If you want to become an alderman, you need to become an expert in public policy and be an attentive listener to your constituents' needs. You also must familiarize yourself with the various duties that help get laws passed in a community. It is equally important to understand how to run for this office, because it is an elected position and not an appointed one. There are several things you should learn before attempting to run for office, including a strong understanding of political science and local laws is a must in order to be successful in this role. You also must be sure of the requirements for becoming a politician, which is to be at least of voting age and live within the district over which they preside.