There are several different things you can do to make yourself more attractive to potential law enforcement agencies. Here are just five more things:
#1- Pursue a Higher Education
If you are under 21, join the military or go to college. Get yourself a Bachelor degree or a 2-year degree. You aren’t required to get the degree in criminal justice if you don’t want to. In fact, I encourage people to get it in something other than law enforcement. You’ll have more flexibility if you decide later law enforcement is not for you.
I majored in criminal Justice but I also have a degree in psychology. If I decide later I want to work in a different industry, I can do so with my Psychology degree. I love being a cop so I don’t see that happening in the foreseeable future unless I get the axe for some reason. Even then I will find another job in law enforcement.
#2- Stay employed and Don’t jump from job to job
If you plan on becoming an officer try not to “Job Hop” in years prior to applying. Showing long term commitment to a job shows them you are a reliable person.
#3- Do Ride Alongs
Go to your local City PD and request to do ride-alongs. Familiarize yourself with the department(s) and get to know the chief/sheriff. Go to citizens academy if your area offers one.
# 4- Get involved in the non-paid volunteer program.
Join the Auxiliary unit of the department you want to apply if they have one. Many departments have the same basic hiring requirements for their Auxiliary as they do paid officers. This will give you the chance to attend training and demonstrate your abilities. It will also give you a chance to meet and work with various members of the department and enhance your chances of applying for a paid position.
#5 – Stay in shape
Finally, get in shape. Nothing is more embarrassing than showing up to the agility test facility grossly out of shape. It doesn’t take much effort to train three times a week. I designed a workout program specifically for the agility test, download it here.
