Workshop: An introduction to working with ministers
A foundational workshop equipping participants with the context and knowledge to work effectively with ministers.
Civil servants new to working with ministers need to be able to build trust and rapport – and fast. It’s how you help ministers succeed and deliver better outcomes for citizens.
Drawing on extensive research and candid conversations with ministers and senior officials, in this 90- minute workshop we reveal what politicians really value from their civil service teams — and how you can stand out for all the right reasons. You’ll leave with practical insights, sharper judgement, and the confidence to make an immediate impact.
By the end of the course, you will be able to:
Work more effectively with ministers through a greater understanding of their role, context and challenge
Take actions to improve your confidence and competence in working with ministers.
Who should attend
This workshop is aimed at new experienced hires to the civil service, or existing civil servants new to working with ministers. What this workshop will cover
You will:
Explore the ministerial role, and the challenges and demands that ministers face
Discuss what ministers value in their interactions with the civil service
Spend time identifying specific actions you can take to work with ministers more effectively.
What to expect
Expert facilitators: The workshop will be delivered by experienced facilitators, including former civil servants, who blend deep research insight with practical knowledge of how ministers work and what they want from civil servants.
Interactive learning: Using prompts and small group discussions, you’ll learn from your peers and apply your insights to real-world problems.
Immediate takeaways: Leave with clear, actionable steps to improve how you work withj ministers – ready to implement immediately.
How to sign up
This is a closed booking course, which means that government departments book a single, private course and invite a group of civil service learners to join that course. It can be delivered virtually or face-to-face depending upon the needs of the commissioning department.
