5 Signs a Law Enforcement Career is for You

Not all jobs are created equal and, seeing that we spend about 80% of our lives working, our thriving in life depends on our choosing a career that sustains and fulfills us. Often, as we explore our options, watch movies, or imagine ourselves in the future we get an inkling, a gut feel, or a surge of excitement for one job over another. But before we roll the dice on education and invest our savings, energy, and effort we need to do our research, so we can bet on the possibilities with confidence.

If you’ve envisioned yourself in uniform, being part of a dynamic team intent on serving and protecting the community and upholding the law, then we’ve got your due diligence on lock.

Ever thought you’d like to become a police officer in Ontario, become a security guard or explore a police foundations diploma? Then read on …

5 Signs a Law Enforcement Career is Calling YOU!

1. You Are Passionate About People

You were likely the kid who rescued puppies, helped neighbours by shovelling their driveways or raking their leaves. You are more than kind; you are compassionate and have a propensity to put other’s needs ahead of your own. You notice people, empathize with their situations and feelings, and are compelled to provide support. You enjoy interacting with others, building relationships, and are free with conversation and easily connect. As a law enforcement officer it is essential that you can work alongside colleagues and people in the community.

2. You Stand for Justice and Enjoy Service

There is something within you that consistently considers the difference between right and wrong and wants to help uphold those values and laws that keep people safe and promote peace. You’ve probably always been this way and have encouraged those around you to ‘follow the rules’, and keenly known what they are. You understand the importance of caring for others and acts of kindness come naturally to you. Serving others will be your daily work, you’ll often be first on the scene in emergencies and how you connect and genuinely support and communicate with others will empower you to succeed in your career.

3. You Are Calm in the Midst of Chaos

You have a way about you that can diffuse situations and you flow from a place of logic rather than emotion. As a law enforcement officer, you will undoubtedly find yourself in dangerous and stressful situations. Your ability to think critically, problem solve, negotiate, persuade and make calm, clear decisions are invaluable to your safety, and the safety of your coworkers and the public.

4. You Are a Stellar Communicator

It is not only essential that you have the ‘gift of gab’ and a head for infusing peace and perspective into any situation, but your ability to actively listen and articulate professionally, sometimes creatively, are key to thriving and even surviving in this career. Your nonverbal communications skills are as vital as your verbal ones, as you speak with suspects, witnesses and even your colleagues. You will also be required to complete detailed accounts of situations, and your ability to maintain accurate case files and paperwork are crucial.

5. You’re Up for the Perpetual Challenge

Police work can be rigorous and physically demanding. To keep yourself, and those you serve, safe and fulfill the requirements and duties of your job you must be physically and mentally fit, at all times. Your strength, stamina and agility will be tested; you’ll need to pass routine physical exams. To excel as a law enforcement officer, you will need to adapt to change, and be psychologically sound throughout stressful situations and under pressure. If you’re one who gets a buzz from testing yourself in mind and body, are committed to health and want to significantly contribute to society, law enforcement may be the perfect fit for your adventure of a lifetime.

There could never be enough heroes in our world, never enough genuine, caring, compassionate leaders dedicated to ensuring our safety and peace in our communities. If you are one of those extraordinary people who feel inspired by service, then we would like to do all we can to encourage and support you on the journey. If you’re considering a police foundations course, or law enforcement course, Anderson college has a program for you.

Take the “Anderson College Law Enforcement Career Discovery Quiz”

To learn more about our Law Enforcement / Police Foundations program, book a virtual appointment with an Admission Advisor today and let’s get you started!

Quick Links to Fuel Your Success!

We want to make sure you have what you need to succeed! Check out these reference links:

• Law Enforcement & Police Foundation Courses at Anderson College
• Qualities of a Good Law Enforcement Professional (careerprofiles.info)
• Beyond Policing – 7 Criminal Justice Career Options (andersoncollege.com)