Chief Strategy Officer Marci Surkes writes about life as a staff member in a minority parliament for The Hill Times.

Canada’s most recent federal election has brought us what many now consider the “new normal”: another minority government — the third in a row. For those of us who work behind the scenes in Parliament, this result isn’t just a political headline; it fundamentally reshapes how we operate, how we negotiate, and how we govern.

Minority Parliaments demand something different, something better, from everyone involved in public life. They require compromise, collaboration and a deep commitment to the common good. That’s not always easy, but it is essential. The message from voters is clear: Canadians want their elected officials and, by extension, their staff to work together to get things done and to focus on results over rhetoric. That means staffers must be ready to reach across the aisle, build consensus and understand perspectives beyond their own.

While pundits dissect voter intentions and parties jockey for influence, staffers on Parliament Hill are entering a new session defined by uncertainty, just like the one before it. If you're stepping into this new Parliament as a staffer, whether for the first time or with hard-earned experience ( and political wounds!), know this: accepting the uncertain nature of your job will not only help you stay grounded, it will help you lead. Below are some thoughts drawn from my own experience, and those of many colleagues, that I hope can guide you as you find your place and purpose in this new political era.

Remind yourself why you’re here: It might have been to serve your home community, to be part of shaping national decisions or to make sure someone with your lived experience had a voice. In the churn of committee meetings and crisis comms, that original purpose can get buried. Dig it up again. Your reason for being here will be your anchor in the unpredictable months ahead.

Not everything will get done, don’t be disappointed: Even with the Supply and Confidence Agreement we saw in the last Parliament, minority governments mean some things will stall, fall apart or just run out of time. Promising bills might die on the order paper. Focus on what’s possible. Be strategic. Work with colleagues in your caucus and even across party lines to advance the causes that matter.

Ottawa is small, be kind: The Hill may seem massive when you're running between West Block and committee meetings on the other side of the precinct, but let’s be real — it’s a small village, and people remember how you treat them. Resist the temptation to treat politics like a zero-sum game. Whether it's your colleague, a stakeholder or a journalist, you WILL see them again in another life (maybe as a minister in the next Parliament or your boss at the association you make your home after your political days are over). Kindness is currency.

And remember the golden rule of any political office: be especially kind to the scheduler. Their work keeps the entire operation moving, and during busy sittings or legislative crunch time, they are your MVP. If you are that person — thank you. You are the unsung hero.

Network authentically: This can’t be understated (see notes above re: Ottawa is small!) Networking is important on the Hill, but don’t treat it like a transaction. The most meaningful connections are built on shared interests and mutual respect. Find a mentor who reflects where you’d like to go, whether they’re still in politics or have moved on. Ask real questions. Offer real interest. Genuine relationships are what sustain long careers in public life.

Build diverse teams: If you’re hiring or in a senior role, be deliberate about creating diverse teams. This means more than checking boxes, it’s about cultivating a workplace where different perspectives are heard and valued. A team that reflects Canada, Canadians and the businesses that grow our economy, will make better policy, ask better questions and spot the blind spots others miss.

Say “no” gracefully: Time is tight in a minority. You’ll need to decline meetings, push back on requests, or redirect attention. Do it with professionalism and empathy. You represent not just your MP or Minister, but the institution itself. Grace under pressure builds trust in democratic institutions — and we need more of that.

Finally: take it all in. Whether you’re pulling a late night on a bill or celebrating a small policy win, it’s so important to pause and remember how rare this experience is. You are participating in one of the most direct forms of public service. Not everyone gets to say that. This work is demanding, but it’s also deeply meaningful. So make the most of it while you can.

Minority Parliaments are fragile, but they’re also full of possibility. They can force us to be better, more collaborative, more focused on the country instead of the party.

The coming months will test you. But if you lead with integrity, empathy and purpose, you’ll not only survive, you’ll shape outcomes that make a real difference in the lives of Canadians.

And really, what more could you ask for?

This op-ed was published in The Hill Times on May 26, 2025.