Police Officer 

How did you get your current job?
Applied through an ad listed on my state’s employment website; found by a search on the same site.

What was the application process?
Submitted resume and application, electronically.

Did you have to interview for your current job? If yes, what did the interview process entail?
Single in-person interview, with follow-up by phone. Interviewed with the Chief of Police and Assistant Chief of Police.

If you can remember, what questions were you asked during the interview?
A number of hypothetical situations were presented to me, such as “How would you handle it if you pulled over a DUI, and it turned out to be the mayor/a family member/friend?”

I was also asked about my views on drug laws, why I wanted to be a police officer, what previous experience I felt prepared me for this job, etc.

Do you feel your employer properly prepared you for your job? Explain.
No, there was very little preparation offered, for my position. In my case, it was not necessary, but that should definitely be improved.

Was there training for your current position? If yes, what did it entail?
On the job training was made available, as well as specialized courses in the use of chemical weapons, batons, etc. I also had previous experience and training, as a corrections officer.

Do you feel your educational background prepared you for your job? Explain.
No. I did not finish college, and was a History major, so it was not applicable.

If applicable, do you feel your internship experience helped you prepare for your job?
N/a.

If someone wanted to go about getting a job similar to yours, what would you recommend for him or her to do?
Check with your state civil service office, to determine the specific tests you may need to take, to qualify. Entry-level positions are available, but prior experience in a related field, such as security or corrections, is helpful. Check out your own record, to make sure your criminal record is clean, and any questionable bits of your history can be accounted for.

What skills do you think a person should have if they want to pursue a position like yours?
Excellent people skills, ability to learn new tasks quickly, good memory, strong observational skills, solid writing and descriptive skills. Good overall physical condition.

Do you feel that you need a certain level of education or training to be successful in your job?
No specialized education or degree is needed, but training and testing will be required, so knowledge of police work, early on, is very beneficial.

What advice would you give to someone who was about to start work in your position/ line of work?
Stay alert; learn to pay attention to and retain everything you see and hear, as it will help both in training, and in keeping you safe on the job. Visit your local police station, and talk to some of the officers there, to find out more about what the particular job experience in that area/dept is like.