Building a Career in Public Policy and Social Impact

Introduction

• Speaker: Shutakshi
• Background: Experience with Government of India, Tony Blair Institute, ex-BCG consultant, Harvard exchange
• Channel focus: MBA, management consulting, public policy, personal finance

Structure of the Video

1. Why work in public policy?
2. Hacks and skills needed
3. How to build a network

Why Work in Public Policy?

Personal Motivation

• Greater sense of purpose and happiness
• Better work-life balance and job satisfaction
• Positive impact on others' well-being

MBA Applications

• Top MBAs value public policy experience
• Creating future leaders who challenge the status quo

Hacks and Skills Needed

CV Shortlisting

• Keep CV under one page for less than a decade of experience
• Highlight impactful work experiences
• Proof of concept: internships, volunteer work

Problem-Solving Skills

• Essential for public policy roles
• Policy cases more abstract than private sector cases
• Importance of learning case interviews

Communication Skills

• Dealing with stakeholders (governments, investors, etc.)
• Success pyramid form of communication

Ground-Level Experience

• Willingness to work and understand ground realities

Passion and Proof of Concept

• Show genuine interest in public policy
• Ability to demonstrate empathy and compassion

How to Build a Network

• Global Governance Initiative (GGI) offers a Policy Scholars Program
  • Alternative to Harvard Kennedy School and Columbia SIPA
  • Partnerships with organizations like Samagra, Satwa Consulting, Nudge Foundation
• Program details:
  • 3-6 months upskilling
  • Subjects: economics, public policy, liberal arts
  • Practical problems: agriculture, technology, cryptocurrency legality, etc.

Conclusion

• Encouragement to engage with the content and community
• Invitation to subscribe and share