4 answers
jeberiah
Student
Vallejo, California
1
Question
Asked
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I am interested in becoming a police officer
#1: What are the values your company upholds that makes them employers that you want to work for?
#2: What values does a company look for in a person they are hiring?
#3: How do you stay motivated as a police officer day-by-day?
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4 answers
David Deshaies
Police Officer
16
Answers
Sanford, North Carolina
Updated
David’s Answer
1) Honesty, consistency and objectivity are probably the top-3 most important traits for me. If a supervisor lies to me and it's not handled, I would never work there (or be in the process of leaving as soon as possible). Consistency is key: if a discipline issue is handled one way with an employee and then the same issue is handled differently with me, it likely means there are a lot of problems in the agency. Objectivity is very important, as well. Many agencies spend far too long thinking about how things "look" and not how they "are." Factual, logical analysis is very important and applying it to most aspects of operations make working there much easier.
2) Most agencies look for positive character and sound decision making skills over other hiring criteria. For example, most agencies don't care if you experimented with drugs in the past but will not hire someone who stole even $10 worth of products. The theft shows a serious character flaw that is incompatible with law enforcement work.
3) I remind myself, on a daily basis, that I'm doing everything I can to help the victims of crimes I interact with. I care about my job and take pride in it, and I believe if I didn't do it, someone less capable or someone who cares less will answer that 911 call. I do everything I can to ensure a positive outcome; if someone else in the system fails, at least I did everything I could.
2) Most agencies look for positive character and sound decision making skills over other hiring criteria. For example, most agencies don't care if you experimented with drugs in the past but will not hire someone who stole even $10 worth of products. The theft shows a serious character flaw that is incompatible with law enforcement work.
3) I remind myself, on a daily basis, that I'm doing everything I can to help the victims of crimes I interact with. I care about my job and take pride in it, and I believe if I didn't do it, someone less capable or someone who cares less will answer that 911 call. I do everything I can to ensure a positive outcome; if someone else in the system fails, at least I did everything I could.
Kelly Desso
Protective Services
198
Answers
Somers, Connecticut
Updated
Kelly’s Answer
I'm currently employed in the field of protective services, but the idea of shifting towards a career in policing frequently occupies my thoughts.
1. The police department that I dream of joining is a paragon of values that deeply align with my own personal beliefs and ambitions. Integrity is the cornerstone of their operations, with a firm stance that honesty and ethical behavior are non-negotiable. They place great emphasis on serving the community, recognizing that the bedrock of effective policing is the cultivation of trust and cooperation within the communities they protect. The terms diversity and inclusion are not mere buzzwords to them, but essential elements of their organizational ethos, acknowledging that a varied workforce bolsters empathy and enhances problem-solving skills. They champion the spirit of continuous learning and innovation, ensuring their officers are always equipped with the latest knowledge and techniques to tackle evolving challenges. Above all, they hold a sincere dedication to justice and fairness, guiding every interaction, decision, and action by the principles of equality and accountability. These values transform this police department from a mere employer into a shining example of excellence and service, an entity I'm excited to potentially join. With such values in place, operational and labor issues like high turnover, supervision complaints, and stigmas will naturally fade away.
2. This perspective is shaped by my current circumstances, having witnessed everything from rigorous testing to the necessity of proper certifications for success. When hiring, companies are on the lookout for individuals who embody a mix of vital values. Proficient writing skills are indispensable, as effective communication forms the backbone of any thriving business. Punctuality is a testament to reliability and respect for commitments, reflecting a diligent work ethic. Moreover, the readiness and capability to work flexible hours demonstrate adaptability and commitment, qualities highly prized in fast-paced work settings. Overall, companies are in search of candidates who not only have the required skills and qualifications but also display integrity, teamwork, and a proactive approach to overcoming obstacles. In the year 2024, employers often find it challenging to assess these qualities early on in the hiring process.
3. As a security officer (though not a police officer), maintaining daily motivation involves a mixture of commitment, concentration, and a deep-seated passion for preserving safety and order. The unconventional shift hours become more manageable when you value the importance of your role in protecting people and their belongings. Each day brings unique challenges and chances to make a meaningful difference, be it through vigilant patrols, meticulous inspections, or rapid response to incidents. I go to work each day knowing that I'm well-versed in the latest policies and academic research, which empowers me to make the best possible decisions for ensuring safety. By prioritizing professionalism, staying updated on security protocols, and nurturing a team spirit with coworkers, my motivation to uphold security standards remains unwavering. Furthermore, the satisfaction derived from contributing to a secure environment for others ignites a sense of purpose that goes beyond the ticking clock, ensuring my dedication to the job never wavers.
1. The police department that I dream of joining is a paragon of values that deeply align with my own personal beliefs and ambitions. Integrity is the cornerstone of their operations, with a firm stance that honesty and ethical behavior are non-negotiable. They place great emphasis on serving the community, recognizing that the bedrock of effective policing is the cultivation of trust and cooperation within the communities they protect. The terms diversity and inclusion are not mere buzzwords to them, but essential elements of their organizational ethos, acknowledging that a varied workforce bolsters empathy and enhances problem-solving skills. They champion the spirit of continuous learning and innovation, ensuring their officers are always equipped with the latest knowledge and techniques to tackle evolving challenges. Above all, they hold a sincere dedication to justice and fairness, guiding every interaction, decision, and action by the principles of equality and accountability. These values transform this police department from a mere employer into a shining example of excellence and service, an entity I'm excited to potentially join. With such values in place, operational and labor issues like high turnover, supervision complaints, and stigmas will naturally fade away.
2. This perspective is shaped by my current circumstances, having witnessed everything from rigorous testing to the necessity of proper certifications for success. When hiring, companies are on the lookout for individuals who embody a mix of vital values. Proficient writing skills are indispensable, as effective communication forms the backbone of any thriving business. Punctuality is a testament to reliability and respect for commitments, reflecting a diligent work ethic. Moreover, the readiness and capability to work flexible hours demonstrate adaptability and commitment, qualities highly prized in fast-paced work settings. Overall, companies are in search of candidates who not only have the required skills and qualifications but also display integrity, teamwork, and a proactive approach to overcoming obstacles. In the year 2024, employers often find it challenging to assess these qualities early on in the hiring process.
3. As a security officer (though not a police officer), maintaining daily motivation involves a mixture of commitment, concentration, and a deep-seated passion for preserving safety and order. The unconventional shift hours become more manageable when you value the importance of your role in protecting people and their belongings. Each day brings unique challenges and chances to make a meaningful difference, be it through vigilant patrols, meticulous inspections, or rapid response to incidents. I go to work each day knowing that I'm well-versed in the latest policies and academic research, which empowers me to make the best possible decisions for ensuring safety. By prioritizing professionalism, staying updated on security protocols, and nurturing a team spirit with coworkers, my motivation to uphold security standards remains unwavering. Furthermore, the satisfaction derived from contributing to a secure environment for others ignites a sense of purpose that goes beyond the ticking clock, ensuring my dedication to the job never wavers.
Mark Francis Ayoob
30+ years in law enforcement and military service roles
9
Answers
Texas, Texas
Updated
Mark Francis’s Answer
Hi Jeberiah. I’ll take a shot at answering your questions...
#1: What are the values your company upholds that makes them employers that you want to work for? Generally speaking, law enforcement entities (departments, agencies, units, etc) have their organization’s values documented within their own internal reference manuals and the such that are generally provided, say, in those agencies’ educational pipelines, say, at an academy, for the new employee to study and live by.
#2: What values does a company look for in a person they are hiring? Generally speaking, a law enforcement entity can determine during the recruitment and background investigation phases if an applicant for that law enforcement entity has been living a life in line with that law enforcement entity’s values.
#3: How do you stay motivated as a police officer day-by-day? Great question! As law enforcement officials, we have to develop an art that helps us filter out the negative noise (on social media for example) so that we can focus on what is important, what we swore to do; to serve and protect our fellow man. It’s that simple. Difficult sometimes, but it comes down to that. Hey, if being a cop was easy, everyone would be doing it. But they aren’t, so…
Jeberiah, I wish you all the best in your endeavors. I hope what I wrote was useful to you. Be safe.
Sincerely, Mark
#1: What are the values your company upholds that makes them employers that you want to work for? Generally speaking, law enforcement entities (departments, agencies, units, etc) have their organization’s values documented within their own internal reference manuals and the such that are generally provided, say, in those agencies’ educational pipelines, say, at an academy, for the new employee to study and live by.
#2: What values does a company look for in a person they are hiring? Generally speaking, a law enforcement entity can determine during the recruitment and background investigation phases if an applicant for that law enforcement entity has been living a life in line with that law enforcement entity’s values.
#3: How do you stay motivated as a police officer day-by-day? Great question! As law enforcement officials, we have to develop an art that helps us filter out the negative noise (on social media for example) so that we can focus on what is important, what we swore to do; to serve and protect our fellow man. It’s that simple. Difficult sometimes, but it comes down to that. Hey, if being a cop was easy, everyone would be doing it. But they aren’t, so…
Jeberiah, I wish you all the best in your endeavors. I hope what I wrote was useful to you. Be safe.
Sincerely, Mark
Racheal Noble, Ph.D., LMFT, LPC, NCC
Mental health, education, research, care coordinator
91
Answers
Oakland Park, Florida
Updated
Racheal’s Answer
Hello,
If it's possible, you can go to your local police station and ask to go on a shadow trip with them to see what a "day in life" would be like. Note, they day uou go shadowing will not be the same as when you start, there are variations.
With shadowing, you can learn more about what steps to take for applying, training and expectations during your first 3-5yrs.
Be confident and know that you have to develop relationships, understand the community you work in and use great judgement. You main priority is the ability to go home every day safely.
Hope this helps get you started.
If it's possible, you can go to your local police station and ask to go on a shadow trip with them to see what a "day in life" would be like. Note, they day uou go shadowing will not be the same as when you start, there are variations.
With shadowing, you can learn more about what steps to take for applying, training and expectations during your first 3-5yrs.
Be confident and know that you have to develop relationships, understand the community you work in and use great judgement. You main priority is the ability to go home every day safely.
Hope this helps get you started.