For most minor leaguers, the climb to big-league politics is a tough one. Where the Entry-Level Jobs Are Election seasons present numerous opportunities to break into politics by working on a political campaign. Of course, you'll likely have to start by volunteering your time, and job security will be a gamble considering your candidate may not be elected. As in the private sector, many of the most viable opportunities focus on information technology. Many of us who are involved in campaigns don't know how to put up Web sites but look at the Internet as a new dynamic for politics.
Research is another avenue with numerous options.
As Jim Larrew discovered, a research role might not be as dry as one might think. Opposition research can combine the intrigue of a soap opera with the shock and excitement of tabloid television. For the more faint of heart, there's also a need for pollsters, who conduct market research. If you're looking for a slightly slower pace and job security, you may want to consider working for a sitting congressman or senator. However, the opportunities are more competitive and timing is everything.