More Ways to Ruin Your Police Career
Here I'll share still more potential career killers that can haunt you. I'm only trying to keep you out of trouble and maybe save your career.
October 23, 2013
Here I'll share still more potential career killers that can haunt you. I'm only trying to keep you out of trouble and maybe save your career.
October 23, 2013
You can have a fine career here in Copland and can do so without breaking the rules and ending up in trouble. Each of these lessons learned comes from a true story that had liability and professional repercussions.
October 3, 2013
Great mentors seem to live for the teaching moments of life. It is easy to scream at someone who makes a mistake. It takes patience to seize a mistake and turn it into a learning experience. The leader who takes you aside for a teaching moment is a real leader.
August 21, 2013
Elected officials seeking reforms seem to lack the respect for the men and women of emergency services. As one said recently to me, "There is no difference between a police officer and ditch digger, you are all my servants."
August 14, 2013
There are a few dos and don'ts when visiting or training at another department. Never forget that you're an ambassador for learning. These students didn't come to sit in awe of you.
January 22, 2013
Once you become a police officer or deputy, the world changes its view of you. I know you're the same man or woman that you were before you poked your hand up and took the oath, but there are some realities we need to discuss.
January 3, 2013
Law enforcement is steeped in para-military tradition. Rank structure is a key to our successes.
December 18, 2012
Today's technology has made it a lot easier for officers to write and submit their reports. But just because it appears easier, doesn't mean it will be accurate. A keyboard still needs a human's input.
October 17, 2012
Through my years of dealing with rookies, I've read far too many cavalier statements by either brash or totally unwitting rookies. Here are the most common ones that you'll want to avoid.
August 21, 2012
When you go to IA, be professional. The movie scenes of the renegade cop who stomps in, puts his feet on their desk and proclaims that they should "prove it" is bad movie acting. Go in and listen! Fully understand what has brought you in front of them.
October 3, 2011
Anger will only divert you from tactical awareness. You'll become a Neanderthal and lose your professionalism. If you whip the pudding out of some mouthy inebriated social misfit, all you've done is become a criminal.
September 27, 2011
Detectives build their case on your preliminary report. Prosecutors decide whether to move forward with the case based on your report. Insurance companies, probation officers, and others will use your work product to help them with their roles. Pay attention to the details; it will pay off in more ways than one.
September 20, 2011
They claim they're looking for a friend — a strong, handsome young man in uniform. Add to that description a good steady job, good pay, and benefits. Wait, I thought they were only looking for friendship. They want to hang around, show up in your life and sooner or later potentially ruin your career and life.
August 8, 2011
Most of the politicians want to know you and get the name-and-face thing down pat in case they can use you. Yes, I said use you. Be professional and courteous, and don't speak outside of the department's policy and procedures.
August 1, 2011
Learn to manage the little things, which are the foundation for more important things in life. Preparation for duty equates to pride in yourself and your performance. Preparation sends the message that you're a professional and a force to be reckoned with.
July 18, 2011