What kind of skills and experience do councillors need?

Diverse groups tend to make better informed decisions, so it is important that councils not only represent the communities they serve, but also have a wide range of skills and experience. That's where you come in.

The knowledge and experience you have picked up through your personal and professional life are important. While you don't need any special or formal qualifications to be a councillor, having or being able to develop the following skills, knowledge and attributes will help you in your role:

  • communication skills
    These include listening and interpersonal skills, public speaking skills, the ability to accept alternative points of view as well as the ability to negotiate, mediate and resolve conflict
  • problem solving and analytical skills
    This includes being able to get to the bottom of an issue and to think of different ways to resolve it, including advantages and disadvantages of each
  • team working
    Including being able to work with others in meetings and on committees and being able to complete any tasks on time that you agree to do
  • organisational skills
    These include being able to plan and manage your time, keep appointments and meet deadlines
  • ability to engage with your local community
    You may have to make yourself available through meetings, the media, the internet, public forums, debates, on the phone and face to face at regular sessions called surgeries.

You might also have specific skills and knowledge gained from professional experience or from working with other groups. These might be:

  • the needs of specific groups, such as children and young people, disabled people, older people or those with health problems
  • an understanding of financial management and reporting processes
  • legal and regulatory systems or procedures
  • housing, regeneration or environmental issues
  • or related to any of the many services and facilities provided by your local council.

But don't worry if you think you don't yet have some of the skills or confidence to be a councillor. All councils in London have support, information and training available for new councillors.

More guidance and advice is also available from: