Careers: Page 12

BOOK REVIEW, If I Knew Then: Life Lessons From Cops on the Street

This book differs from similar collective works in the sheer passion of the writers. For once, they are allowed to write from their inner warrior's soul. You will sense a certain energy from the contributors that you do not normally sense in this genre of writing.

Ink and Internet Indiscretions

Posting party photos online and getting tattoos is OK for most people, but police agencies will expect you to be more careful of the image you project.

Photo via Flickr.com (kptyson).

LAPD Hollywood's Vice Unit

The movie industry has helped make Hollywood a much more seductive idea than physical destination and, more recently, has exposed the underbelly as well. Hollywood's streets often become "tracks" for street prostitutes, and boisterous nightclubs shun operating rules.

Arrested suspects wait on the detention bench for booking and processing at the LAPD's Hollywood Division station. Photo by Paul Clinton

Surviving Rookie Mistakes

Of course, you will be picked on and probably get a nickname related to your mistake, but you take it and walk.

Image via Flickr.com (kk+).

Tough Outer Shell, Soft Center

If you ever attend a police funeral, you will see the two cops that you know are roughest and maybe even jaded, hug each other. Don't let this shock you.

Be Your Own Medic

Knowing first-aid could save your life or the life of a fellow officer and keep you in the fight.

Image via CascadeAndSTAN (Flickr)

Start Financial Survival Now

In my decades of police work I have seen far too many coppers get in over their heads by living large and not preparing for a rainy day. I don't care what you call your savings, just have some.

Be the Best Job Candidate

Don't lose heart. Finding a way to stand out and rise to the top is the real goal.

High-Tech Troubles

Say you're texting another cop about a case. Are these texts discoverable? Freedom of information and open records laws are evolving as we speak. Learn your state's laws and how they apply to you.

Text about the job at your own peril. Image via Ken Banks, kiwanja.net.

Take a Stretch Break

How can you prevent muscle pulls? A martial arts pal of mine recommends taking frequent stretch breaks. No, I did not say coffee breaks, snack breaks, or smoke breaks; I said stretch breaks.

Image via John Carleton (Flickr.com)

Oral Interview Tips

Once you find some questions, practice them in front of someone and make sure to do it aloud. Sitting in your room whispering them will not cut it.

Image via Alex France (Flickr.com)

Beware of "Embellishment"

I was always told by my sainted Irish mother that if you tell the truth the first time you will never have to remember what lie you told. Sage words from my childhood that still apply today.

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