PiwowarczykThe behind-the-scenes of political work is often overlooked by the general public – myself included. In a world of mic-drop debate moments and catchy talking points, understanding the work that goes into each press release, media training, and social media post is dire to running a good campaign. One year ago, I began my internship at K2 & Co. Today, I have a newfound passion for political communications, understand the need to help our clients “get to yes,” and celebrate the small victories one at a time.
Over the past year of my internship, I gained new insight for young people looking to enter political communications, or politics in general. Here’s what I have learned, as well as some tips for you:
Anything Can Happen – Be Prepared
In a world of fast-paced news cycles and constant headlining events happening at all times of the day, political communications work isn’t a traditional 9:00 to 5:00. At K2 & Co., we deliver constant communications and help our clients to be prepared in a moment when big news happens. After the October 7th tragedies, which coincided with my first week at K2 & Co., our team was on the ball, helping to support and educate our clients in the post-October 7th environment. It was the same with both assassination attempts on Former President Trump’s life, and President Biden dropping out of the 2024 presidential race.
Working with high-stakes clients requires an on-the-ball work ethic. Keeping up with news cycles every morning and understanding rhetoric around the issues, as well as strategizing the most efficient and effective communication methods. Timeliness is necessary for good client-public relations, and the K2 team works overtime to produce cutting-edge communications for and with their clients.
Start Campaigning Now
A campaign doesn’t have to be political – if you have higher aspirations in any area of your life, it is important to campaign for that future today. When it comes to political work, the communications team at K2 & Co. has mastered uplifting and positioning clients for the highest outcomes. That being said, results can be achieved faster when both clients and team members are already setting themselves up for success.
Maintaining a strong, positive online presence, building a network of connections, and staying up to date with world events are key to running a successful campaign from all sides of the process.
Teamwork Makes The Dream Work
To have a successful communications team, there needs to be heavy communication within the team. Having open communication with supervisors and fellow team members is the first step to providing optimal services for clients.
Interning at K2 & Co. was my first experience in a fast-paced, high-stakes political environment, and the once-in-a-lifetime work opportunities offered also came with high expectations for success that, as a college student, felt overwhelming at times. Working with Preya and Brittany, I learned that asking for help and guidance from your supervisors is the best way to optimize efficiency and success in political communications.
Working with the political communications team at K2 & Co. has introduced me to the intriguing, crucial, and rewarding aspects of the behind-the-scenes political work to get clients and candidates above and beyond. The art of message development and delivery, public image maintenance, and digital presence strategy we provide at K2 & Co. is top of the art, and I have been honored to have been a part of their “get to yes” achievements over the past year.
-Jenna Piwowarczyk, Communications Specialist