Becoming a LEO 101

[Kornholio]

Gents, I don't think a suit color matters for shit, but rather the fact that it's clean and pressed.

It's better than the alternative, that's for sure.

 

[JDMPenn]

For the love of God, do not buy a black suit.

You are not a Limo driver!

Funny, I was thinking of getting a black suit with white shirt and plain, cotton black tie. I guess I'll go with grey or navy blue than.

 

[Cincinnatus]

I look good in anything I wear, to include black.

 

[bojangle]

A nice dark (blue or black wool is good) single-breasted professional suit, that fits well. No plaid or bling threading. White shirt, conservative tie. Wristwatch and one ring, no bracelet(s) unless you're Hindu.

See: http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/john-w-nordstrom-travel-wool-suit/3215532?origin=category

Think that you're going for an interview with J. Edgar Hoover, and dress appropriately. Check out Mad Men. No smoking beforehand, make sure your hands are clean, nails trimmed. Shave. No cologne. Short haircut, no soul patch or goatee.

Be polite, say 'sir' or 'ma'am' as appropriate. Smile, but don't joke.

Good luck!

#1 J. Edgar Hoover was a cross dresser, so what are you getting at?

#2 Some of my best interviews involved me getting the panel laughing.

 

[JDMPenn]

I have a couple interviews coming up; is carrying a briefcase overkill? Or would a portfolio suffice?

 

[bojangle]

I have a couple interviews coming up; is carrying a briefcase overkill? Or would a portfolio suffice?

1) How about nothing.

2) If you are required to turn something in at the time of the interview, to the panel, then go for the smaller portfolio. If not see # 1.

 

[JDMPenn]

1) How about nothing.

2) If you are required to turn something in at the time of the interview, to the panel, then go for the smaller portfolio. If not see # 1.

I figured the first. I didn't want to be caught unprepared. Thanks.

 

[Lionel Cosgrove]

What does one wear to an appraisal board/interview? I have one coming up.

wear a tuxedo t-shirt because it says you want to be formal, but you're there to party.

 

[kelsodeez]

any agencies taking applications right now? i was going to apply to sfpd, but i found out about it too late and missed the filing deadline.

 

[IBYS]

End of year is when we put it out. Its closed now. I'd suggest you pick agencies your interested in and find a way online to be notified when their open (online interest card effectively).

 

[Kornholio]

Isn't there a few days left for the CHP?

 

[Rel]

Isn't there a few days left for the CHP?

Yep

 

[kelsodeez]

i thought about applying to CHP, but i figured there wouldnt be much upward mobility in terms of becoming an investigator, also, i am attending law school at the moment and i read somewhere that assignment for the CHP is based on an applicant having children or owning a home in a desired area; both of which i do not. SFPD seemed appealing to me. id like to find a position at a local pd between sf and sj. staying somewhat local is the most important thing to me, at least until i finish school.

 

[Kornholio]

If you're single and don't own a home, I understand you'll either go to the SF bay area or LA. I'm sure if you request the bay area, they'll be able to accommodate your request in one of the local offices.

 

[IBYS]

CHP is HUGE! I'd imagine you could find nearly any special assignment you want with CHP. SFPD or any other large agency as well. Talk to people in the department and get an idea of what you can do. Easy career to find your niche. Not everyone likes to write tickets or find dope or solve financial crimes.

 

[Kornholio]

It's one of the largest police agencies in the country. There's plenty to do if you want to do it I'm sure.

 

[Rel]

chp is huge! I'd imagine you could find nearly any special assignment you want with chp. Sfpd or any other large agency as well. Talk to people in the department and get an idea of what you can do. Easy career to find your niche. Not everyone likes to write tickets or find dope or solve financial crimes.

this.....

 

[ThumperX]

CHP even has a marine unit.

 

[Rel]

CHP has: marine, swat, DUI, anti terrorist, cannine, presidential protection, search and rescue, felony follow up investigators, auto theft, computer crimes, public affairs, and many more gigs.

CHP pretty much does it all.

 

[Honey Badger]

Jan 3-5 for CHP - I'll be sending in an app.