Quiz: Should You Run for Public Office?

CareerBuilder.com

Has all the election coverage got you thinking about running for public office? Whether it's the school board, city council or state legislature, campaigning for and holding public office is a transforming experience.

Win or lose, those who have run say the campaign helped them develop skills, build confidence, expand their networks and raise their stature in the community and at work.

Karen Williams was an administrative assistant before running -- and winning -- a seat on her local school council. "The cliche is true; one really does grow in office," Williams says.

"Up until then, I tended to fade into the background and defer to others who had more authority. But on the council we were all equals -- no matter what our day jobs were. I began to think of myself as a leader."