If you are planning on joining one of the 12,000 local police departments in the United States, it may be helpful to acquire certain skills that police use every day.
It is crucial to have certain qualities before becoming a police office to ace the extensive hiring process potential police officers undergo. In addition to passing a background and a psychological wellness test, aspiring police officers must complete an application, entrance exam, physical ability test, interview, polygraph test and other requirements.
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Neal C. Griffin, police expert, emphasizes the importance of the “Five I’s” when applying for a job in law enforcement: integrity, intellect, industry, initiative and impact,
according to How to Become a Police Officer. Each of these qualities is important to the skills an officer needs while on the job.
Here are some important skills for police officers.
1. Problem Solving
A police officer’s job is to problem solve to prevent crime. Police forces abide by several types and models of problem solving such as community-oriented problem solving, problem-oriented policing, and the SARA model (scanning, analysis, response, assessment).
2. Ability to Follow Orders
Police often have to perform tasks they do not want to do. Whether it is policing boring areas or alarming high-crime areas, it is important for officers to be able to complete their given assignments and maintain a level-headed demeanor, even when they frightened or bored by their given orders.
3. Capacity to Learn
As a cop, there will always be new skills to strengthen and learn. Police have to learn how to write reports, engage with civilians, arrest criminals, patrol areas and a multitude of other responsibilities.
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4. Capacity for Compassion and Respect
Police often have the difficult job of being the last person civilians want to see. Whether an officer is giving a speeding ticket or arresting a criminal, it is crucial for officers to be firm, but also show humanity and compassion for all civilians.
5. Effective Communication Skills
Police execute a variety of different communication skills. Police reports require effective written communication skills. Police must also have strong, yet varying, sets of communication skills when dealing with co-workers, courts, criminals and civilians.
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