How to Nail a Police Officer Interview
Getting selected for an interview or oral board for a police officer position is in itself an accomplishment, as it requires passing a series of written and physical fitness tests. The interview, usually conducted by a panel of seasoned police officers, is geared to assess a candidate's character, personality, situational judgement and overall suitability for police work. As the oral board is often the key determiner in hiring decisions in most police departments, it can also be the most stressful and anticipated stage of the hiring process. With the proper preparation, however, you can increase your chances of passing the oral board and landing a coveted police academy spot.
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Instructions
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Prepare for the interview immediately after being scheduled for one. You can prepare by thoroughly researching your prospective police department's website or requesting an opportunity to ride along with a police officer. Also, know clearly how to answer core questions regarding personal motivation, skills, strengths and weaknesses, as well as short-term and long-term goals. Be sure to gather any documentation requested by the interviewer. Prepare insightful questions to ask the interviewers as well.
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Dress appropriately for the interview to present a professional image. Most police departments request business attire, such as a dark suit and tie for men and dark skirted suit or pantsuit with conservative jewelry and makeup for women. Clothing should be drycleaned and pressed. Shoes should be polished or shined. Proper grooming and hygiene are also essential.
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Arrive at the interview site atleast 20 minutes early to relax and compose yourself. When called in for your interview, stand up straight and walk with an erect posture. Smile appropriately and make eye contact as you greet each member of the interview panel. Introduce yourself and exchange names and firm handshakes with each interviewer. Be sure to remember each interviewer's name. Sit down when directed. Maintain good posture by sitting up straight with your shoulders back and your hands resting on your lap.
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Answer each question as thoroughly and accurately as possible. Questions asked during a police oral board usually cover topics such as personal motivation, decisiveness, communication skills, leadership, good character and enthusiasm. Speak in a confident, but enthusiastic tone that conveys a positive image in terms of your future as a police officer. Also, ask the interviewers career-related questions when given the opportunity.
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Thank each of the interviewers by name at the end of the interview. Smile, maintain good eye contact and give firm handshakes. Maintain good, confident posture by standing up straight with your head held high when exiting the interview room.
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Tips & Warnings
It helps to print out home pages and background information on your prospective police department found on the web. Highlight with a marker certain facts or department objectives which relate to your goals and interests. Mention these facts and objectives while explaining your position and asking questions during the interview.
Maintain a moderate emotional tone when asked how you would deal with certain sensitive issues inherent in police work, such as making arrests or resolving domestic disputes. Remain impartial, objective and unbiased when expressing your thoughts and opinions to the interview panel.
Never exaggerate or misrepresent your education, skillset or experience during a police officer oral board. Any discrepencies that may surface during a pre-employment background investigation may disqualify you for lack of candor.
As some police departments require candidates to undergo a polygraph exam, be sure the information given during the interview accurately reflects information displayed in your application package. At this time, you would also need to disclose any legal, criminal, credit or traffic infraction that may surface in your background investigation.
References
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