception of Nebraska, which is a unicameral legislature, every state legislature is composed of two chambers: the House of Representatives (also sometimes referred to as the Assembly or House of Delegates) and the Senate. State legislators are either elected or appointed to represent an area or district of the state for a term defined by a state constitution. State legislators are either in office for two or four years.
Requirements to Run
The requirements to run for state legislator vary from state to state but generally, you will need to be at least 18 or 21 years of age, be a permanent resident of the district you are running in for at least a year, and be a registered voter.
“I decided on this office because I believe the ability to make state policy that improves the lives our one state will eventually lead to a shift in policymaking on the federal level.”
Marie Pinkney, Delaware State Senator
Helpful Skills to Have
State Representatives and Senators come from all walks of life and there is no one path to this elected office. However, some general skills that could be helpful to have as a State Legislator include:
- Communication and listening skills
- Ability to collaborate and work with others, especially those of opposing views
- Ability to articulate a vision and action steps to get there
- Ability to organize and prioritize work
For more details about the office of State Legislator, download the full Public Office Profile Suite guide.
Mayor
A Mayor is considered the Chief Executive Officer or CEO of a town, city, or municipality. The Mayor is directly elected by the citizens of the community or they may be appointed by the City Council. Mayors are responsible for the general management of the City and for seeing that all laws and ordinances are enforced.
Requirements to Run
In most communities, you are required to be at least 18 or 21 years of age, be a registered voter, and have lived in the community for at least one year. In some cities like Baltimore, Maryland, you may be required to be at least 25 years of age or older.
“The best part is the people – as a public servant knowing that you can effectuate changes that benefit and plan for your communities future. In particular, I love working with youth and those also seeking positivity in change.”
Lily Mei, Mayor of Freemont, CA
Helpful Skills to Have
Mayors come from all walks of life and there is no one path to this elected office. However, some general skills that could be helpful to have as a Mayor include:
- Communication and listening skills
- Problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Emotional intelligence and resilience
- Ability to lead a team with integrity
For more details about the office of Mayor, download the full Public Office Profile Suite guide.
School Board Member
School Boards are the governing body of a school district and are responsible for the education of young people in a community. School Board members are either elected or appointed and will advocate for the needs and desires of the district. They meet regularly to discuss and decide on issues that affect the local schools in the community.
Requirements to Run
In most districts, you will need to be a registered voter, resident of the district for at least one year, have at least a high school diploma or certificate of high school equivalency, not have been convicted of a felony, and not be a current employee of the district and/or be related to a current employee in that district.
“You really get to meet the most amazing people — there are so many individuals within a community who are working tirelessly to make life better for students, parents, and educators, and I am forever inspired and moved by their dedication to our community.”
Jilly Gokalgandhi, Milwaukee School Board
Helpful Skills to Have
School Board members come from all walks of life and there is no one path to this elected office. However, some general skills that could be helpful to have as a School Board member include:
- Communication and listening skills
- Ability to be adaptable and flexible
- Time management skills
- Leadership skills
- Willingness to learn and be curious
For more details about the office of School Board Member, download the full Public Office Profile Suite guide.
If you’d like to know more about the roles listed here as well as Judge, County Commissioner, Governor, and US Representative, download the full Public Office Profile Suite guide.