Are you right for the job?
Thinking of becoming a correctional officer? Check out this list of skills and learn how to develop them.
Emotional Control
As a correctional officer you will undoubtedly find yourself in challenging situations that are sometimes difficult to manage. But no matter what is unfolding, you have to be calm and keep your wits about you. This isn’t a profession for the faint of heart!You have what you need to succeed if:
- You don’t react violently when provoked.
- You maintain your concentration in stressful situations, such as when you are studying the night before an exam.
- You help other people resolve conflicts without getting emotional.
To develop these skills, you can:
- Learn stress management techniques, like taking deep breaths.
- Get in the habit of telling your problems to a friend rather than bottling up your frustrations.
- Practice a martial art, yoga or any sport that helps you get rid of stress.
Ability to Interact with Others
A correctional officer must earn the confidence and respect of offenders so that he can help them re-enter the community. He has to be able to relate to many different people including his colleagues and the offenders he works with.You have what you need to succeed if:
- You know how to make friends easily.
- You adapt quickly to people from different cultures, backgrounds and ages.
- You can negotiate with friends to solve problems.
To develop these skills, you can:
- Register in an extra-curricular activity where you don’t know anyone else.
- Become a youth mediator to help other kids in your school resolve their differences.
- Get in the habit of introducing yourself first to people you don’t know and start conversations with them.
Firmness
A correctional officer must be determined and firm when he discovers that a rule has been broken and action is needed. He must enforce the detention center rules, without abusing his power.You have what you need to succeed if:
- You can defend a very controversial position during a discussion, even if all your friends disagree with you.
- You are clear with your feelings when you are not happy with certain situations, such as when someone shows up late for a meeting.
- You know how to keep control of the situation and be firm about the rules when you are babysitting.
To develop these skills, you can:
- Work with children as an assistant coach or become the referee of a sport.
- Get in the habit of staying firm in your decisions and ideas.
- Establish a budget for the next year and stick to it despite the temptation to spend, with the goal of saving and buying something you really want.
Respect for the Rules
A correctional officer has to follow the rules and apply them, even if he sometimes disagrees. His job is to keep order in what can at times be a chaotic place to work.You have what you need to succeed if:
- You always arrive on time for appointments and classes.
- You respect the rules when you are playing a game and don’t cheat.
- You are disciplined when it’s time to study and you don’t waste time.
To develop these skills, you can:
- Register for an activity that requires you to be disciplined and follow certain rules, such as a sports team.
- Always read and understand the directions your teachers give you before starting your work.
- Find a recipe for your favourite food and follow the directions for making it.
