How good are my chances for landing a federal job?

What are some pointers that may increase my chances in landing a job as a sheriff, or as police officer?

• I am a 20 year old guy; nearly 21..I have been applying for law enforcement positions, and taking exams, attending seminars, etc., for about 6 months now, and so far I've successfuly passed my physical agility tests, however, not the written tests..I keep studying, so I can achieve a respectable score on my written exams..I have a coulpe upcoming written exams currently..but aside from successfuly passing these tests, what else can I do to increase my chances in nailing a job in a department? I am just your average joe; high school diploma, curently atending college, though not close to even attaing a two year degree yet..having said that, as you can see, my chances are either slim, or just as average as anyone else's...so what are some things law enforcement agencies look for? what could be some factors that may outstand me from the rest of the other applicants?..I'd really appreciate the advice.. thanks

• Answer:

  Almost all application tests for police are basically reading and comprehension test. Since the early 1970's the courts had decided that such tests have to be work related. You may have noticed that you are often given a section of what looks like a training manual to read and then scenarios. You are given a choice of answers. The answers depend on your interpretation, not an exact quote from, the text you just read. What screws many up is (not in any special order) A. not fully reading the stuff given B. not understanding the question(s) C. over thinking, looking for trick questions D. not using or knowing how to use your logical and critical thinking abilities to simply eliminate the 2 or 3 answers that are wrong right away. So I suggest that while looking to earn you 60 semester hours you take a remedial reading course and an introduction to philosophy or comparative religions class (for the critical thinking skills they help develop). Having a great or at least complete work/school history helps. Having jobs, in the past, where you have lots of public contact also helps. For years my departments actually recruited bus drivers from our city the time and in most cases had to settle problems on their own, without help. What can make you stand out, you still have to pass the tests, is having some community volunteer work under your belt. Shows any hiring board that you are someone who cares about the community and is has an ethos to help people.