Becoming a Police Officer - Law Enforcement Local and International Law Enforcement Community

**Ryan701** · 03-24-2009

As talked about a little bit with DoubleTap in my introduction thread, I am working on become a Police Officer in the Orange County area of Southern California.

A little bit more about myself: I am 27 years old and currently work at a bank. I went to a four year college for 3 years and didn't enjoy what I was studying. It took me awhile, but being a Police Officer is what I was meant to be. I am in good shape and go to the gym on a regular basis. I have applied at many law enforcement agencies in my area and have done very well, but I seem to have a little trouble with the interview process. I don't know why I am having trouble in this area. My background is great. I have one moving violation (speeding ticket) and a few parking tickets. I have never been arrested or done drugs. So, I'm a little confused.

Another thing that is hurting my chances to become a Police Officer is the economy. Due to the economy a lot of law enforcement agencies in my area have had hiring freezes. Due to these factors I am planning on attending a part time academy in August, which is 11 months long and on nights and weekends. I plan on attending that academy rather than a 6-7 month academy so that I can keep working at my full-time job at the bank.

Any help or ideas are greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

**DoubleTap** · 03-26-2009

Attending the academy as a self sponsored individual may help you get hired because the departments my not want to pay you, or pay for you to go through the academy. The interview process is a tough one. It could be anywhere from, the way you sit, to how to talk, to how you answer questions. If you do not answer the questions the way the department likes, you will not move on in the process!

Try to find out some information about the department when you go into the interview, know how many officers they have, the programs they are involved in...etc. If they allow you to, try and do a ride-along while in the process to show them you are interested.

**Swattie** · 03-27-2009

When you interview they want to see confidence and quick responses that have the right answer. They want to see someone that, when alone, can make a good judgement on a split second decision.

Be confident. No piercings , at all. No visible tats either at the interview. Wear a suit as you need to show them you can look professional as well as act it.

Show command authority in the interview. Keep eye contact, be confident in your answers. Give a FIRM handshake at the beginning and the end.

All that should help. You got to provide your own answers though.

**Ryan701** · 03-27-2009

Thanks for the input guys. I think I might try and go to the academy myself if I can't get sponsored by a Police Department.

I wear a suit to every interview and have no tattoos or piercings. I have been on a few ride-a-longs and loved them. I always shake hands with a firm handshake. I guess I just have to work on the other things.

Thanks again for the great input.

**DoubleTap** · 03-30-2009

Like both Swattie and I said, they are looking for the "right" answer. This answer may not actually be the answer you view as correct, if it is not the one they want, then it is possible that is why they have been denying you.

What kind of schooling do you have? Do you do community Service? Why apply for this department? Why should we hire you? Those are all things that you can be expected to be able to answer on a moments notice.

**Ryan701** · 03-30-2009

I hear you DoubleTap. I guess I will keep trying until I get the right answer. Again, thanks for all your help, and I'll keep you up to date on how things go.

**SpecialWeapons** · 04-10-2009

Step1
Take high school and/or continuing education courses in business math/accounting, computer applications and behavioral sciences.
Step2
Maintain your level of physical fitness. Participation in high school sports will contribute to both your athletic development and your application for appointment to the police department.
Step3
Consider a period of military service. Two years in the armed forces is excellent mental and physical conditioning for police work.
Step4
Use common sense. There will be a background check, and a career in law enforcement can quickly be short-circuited by "youthful indiscretions."
Step5
Take the written civil service exam for police officers. You can obtain information about the exam through your local police department.
Step6
Pass the physical exam, which typically includes tests of vision, hearing, strength and agility.
Step7
Pass the lie detector test.
Step8
Pass the drug test. In addition, should you become a police officer, you may be subject to continued random drug testing during your employment.
Step9
Have an interview with a senior officer and/or take a personality test to assess your personal characteristics, such as judgment, integrity and responsibility.

**Ryan701** · 04-10-2009

Mike,

Thanks for the great input. I greatly appreciate it. Right now I seem to be having a bit of trouble with southern california cities hiring police officers. I can't do much about that right now, but I am keeping in shape so when the opportunity arrises I can take advantage of it.

I also plan on attending an academy on my own in Aug. to help me move forward in the process. Do you think this is a good idea? Do you have any other suggestions besides entering the military? I have nothing against the military, I'm just looking for other options.

Thanks Again

**SpecialWeapons** · 04-11-2009

To Ryan

I did military and it was really good,but i dont know about the academy...Its not as good as military.So i would prefer military.You learn more in there.GOOD LUCK RYAN!

**Ryan701** · 04-11-2009

Mike

Thanks for the advice. I agree that the military is probably better than the academy, but will the military take someone that is 27? I thought they only took the "younger crowd" ?


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