What makes police officer candidates stand out?

Hello,

I too have a B.S. in Criminal Justice and was able to use that as a foundation for a subsequent Master's Degree. I tell you this so you know that a CJ degree has value and merit. There are a lot of nay-sayers out there. Don't let them dissuade you.

To be a stand out in an academy, let your abilities do the talking. Physical fitness is a big deal nowadays and they are moving more into stamina events. Think about cross-fit and Combat fitness and practice now to get in shape. Next study, study, study... as a former honors graduate from an large agency police academy, nothing speaks louder than being academically solid. Lastly, help others in the class. Every academy class has a cadet or two that needs some assistance. Offer to have after session study groups or other remedial training that you are competent at and can be a partner to help.

Here are the 5 expectations I have for my subordinates, see if they can help:
1. Come to work on time (my personal saying is that if your are early then you are on time, and if you are on time you are late)
2. Do you job
3. Watch out for each other
4. Be safe
5. Go home at the end of your shift

I will leave you with this and I hope I have been of some help:

Never be afraid to lead. When you lead; lead from the front and lead by example.

Good luck and we'll see you out there
JD

Hello,
I'm retired Chicago PD police officer as canine handler 24 years and 10 years in the district. I have a Ba in Cr./Soc Justice, highest honors and an MPA in public administration. Some qualities are attention to detail, willingness to learn from experienced officers not rookies. Present yourself as a problem solver, not as a know-it-all. When a situation presents itself, find the solution if you don't know. Always be fair and impartial because people are looking to you for answers to their problems. It's what we do.
What helped me personally was that I am one of nine children, seven brothers. I also was a bouncer at a couple of bars prior to police work, These jobs taught me the art of negotiation, not to use my force to solve problems. Finally, always think before you act, don't just guess. Good luck and welcome aboard.
JRL

Hello Christina!

From your question I am guessing that you're looking for tips regarding the hiring process. I've been in law enforcement for nearly 30 years and have spent about 25 of those as an investigator and the supervisor of the Investigations Division. In this role I am very involved in the selection and screening process of applicants who seek to become police officers and it is from this perspective that I'm answering your question. A truly "stand out" applicant/candidate is one who arrives for tests, interviews, etc. about five or ten minutes early, clean, well groomed, properly attired, prepared to perform, and mentally ready to go. This person will not have a criminal history or a history or drug/alcohol usage or the abuse of steroids and/or prescription meds. While this person may not have a long work history their current and former employers will give them positive performance reviews and recommendations (past performance is the best way to predict future performance). Their friends and associates will be persons of good character and reputation (you really are judged by the company you keep). Obviously, having college and/or military experience is always a good idea. Aside from that I ask only that an applicant/candidate do what is asked of them (provide me with the reference materials I need) and that they do their very best all the time, every time. Best wishes now and for the future!

An AA or BS degree in Criminal Justice will definitely help you stand out as a candidate for a job in the Criminal Justice system. Make sure that you focus on your writing skills.

Having good writing skills is very important for police officers because their reports are often used in court. There is nothing more embarrassing for an officer than to present a poorly written report in court. Remember that your reports will represent you as a professional.