For the past 20 years I have been involved in start-ups and the business world. There are certain qualities and must do’s that came natural, and there are others that I have learnt (and am still learning) over the years. I have always believed that there are similarities between the business and the political world, with the main ones being that both revolve around people, and that both are about getting things done.

The European Union is a complex creature, and it is therefore natural that a lot of people do not understand how it works and neither understands its remits and the people behind it. This in turn triggers the ‘us and them’ perception. Furthermore, when things are not so perfect, one easily tends to put the blame on the EU.

Malta’s six MEP team is also viewed as drop in an ocean of 751 MEPs. Like everything else, MEPs come in different shapes and sizes, and throughout my campaign I have made it a point to highlight the importance of one’s attitude in approaching this role and making it a success. Not for himself but for the people that elect him to represent them.

I’m humbly looking at not just landing the job, but at becoming a driver to counteract this perception and be a model of good political governance and rebuild the faith in MEPS. And how will I do this you might ask?

Well, exactly like I approached my projects and start-ups in the past, and surely just like each one of you who wants to get things done and achieve results must do!

1. Be passionate

It’s no secret that I have a passion for Malta being European and a fully fledged member state. One cannot deliver and add value to anything if he/she does not believe in his product, service or organisation. It is true that during our 10-year membership we faced challenges. We still do, and we will continue to face challenges, yet what distinguishes the individual is the way he/she addresses such challenges, with the objective of finding a forward-looking solution.

2. Be hands-on

The biggest benefit of EU membership is the sense of belonging between 500 million citizens. Ironically, this is also the biggest challenge, given that it is hard to make people fully understand and feel the tangible benefits on a personal level. One therefore needs to really speak the language, be close to the people and organisations, get out of the office and roll up your sleeves to face, discuss and network on challenges and issues. Managing by example and working clearly in full sight is how to get things done.

3. Be creative

The art of politics is not just a cliché! It is an art in itself, driven by the generation of good ideas to make things happen, to explore new solutions and to communicate the message clearly. Good ideas create new energy and enthusiasm, yet they have to be focused and shortlisted to then create the necessary end result.

4. Being proactive

It is easy to get into a vicious circle of daily fire-fighting and just responding to work that turns up on your desk. Like in a start-up, one must be pro-active and be the catalyst of making things happen. The element of networking and promoting your business is crucial, especially at start-up stage. In Brussels, this is not only important but vital. As knowledgeable as you may be, this is where emotional intelligence kicks in. The ability to respond, communicate and build a strong network between other MEPs will lead to results and respect.

5. Be aware

In a start-up things hardly go as planned, yet what might be an initial and disappointing change in results could actually be an eye opener and an opportunity to follow. Being aware of your surroundings with an open mind and flexible approach always works in business. As much as it is important to have an entry plan, knowing the various scenario planning, and changes in strategy, is crucial in the quest to respond to constantly evolving surroundings.

All in all, we are heading for an interesting and challenging time in Europe. The European Parliamentary elections also mean that there will be a number of new MEPs who will hopefully also bring new enthusiasm and passion to do things. While in the case of a business start-up one would be reporting to himself and his business partners, the differentiating factor in this venture is that representing Malta in Brussels will be everybody’s business. Should the people honour me with their trust, I plan to work on three dimensions;

Fully aware of the political positions within the Nationalist Party.

Actively in tune with the EPP that we are affiliated with.

And as an individual with my own vision and ideals to contribute to a better and stronger future of my country within Europe

And it is the third dimension which also makes this role a fulfilling and interesting one. I’m not saying it is easy, I’m saying it is possible – and I am ready to place my energy and enthusiasm to make it happen – just like I did with my first and my subsequent start-ups!

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Jonathan Shaw is a PN candidate in the European Parliamentary elections.