Interview on Tuesday any last minute advice?

[Jlonigro]

I have a Tuesday morning HR interview in Santa Barbara was wondering if any LEO's had some last minute advice... I have been doing my homework on the city learning various facts that pertain to the PD. Your words are greatly appreciated.

Thanks, J

[SkyStorm82]

Just be yourself. The department you want to work at should fit you. Not the other way around. There's some places I know I just couldn't work.

Good luck and let us know how it goes.

[JoeDirt]

From personal experience, most oral boards are looking for someone that exhibits certain traits...mostly:

(1) common sense
(2) good judgment and decision making in high stress situations
(3) well disciplined
(4) well groomed/healthy (physically fit)

It's good that you've researched things that pertain to the PD you are applying for, but I wouldn't stress those things too much...departments don't usually expect you to know their policy/SOP, they just want someone they think they can mold and that has the potential to be a good officer. There will most likely be scenario based questions...my suggestion is to not over think them and not try to answer with something you think their SOP says you should do, instead just simplify the situation and use common sense. When it all comes down to it, preservation of life and officer safety is the most important issue - not apprehending a criminal.

Good luck.

[Roddd]

Don't quote the population of the city or how many square miles it is. Do research in local newspapers and find out about local projects the city is working on...stuff like that. It may be too late but doing a ride a long is an excellent idea. Be open and honest with them. Don't talk with your hands, use your big boy voice, and address everyone in the room. The person(s) doing the interview will be able to tell if you have command presence as soon as you walk in the room. Remember, treat this as the last interview you will ever do in your life. Be confident, but not cocky. Wear a suit, but not a flashy Jersey Shore styled one. Shave your face, clip your fingernails, get a haircut. These things might not matter in the civilian world, but in LE, it's crucial. Don't be late. 15 minutes early is on time, on time is late. Best of all, good luck! You're getting a front row seat to the greatest show on earth.

[hitman13]

Shouldn't have to be said, but wear a suit if you have one...

[emvampyre]

This may sound silly but : DON'T LIE!

About anything. You would be amazed at how many candidates kill their chances at being hired by lying about the silliest things.

No, I"m not calling you a liar, nor am I trying to infer anything. All I'm saying is if you tell them you don't know something fine, or if you didn't or can't do something they may be looking for, don't say you can do it, once did it, etc...Be yourself, stay calm and smile.

Good luck!

[Jlonigro]

Everyone thank you so much for the advice... Every bit of information will help me tomorrow. I have talked with numerous people and all story's lead the same way. Thanks again!
-J

[Jlonigro]

Just be yourself. The department you want to work at should fit you. Not the other way around. There's some places I know I just couldn't work.

Good luck and let us know how it goes.

Good point... This is my dream job.... Will do!

[Jlonigro]

From personal experience, most oral boards are looking for someone that exhibits certain traits...mostly:

(1) common sense
(2) good judgment and decision making in high stress situations
(3) well disciplined
(4) well groomed/healthy (physically fit)

It's good that you've researched things that pertain to the PD you are applying for, but I wouldn't stress those things too much...departments don't usually expect you to know their policy/SOP, they just want someone they think they can mold and that has the potential to be a good officer. There will most likely be scenario based questions...my suggestion is to not over think them and not try to answer with something you think their SOP says you should do, instead just simplify the situation and use common sense. When it all comes down to it, preservation of life and officer safety is the most important issue - not apprehending a criminal.

Good luck.

Check, check,check, and check... Those are four things that I highly pride my self with.. Thank you very much for your input it is greatly appreciated

[c3 rolling]

They are probably going to ask you why you want to join their department. Have a good response! People that are interested in law enforcement tend to apply to any city that is hiring. They will want to hear why you decided to choose their department and don't just say, " I live in this city" or "I've applied everywhere and I just want to get hired". Trust me, a lot of people say it. Good luck bro.

[PositiveInfluence]

Let us know how it goes! Good luck and make sure to use the bathroom first, helps with the nerves and makes so you aren't doing the "pee pee dance" while sitting there. Hehe... I know from experience with that last one.