Career as a Police Officer
Career as a Police Officer
Police recruitment involves a thorough background check so you should have a clean history. You also will need to take the written civil service exam which you can get from your local police department.
A physical exam will need to be undertaken and passed. This test will generally involve aspects of agility, strength and endurance. A vision and hearing medical test will also be required. All of these tests ensure that you are fit and healthy enough to endure the rigors of being in the law enforcement field.
Many departments now also require a lie detector test to be taken. A drug test is also performed. Your drug test will need to be totally clear. Random drug tests are also performed throughout the career of a police officer.
The final of the steps to become a police officer is an interview with a senior officer. Some offices require a personality test to be taken at this time too. During your interview, you should display a firm, confident personality as police generally do not hire timid, unsure people.
Some personal skills required of a police officer are:
- Team player – Confident – Well spoken – Well educated – Good communication – Respect for all races and types of people – Sensitivity in difficult situations – Can emotionally detach from personal situations
These personal skills will ensure you have a long career; one that is filled with many achievements.
