Are you right for the job?
Thinking of becoming a police officer? Check out this list of skills and learn how to develop them.
Neutrality
Like everyone else, police officers have family, friends and acquaintances. Despite this, police officers must treat everyone equally and apply the law in the same way, even when it’s difficult to do so.You have what you need to succeed if:
- You are fair-minded during an argument between two people, even if your best friend is involved.
- You help people resolve conflicts without being controlled by your emotions.
- You can find solutions to issues involving your parents and your teachers.
To develop these skills, you can:
- Put yourself in the shoes of someone who does not share your opinions.
- Play the role of a mediator during a heated discussion between your friends and reconcile their points of view.
- Before giving your opinion on a topic that you don’t know much about, learn more about it so you can weigh the pros and cons.
Ability to Interact with Others
Police officers must be able to work with people inside and outside the police force and build solid relationships with them. They must also enjoy teamwork and cooperating with others.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
Police officers must be self-confident and exercise their authority in difficult situations.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.
Emotional Control
Because police officers deal with crises, they must be able to handle pressure and keep their cool, even in tense situations.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.
