Policy Communications: Winning at Your First 5 Years in Brussels - Key Takeaways from the LinkedIn LIVE Podcast

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On Friday, February 28th, a LinkedIn LIVE video podcast took place, featuring an insightful conversation between Habib Msallem and Alexia J. Cosmello Guisande. Filmed in front of a live audience of policy communicators at the Bump Policy Experience Space on Place Lux, the podcast shed light on what it's really like to navigate the world of policy communications in Brussels, especially in those crucial first five years. If you missed the episode, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with some key takeaways!

1. Tabs Are Not the Enemy

A funny moment in the podcast revolved around Alexia’s perspective on “tabs.” No, not at the bar – we're talking about browser tabs! In Brussels, being a "tab opener" doesn’t mean you’re disorganised. On the contrary, it means you’re open to learning new things and taking on new ideas. Alexia encourages policy professionals to embrace a bit of chaos at times because new opportunities are often hiding in those tabs. Don’t be afraid to stay open to fresh ideas — there’s always something valuable to discover!

2. Strategic Thinking Is Key

Planning ahead while remaining flexible is the name of the game in Brussels. Alexia emphasises the importance of strategic thinking in policy communications. It’s about being prepared to connect the dots and spotting the right opportunities when they arise. By having a clear objective, you’ll be in a better position to take advantage of these moments and drive progress within your organization or policy team.

3. People Skills Are Real Skills

As Alexia said, and we couldn’t agree more, people skills are incredibly valuable, and yet often overlooked. In a city as politically charged as Brussels, it’s easy to get caught up in the technicalities of policy. But the real magic happens when you master the art of conversation. Relationships and connections drive meaningful progress. Having the ability to navigate interactions and conversations with all kinds of people can open doors to new opportunities, provide valuable insights, and accelerate your career in the policy comms world.

4. Don’t Be Basic – Influence, Don’t Just Make Policy

It’s easy to get stuck in the weeds of policy-making, but Alexia’s advice is clear: it’s not just about policy; it’s about influencing opinions and making decisions that really matter. In Brussels, sometimes it’s easy to forget about the people that policies are meant to serve. By focusing on engaging the public and building consensus, you can ensure that your policy work resonates with the people who will be impacted by it.

5. Creativity Counts

Innovation isn’t just reserved for tech startups — Brussels needs creativity, too! Alexia encourages policy communicators to think outside the box and approach problems from new angles. There’s plenty of room for fresh ideas in the policy space, especially if you’re willing to break the mould. Don’t be afraid to push boundaries and experiment with new methods. Your unique approach can lead to exciting projects and positive change.

6. Don’t Let Your Manager Cut Your Wings

If you’ve ever felt like your ideas were too “crazy” to share, Alexia has a message for you: don’t hold back! Even the wildest ideas can lead to impactful projects when nurtured in the right environment. Open communication, time for creativity, and a manager who supports bold ideas can lead to remarkable results. It’s time to shake off that imposter syndrome and let your ideas soar. Speak up — you never know where it might take you.

Wrapping It Up

Alexia’s conversation with Habib Msallem is a great reminder that being a successful policy communicator in Brussels isn’t just about knowing the policy – it’s about being adaptable, strategic, and, most importantly, human. Embrace creativity, build strong relationships, and stay open to new opportunities. As Alexia says, the possibilities are endless when you combine passion with the right skills.

So, whether you're just starting out or already deep in your policy comms career, take these insights to heart. If you have an idea you’d like to bring to life or want to chat more about the fascinating world of policy communications, let’s connect! Together, we can create something extraordinary.