Lobbyist

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Work Tasks

• Try to get politicians to support their views on a subject
• Find out about new rules which may affect the group they represent; write reports for government officials
• Find people who have the same interests and ask them to contact lawmakers to give their support
• Plan news releases to inform the public; speak at hearings
• Most work in Washington D.C. for various groups like business, industry, labor, farming, nonprofit/public interest, education and church, or themselves
• Work with news releases, information pamphlets, and reports

Salary, Size & Growth

• $56,500 average per year ($27.25 per hour)
• A large occupation (225,600 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow rapidly (2.4% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: A 4-year degree in communications, public relations, political science, or government
• Employers Prefer: A master's or Ph.D. and experience in the area they represent
• Skills/Courses: College courses include communications, public relations, public affairs, history, English, economics, international affairs, political science, and government.
• Certification/Licensing: Registration is required.