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Preparing for a Law Enforcement Job Interview
Preparation for a job interview with a law enforcement agency will help you
present yourself in the best possible manner. Police agencies use various
formats to interview candidates: the traditional oral board consisting of
officers from surrounding jurisdictions and a representative from the personnel
department, the community board consisting of civilian community members and a
member of the employing agency, and the administrative interview consisting of
experienced members of the employing agency. Regardless of the format, the
following guidelines will help you do your best.
- Be selective about how many agencies you apply with. Many candidates
apply with too many agencies and become overwhelmed by the testing
schedules. It may also give the appearance that you are not committed to
any agency.
- Conduct research about the agency you are considering working for.
Review the agency website and brochure, and talk to members of the
agency. You should get an idea about the agency size, structure,
programs, goals, crime statistics, and history. Be familiar with the job
description and know why you want the job.
- Read the local paper, watch the local news, and listen to the local
news radio. Pay attention to community problems including local crime
and social issues.
- Dress in professional attire and minimize jewelry and other
adornments.
- Make sure you bring everything the agency asked you to bring to the
interview. Have your appointment book or calendar with you.
- Arrive at least 10 minutes early. Traffic and parking are really bad
excuses.
- Project confidence and enthusiasm. Shake hands and make eye contact.
- Keep your answers brief and to the point. Ask to have a question
repeated if necessary. Speak formally. Avoid derogatory terms and
language. Always be honest and sincere.
- You may be asked about hypothetical situations. The agency does not
expect you to be familiar with law enforcement procedures but does
expect that you can evaluate a situation and formulate a reasonable
response. Many candidates answer every question by calling for
assistance, notifying communications, or asking their supervisor. There
may be questions where those responses are appropriate but
the question is intended to find out how you would respond or react so
be prepared to give an explanation about what you would do if no other
help is available.
- When you have finished answering a question you may be asked if there
is anything else you want to add. This does not necessarily mean you
should do so.
- Watch for cues indicating the interview is nearing the end
- If you have the opportunity to add something at the end of the
interview be prepared to highlight any qualifications you have that were
not discussed or brought out during the interview.
- Remember, you are being evaluated through all phases of the process.
If you are scheduled for additional phases be sure to always represent
yourself professionally. If you are hired, you will represent the
agency.
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