Becoming a police officer is truly an honor. It takes dedication and bravery, especially during your first months on the job. Use this time wisely and you could set the baseline for a very successful career. Below are some common mistakes rookie police officers make and advice on how to avoid them.
1. Not asking questions
No one goes into their first day of work and knows everything. It is unwise to make guesses in an attempt to impress your superiors. This can lead to dangerous mistakes later on. You should not be embarrassed to ask questions to help yourself learn procedure and hierarchy. Your fellow officers will likely be happy to help you learn the ropes early on.
2. Displaying cockiness
You may feel a certain amount of pride in your new position, and that is good. However, do not go overboard with it. Try to remain humble in your position. If you act as though you know everything and are better than your fellow officers, you could damage the crucial bond between members of a police unit.
3. Going it alone
There is no doubt that the first few months of police service are challenging. Trying to navigate them alone can lead you to burn out or turn bitter toward the job. During your Field Training and Evaluation Program, you are expected to learn and seek guidance from fellow officers. This is the perfect opportunity to find a mentor in your unit. He or she can be your partner or a senior officer. This individual can provide you with support and advice as you traverse the early stages of your law enforcement career. He or she can also help you through your first difficult experiences.
4. Not respecting superiors
Officers who have put in more years than you have experienced a lot on the job. They understand its workings and may have witnessed some difficult things. If you come in without respect for their service or for the job, you are unlikely to win their favor and support. Keep your uniform cleaned and pressed, be on time and be willing to listen.
5. Being too hard on yourself
It is inevitable that you will make mistakes in the beginning. The only way you are letting anyone down is by not allowing yourself to move past your mistakes. Acknowledge them, learn from them and then move past them.
6. Holding yourself back
While you should remain humble and respectful, it does not mean you should prohibit yourself from displaying your full potential. If you know the answer, speak up. If you are able to make the arrest, do it. Your superiors will likely appreciate your capabilities, but you will never know if you hold yourself back.
You earned the right to wear the badge of a police officer. That is no small accomplishment and one you should be proud of. However, rookie officers can sometimes make mistakes that will hinder their career. Avoid the common ones listed above to ensure that your first few months on the job set the precedent for your success.