In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
• Experience working with press in a public relations firm, state legislature, or state agency
• Possess strong organizational skills
• Knowledge of state and local policy issues
• Experience with writing on behalf of or for a principal, executive, leader, or organization
• Ability to work well under pressure
• Ability to exercise the highest degree of initiative and independence of action
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of information
• Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work effectively with all levels of staff
• Ability to master emerging new policy initiatives