Juv Probation interview coming up, any pointers?

[zfields]

Just got a call from a local county Juv Corrections dept regarding an application I put in about 5 months ago. Any words of advice for a probation related interview? I've taken, and passed police oral boards, but this is a first for me on the probation side.

Thanks
Z

[CaptMike]

What county are you applying with?

[RollingCode3]

What county and what is the job title for that position?

[nastyhabts26]

Be honest and sincere.
Don't get rattled by their questioning.
Don't talk excessivly and stsy on topic.
Dress appropriately and be neat and clean shaven.
No swearing, no gum chewing, smile at them and give them a firm, but not crushing hand shake, look them in the eye when answering questions.

[zfields]

What county are you applying with?

What county and what is the job title for that position?

Its here in Texas.

Juvenile probation officer. They separate them here from adult (pay is also lower).

Be honest and sincere.
Don't get rattled by their questioning.
Don't talk excessivly and stsy on topic.
Dress appropriately and be neat and clean shaven.
No swearing, no gum chewing, smile at them and give them a firm, but not crushing hand shake, look them in the eye when answering questions.

Thanks, I've done a few for police depts, and have followed that and always moved on. I'm curious if there is a large difference in the way probation does it.

[Heiko]

I would bone up on some theories of juvenile justice, probation, and rehabilitation. The focus of juvenile probation is rehabilitation and it's not just about making sure they are staying out of trouble, seeking employment, etc. Read up on diversion programs for juveniles, community programs, school programs, parenting, and the like. Knowledge of some basic concepts like parens patriae would show you put in some extra work in preparing.

I think they would be impressed if you knew about the theories behind juvenile justice. It is a very different mandate than police or even adult probation. They may ask you about certain theories and opinions of juvenile justice and answering "lock them up and throw away the key" is probably not the right answer. If you can knowledgeably talk about how juveniles are different than adult probationers and how juvenile courts differ, you will look way better than the next guy. Also, if you can talk about some of the main issues facing juveniles in your area would help to. For example, are kids getting into certain kinds of drugs or committing certain kinds of crimes in your area? Are there gangs? I think that if you are prepared to address questions about what troubles are currently facing juveniles that would be good too.

Good luck!

[CaptMike]

know and understand what evidence based programs are. That is the current push for most probation departments right now. I would suggest you visit a juvenile facility, so you really know what you are applying for. Be able to answer the standard questions that most ask, such as:
what are you applying for
what have you done to prepare
what do you offer the department
what would you do if faced with an ethical dilema (partner stealing)
how would you respond to a force situation

the other suggestions above are great, wear a dar suit, clean cut, speak proffessionally (yes sir/no ma'am),
relax and good luck

[zfields]

Thanks all.

Ill brush up on the Juv theories again. Im in a senior lever criminal theory / victimization class right now, and have had a couple previously at the junior college level, so I'm pretty up on the basics. Sadly, they spend more time on outdated theories these days, then on current ones.