Police Promotions

So you want to promote, but they are only hiring the number ONE position on the list? Here are a few ways to increase your potential in a Police Promotions Interview.

First, Dress for success. This has been said time and time again, and STILL candidates come to a Police promotions interview - a HOT MESS ! Let's see...the Police require strict regulations on their uniform standards, but people think it's appropriate to ask for a promotion dressed in the khaki pants and sports coat that has been hanging in your closet for at least a decade? Get with it guys and gals ! The best investment you can make for a first impression (or at least a lasting impression if you mess this up) is to go out and buy yourself the best SUIT you can find. Have it professionally taylored. Choose a dark color. Choose a suit that is of quality. I don't know if it's more embarassing to the oral board panel or the candidate, when a bad suit walks in. Every good intention can go by the wayside, when a cheap suit that is not properly fitted walks in and sits down. This can be very distracting to those who are making the decision to promote you or not.

Second, Educate yourself. This means finding out as much about the position, the politics of the agency, and who is going to make the final decision to hire the next candidate. Follow the trends. Examine what people around the organization who are already successful have done to gain their status. Begin the process long before the job announcement has been placed. After the announcement has been placed, it is hard pressed to get anyone of power to discuss the position with you. It is in bad taste for them to respond to your questions (at this point), and often against company policies.

Finally, Get with it. Be involved. Volunteer. Stay positive. Do not let previous challenges (aka failures) dictate your attitude in the Promotions interview. The panel does not want to hear a candidate vent, complain, or gossip.

Good luck !