Tips for New Police Officers Preparing for a Successful Career
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As a new police officer, you are stepping into a role where everyone is watching you. From the hiring process to the police academy, and through field training. All eyes are on you!
Getting hired into law enforcement can be compared to employment in other professions but ones that you may not even think of.
and...
Being from Boston I like to compare new police officers to that of new professional athletes.
Like, let's say, major league baseball players.
No, really! Think about it for a second.
Some people are trying to figure out if you're coachable and you can be trained to replace other producers who may have moved on to another agency or even retired.
Some others are trying to figure out if you're a screw-up and won't last but a few months. Other people are trying to figure out if you really are that superstar that the administration has been nonstop talking about.
Some are even trying to figure out if you're going to, well, take their specialty positions like that of DH, closer, or even starting shortstop.
Do you get the point? I think you do!
Maybe that helped you understand the importance of the role you are filling or about to fill in your law enforcement agency.
But if not let me deep dive here for a second because if you have read any of my other articles on COPJOT.com or anywhere else for that matter you would know that I am all about keeping my readers in line with the current law enforcement climate.
and...
Let's just say this. The old days of policing are in the rearview mirror and that's where they will stay for quite some time.
Becoming a law enforcement officer certainly is a commitment to serving and protecting the community while upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability.
As a new police officer, you enter a profession that rests on the foundational pillars of trust and accountability, which are integral to the 21st Century Policing Agenda.
These principles are not just guidelines but essential aspects that influence public perception and effectiveness in policing. They underscore the importance of your actions both in and out of uniform and are critical in building and maintaining public trust.
Trust between the community and police is vital for effective law enforcement. It enhances community cooperation during investigations and increases the public’s willingness to report crimes.
Accountability is equally important; it ensures that police officers and their departments are held to high standards.
Oversight mechanisms, such as body cameras and civilian review boards, help ensure that officers’ actions are transparent and in line with department policies.
Maybe we can thank the opponents of law and order for this or maybe we can thank ourselves for it. But, nevertheless, body cameras, civilian review boards, and police reform are all here to stay.
I hope that I have painted this picture well for you and with this backdrop, here are some essential tips to help new police officers navigate the early stages of their law enforcement careers, setting the stage for success and fulfillment in the field.
This article is dedicated to you, Mr. or Mrs. Rookie Police Officer because in reality law enforcement needs you and the administration is relying on you to do the right thing even when nobody is looking.
Without you, American policing would continue to lose police officers faster than they can be replaced when in reality the job is as exciting as it is fulfilling.
Let's get to those valuable tips.
Best Tips for New Law Enforcement Officers
Understanding Your Role
The first step in ensuring a successful start to your law enforcement career is to thoroughly understand your role within the department.
Familiarize yourself with the specific duties and responsibilities that come with your position. Know the policies and procedures of your department, as well as the laws and regulations you are expected to enforce.
This foundational knowledge will not only boost your confidence but also enhance your effectiveness on the job.
If your agency is discipline heavy be sure that you know your policies and procedures well and operate within them.
Know the Chain of Command
The chain of command is a fundamental component in law enforcement agencies, where each rank has distinct responsibilities, and every officer knows their place within the hierarchy.
This structure ensures that instructions flow downwards from higher-ranking officers to those at lower levels.
In almost all law enforcement agencies there is a strict adherence to the chain of command. It is important that you know who you report to.
LEARN MORE: >> Chain of Command: It's the Silent Force Behind Effective Policing! >>
Effective Communication
Communication is a cornerstone of effective law enforcement. As a new officer, you should strive to develop excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Always communicate through the proper channels and keep your superiors informed of important issues.
Effective communication can improve your interactions with colleagues, superiors, and the community, and can be critical in de-escalating potentially volatile situations.
But don't over-communicate. Know how to communicate and then know when to use those two ears that you have been blessed with.
Respecting Authority
In a paramilitary organization like a police department, respect for hierarchy and authority is paramount.
Show respect to higher-ranking officers and heed their advice and directives.
These individuals have more experience and responsibility and can provide you with valuable insights and guidance. Respecting your superiors can also open up opportunities for mentorship, which is invaluable in any career.
If you have co-workers with gray hair they didn't just grow them overnight. Those grays have a lot of street experience and have seen a thing or two. Show them respect until they prove otherwise.
Adhering to Policies, Procedures, SOP's, and Guidelines
Strict adherence to departmental procedures and protocols is essential. Period. These procedures are designed to protect your safety, the safety of the public, and the integrity of your department.
Following them meticulously not only ensures consistency in law enforcement but also protects you legally and professionally.
If your agency is accredited locally or even nationally you're going to need to spend some extra time getting to know your policies and procedures.
Inquisitiveness
Never hesitate to ask questions, especially if you are unsure about any aspect of your duties or departmental policies.
Seeking clarity is critical in law enforcement, where misunderstandings can have significant consequences.
Inquisitiveness is a trait that will serve you well throughout your career, as it leads to continuous learning and improvement.
Learning from Others
The experience of seasoned colleagues is a valuable resource. Take every opportunity to learn from more experienced officers.
Observing and engaging with them can help you gain practical skills that are not taught in the academy.
This hands-on learning can be about anything from handling paperwork efficiently to managing stressful encounters on the street.
What I like to teach my OIT's (Officer In Training) is that learning to do the job well is like going to a buffet. You should take what several different officers do well and allow all of those great traits and qualities to become who you are.
Professionalism
Maintaining professionalism at all times is important, both in and out of uniform.
As a police officer, you represent your department and the broader law enforcement community.
Professional behavior builds trust and respect with the public and among your peers. This includes being punctual, presentable, polite and prepared for all situations.
Proactive Learning
Law enforcement is an ever-evolving field, and continuous education is key to staying effective.
Be proactive about your professional development. Pursue additional training, certifications, and higher education opportunities.
Many departments offer support for continued education because they value well-rounded and knowledgeable officers.
Handling Criticism
Constructive criticism is part of professional growth. Learn to accept feedback graciously and use it to improve your performance.
Whether it comes from a superior during a performance review or an informal comment from a colleague, constructive criticism is valuable information that can help you excel in your role.
Maintain a Healthy Balance of Work and Family Life
The demanding nature of your job, with irregular hours, high-stress situations, and the need for constant vigilance, can create significant strain on personal relationships and family life.
Achieving a healthy balance between work and family is essential not only for the well-being of the officer but also for your families and communities.
The repercussions of not having a healthy balance of work-family can be devastating on a marriage, children of all ages as well as finances and both physical and mental health.
RELATED: >> Here's How Cops Can Maintain a Healthy Work and Family Life >>
Slow and Steady Wins the Race
A law enforcement career is a turtle race, not a rabbit race. It might not seem like it now but being a law enforcement officer is a job. It pays the bills. It keeps a roof over your family's heads.
One of the best pieces of advice I can give you is that you can never go wrong with a summons to appear later. Some people call it a paper arrest. It's where you don't take a person into custody and file charges with the court for a future appearance.
This reduces liability.
Building Relationships
Finally, cultivating positive relationships within your department and in the community is vital.
Strong relationships can provide support in stressful times, enhance teamwork, and improve job satisfaction.
Don't burn bridges and don't talk negatively about co-workers. You will work with people who talk behind other employees' backs. Don't engage in this behavior and don't get sucked in.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Brian Humenuk isn't just an entrepreneur in eCommerce, he is also an informed leader whose experience provides followers and visitors with a look into current and past police issues making headlines in the United States.
Brian has earned three degrees in Criminal Justice with the last, a Masters of Science in Criminal Justice Administration.
Brian extends his training, education, and experience to the officers just now getting into the field so that they may become more informed police officers and stay clear of police misconduct and corruption.
You can find out more about Brian and the COPJOT story on the ABOUT US page.
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