- by Jane Halford

As the adrenaline rush of an election campaign concludes, newly elected officials are met with the challenge of serving the public, including undertaking transformative action necessary in today’s complex world. Elected officials face similar leadership transition challenges as any other new organizational leader. Leveraging transition best practices from corporations, non-profits, and public sector entities can increase the speed to impact of newly elected officials.

1. Prioritize Listening Over Speaking

Leadership is about trust and influence. With a new role, start by expanding your knowledge and relationships through listening.

Dedicate your initial period to thoroughly understanding the background on issues and the range of perspectives on each topic.

That includes seeking input from key staff, stakeholders, and the public. This approach builds trust and lays a foundation for effective, informed decision-making. Listening deeply can identify how to transform challenges into opportunities for lasting change.

2. Master the System

Successful navigation of governmental systems requires knowledge beyond what you can study from outside of the role.

Be an active student to quickly understand the processes, protocols, and hierarchical structures within your role.

Proactively seek insight from staff members and identify experienced elected officials who can provide their best advice on how to shorten your learning curve. Leveraging others’ knowledge enables you to anticipate and avoid common pitfalls and increase your ability to be productive within your role.

3. Forge Intentional Relationships

Being an elected official requires the strength of collaboration.

Cultivate the ability to work constructively with diverse individuals, bridging potential divides to enrich the policy and decision-making processes.

Proactively building relationships with colleagues, the public, and various stakeholders will increase your ability to keep informed on topics and understand the potential impacts of future decisions.

4. Communicate Transparently and Consistently

Clear, consistent communication is vital in sustaining trust. Establish a routine for sharing updates through channels your key relationships use, such as media releases, newsletters, and town hall meetings.

Be transparent about your approach to your role.

Consider how you will authentically share your thoughts when celebrating successes and facing challenges.

5. Stay Grounded in Your Core Values

Amidst the whirlwind of responsibilities, focusing steadfastly on your core values provides much-needed stability in a complex world.

Clearly define the principles that guide you. This is important, personal work.

What truly matters to you? Keep these values prominently in focus during calm times and keep them at the forefront of your mind when you face challenges.

6. Guard Your Time

Effectively managing the surge of commitments that comes with leadership is crucial. Everyone wants you – all the time.

Strategically allocate your time for what matters most.

In the intensity of your week, keep time available to connect with team members and colleagues and for your thinking and reflection on topics.  

7. Continuously Engage with Your Constituency

Engagement is a sustained commitment over your term. Cultivate routines that include public forums, community events, and interactive digital platforms to maintain and strengthen connections with those you serve. Intentional engagement builds trust and enriches your understanding of evolving issues and needs.

8. Prepare for Public Scrutiny

Holding public office invariably invites scrutiny. Build your media skills to ensure you can navigate interviews and public appearances aligned with the reputation that you want to have over your term. Seek external advisors initially and throughout time in office.

Keep in mind that there will always be people who oppose you and your ideas.

Identify your support systems, including a coach or trusted professional, to help you navigate those difficult situations. You will not be able to turn to family, friends, and colleagues in many situations. Confidential support may be the key. It is not easy, and you do not have to do this alone.

9. Build and Empower a Strong Team

Your team is pivotal in translating vision into action. Assemble a group whose values and skills align with your responsibilities and approach. Define clear roles, encourage a collaborative environment, and support their professional development

10. Prioritize Your Well-Being

Serving the public means that you also need to keep your energy high.

Find solutions that keep you well.

This may take some experimentation. Ask others with experience how they manage the pressures of the role over the long run. Your public role will last for a portion of your career. Your health, family, and friends are with you for a lifetime.

Final Reflections: Leadership Is a Lifelong Journey

Congratulations - your election marks a pivotal milestone. It is the beginning of your next leadership adventure. Embrace this journey with curiosity, humility, and an enduring passion for continual growth.