How to Write a Resume for a Law Enforcement Job

Law enforcement covers many areas. From police officers to prison authorities to sheriffs and rangers, the job qualifications required vary as much as the job descriptions. When you set out to write a resume for this field, it's important that you keep this in mind, so you can make the most of your background and qualifications.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Create a Resume for Law Enforcement

1. Start with your college degree. Law enforcement requires you to have a post-secondary education before you are admitted for any salaried job. While a high school education is acceptable in some instances, there is little to no opportunity for advancement for those who lack higher education. If you want a job that allows for growth, include your degree when you write your resume.
2. Use numbers whenever possible. For example, you could talk about how many criminal citations you handled, what budget your division had (and how you played a role in using it wisely) and what you did to increase performance assessments in your department. Always talk in term of accomplishment rather than duties, as these are very similar everywhere and say little about your own performance on the job.
3. Mention any salary increases you received while at your previous job. This is important because salaries for law enforcement are often determined by the city or the state, and an increase in salary directly corresponds with performance or an increase in responsibilities.
4. Use a variety of keywords if posting your resume online, including variations of the words "police officer," "private detective," and "law enforcement officer." There are a variety of terms used interchangeably to refer to those working in law enforcement, and it's important that you make sure you include most of them when you write your resume. This will make it easier for recruiters to find you.
5. Highlight any experience with computers, the Internet and different methods of research and investigation. A big part of law enforcement job duties involves surveillance, computer database searches and covert operations. This requires being comfortable with searching online, sometimes for hours at a time.

Tips & Warnings

• Always match your resume with the type of position you are applying for. For example, if you want to work as a peace officer, highlight your work with groups and your excellent people skills. If, however, you want a job in administrative law enforcement, focus on your achievements with management and control.

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