What Questions to Ask When You're Job Shadowing at a Police Department

The purpose of job shadowing is to learn as much about a particular career so you know if this is something you can see yourself doing in the future. Shadowing at a police department can orient you to the types of duties you might be performing as an officer of the law or as a support professional who works in the police department. Come prepared with a list of questions to ask so you can get the most from your job shadow experience.

General Questions to Ask Cops

First and foremost, you want to know what kind of duties you can expect to be performing in various positions. If possible, interview different people in the department about their duties and responsibilities. This gives you an idea of where you would most like to see yourself working. Speak to a police chief, a beat cop, a secretary, a detective, or other individuals available about their roles in the department. Talking to different people can help give you a well-rounded view of the world of law enforcement.

Job Benefits/Drawbacks

Other important questions to ask a police officer about their job relate to the job's benefits and drawbacks, according to Live Career. Answers may vary according to the officer's job description. For example, the overnight shift supervisor might lament the long, late hours and having to sleep during the daytime, but appreciate the pay. The officer stationed in the local high school might miss the freedom of being outdoors but really enjoy working with youth and educating them about safety. The police officer might worry about the dangers associated with working in a high-crime neighborhood, but be energized by the frequent adrenaline rushes.

Job Ladder

Ask questions about how you can progress as an employee within the department, such as moving up from beat cop to police sergeant. You might ask how the lead detective started out. You want to know what position suits your particular career goals and where you see yourself in the future. If you want to be a top forensics analyst, ask about the path to getting there. Many positions in police departments start with less glamorous duties such as issuing parking citations, filling paperwork or answering phones until you prove your metal.

Job Preparation

The education required for a police officer ranges from a high school diploma to a college degree, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. So, you want to know what necessary steps you need to take to get into your desired position at a police department. Most positions require a certain level of training specific to the job.

Ask questions about where you can obtain training or schooling, what datelines and process you must follow for signing up, how many recruits they accept each year and whether you would be eligible for particular positions. Ask whether the department has standards related to age and ability and what the process is like for the criminal background check. Getting the answers to these questions providing a road map to get you from where you are to a career in the police department.