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Policing: Advice for beginners
For most Officers new to “the job”, it can be a daunting and confusing time. You will be told 10 different ways to do each and every task, and will be expected to keep everyone happy all the time. You will wonder at the fact that you spent 6 months at a Police Academy and yet you have not been taught some of the most basic things expected of you, nor made aware of some of the amazing and horrific things Police have to deal with.
There is no quick & easy advice for new Officers, but we'll try to relate some of the most important aspects that have been learnt the hard way.
Attending Incidents
Unless asked by your senior partner to deal with an incident, your first few weeks / months on the road should be dealt with by doing this - Mouth shut, eyes & ears open. That's it. The last thing you should be doing while your senior partner is dealing with a job is asking them minor questions, or telling him / her, "But in the Academy we were told this."
Additionally, if members of the public / suspects are in hearing distance, do NOT use first names to address your partner. Their rank or even "partner" are the correct address. It's about professionalism and not giving people ammunition to use against you.
However do not be afraid to ask a question at the right time, as there is nothing worse than someone fumbling through something when it could be done right and efficiently after one question. There is a time and a place for questions though like back in the vehicle or station.
Don’t assume anything, anytime. Keep your eyes and ears open, and constantly think “what if”. Too many times I saw Officers get their notebooks out as soon as they got out of their vehicles, which meant not only were their hands occupied, but they were concentrating on taking notes instead of assessing the situation.
Awareness
It doesn't matter where you are, or what you are doing. If you are outside of the Police Station, whether you are in your vehicle or on foot, by yourself or with 100 other Officers, stay aware of your surroundings! You should be looking around you every 3 seconds. You should be looking over your shoulder every 5 seconds or so. Whether you are inside a house or in the middle of a busy street...look around you. If you are working with a “switched-on” partner, then you should try to stand so that you can look behind your partner, and they can look behind you, thereby watching each other’s backs.
Colleagues
Telling tales, gossiping, or spreading stories about other Officers can be damaging to their careers. DO NOT DO IT. If you hear someone else gossiping about an Officer, ask them to stop. As Police Officers, you should deal with facts, and should not spread lies and half-truths about colleagues like old women cackling over a back fence. This is a pervasive problem in all jurisdictions.
Look after your partner. If you don't understand why he/she did something then ask them. Don't go running to the Station OIC just because you don’t agree with how your partner did something. Policing can be stressful enough as it is, so try not to make it worse by joining in the back-stabbing and unfair criticism that happens everywhere. Be supportive of your colleagues 100% of the time. You’ll realise how much it helps when that support is returned.
Communication
This section is extremely important.
When you speak into the Police radio, you must remember that there is another person at the other end trying to work out what you are saying. Before you use a radio, think about what you are going to say. Take a breath, and then key the microphone. Wait a full second before you start talking. It is very common for Officers to start talking before they key the microphone, which means the person at the other end has no idea who you are or what you just said. This can be compounded by background noise such as wind past windows, crowds, music, sirens or your own panting after wrestling someone down.
If you’re giving vehicle license plate details, telephone numbers, or spelling of a suspect’s name over the radio, do NOT just blurt everything out in one quick spiel, but break it up. Remember the person at the other end? They’re trying to write / type down what you are saying, so make it easier for them, and for yourself, as you won’t have to repeat what you just told them.
The easiest way to give out information like that is break it up into groups of three. The license plate 123.ABC will be given over the radio as “Queensland rego 123”...pause....”ABC.” The spelling of “Venderhoef” will be given as “I spell surname, Victor, Echo, November...pause.....Delta, Echo, Romeo.....pause....Hotel, Oscar...pause... Echo, Foxtrot, over.” Since not everything breaks up into three, use common sense, and break the last section into groups of two. Remember to give out information on the radio as if you were on the other end writing it down.
Don’t tie up the air-waves either. A short break every now and then should be used, such as between names, just in case someone is trying to get urgent assistance. If you have not finished giving all the information out, merely state “more to follow” at the end of your transmission and wait for the operator to tell you to continue. This permits the operator to finish what they are typing or writing, and allows other units to come up if they need urgent assistance.
One of the most-ignored areas by Police recruits during training is communicating with people. This is a shame as it is your biggest advantage in doing your job. I recall a few years back being called on duty into CIB as two of our Officers had a vehicle try to run them over after a Police pursuit. Fortunately they only suffered minor bruising, but the offender was lucky he wasn’t shot. Anyway, a number of General Duties were on the lookout for this bloke, and naturally enough he wasn’t home. He was hiding and I was given the investigation.
I rang his girlfriend. I identified myself, and she hung up on me. I rang her again an hour later and just talked to her. I wasn’t overbearing, or commanding, but I was talking to her as a person. After about 30 minutes of just talking with her, she put the offender on. I had made her comfortable enough to believe I wasn’t going to send the boys in to hurt her man. Then I spoke to him. I didn’t lie to him. I told him he would be arrested. I told him we had to speak to him about what happened. I didn’t lie, threat, nor did I promise him anything. I treated him with basic respect. What happened? His girlfriend drove him to the Police Station where he handed himself in. All because I spoke to him as a person and did not lie. The worst thing you can be accused of as a Police Officer is being a liar or being dishonest. Do NOT make the assumption that the criminal intelligence system of word of mouth is not as effective, if not more so, than our own.
The vast majority of times, just showing people basic respect will get the results you want. This does NOT mean you need to faun or grovel. You can still give people orders, directions etc and disagree with them, but do not show disrespect. Here’s another example.
My partner and I turned up at a Domestic job. As is commonly the case, the male was the loudest and most aggressive of the couple. I told him to come outside, while my partner stayed inside with the woman, (but we were both in sight of each other). The male kept threatening me and demanding to go inside. But even though he was verbally threatening me, there was no matching body language. He was angry, and he needed to vent. That’s human nature.
I didn’t grovel with him, or threaten him, but stated repeatedly what was happening. I told him, “There is no way I’m letting you back in there while you’re angry. We are required to separate both of you, and there’s a distinct possibility that we may take further action. But I’m not letting you back inside while you’re angry.”
This bloke was still threatening me and started “chesting” me. Again, even though my adrenalin had dumped, I could tell he was just venting. I knew what his emotions were. I knew he felt a need to show his anger, and I was the only target in front of him. He was not trying to hurt me, nor was his body language threatening. Although technically I could have arrested him for assaulting me, what was the point? My job was to calm him down, not fight him.
Eventually, we arrested him for assaulting his partner, but after my communication with him, he had calmed down enough to willingly be arrested. What struck me the most though, was when we got him into the watch house, he turned to me, put out his hand, and said, “Mate, you’re a better man than me. I’m sorry I was a prick. You treated me with respect. Thank you.”
You are going to ask them what happened, so is there any harm in letting the offender speak first? It ties them into a story. Not only that but if you ask them “Well come over here away from her for a bit and tell me your side,” this can act to defuse the situation very quickly as the offender feels like someone is listening to him without input from another party. Building rapport between parties does not mean you are mates; however it can often mean a job going more smoothly without people being hurt.
Don’t get me wrong. I’m one of the first to jump in swinging when the need arises, but for the vast majority of incidents, simply speaking to people will be all you need. Not only that but having a reputation as someone who will listen and give someone a go means, that when push comes to shove, generally no one will wonder why you had to use force when necessary.
Another subject in this area I wish to raise is manners. There is nothing more professional than an officer speaking with a victim or witness and referring to them as “Sir” or “Ma’am” in the street. Back at the station, you may refer to them by first name. Even if the lowest piece of filth is getting into your face, remember you are always being watched and recorded. “I will not tolerate that kind of language Sir. Continue using it and I will arrest you.” (Remember back up what you say, as there is nothing worse than a Constable telling someone several times to stop swearing. It diminishes you and also your credibility.) Likewise, be mindful to show manners to colleagues, even if they do not. Thank radio for answering you if protocols allow, they have a rough job like you and people notice and it is small things like saying ‘thanks radio’ which can see you have a pleasant shift. We are meant to be the leaders of society and enforce what is commonly held to be right. Present a professional and courteous manner.
Duty Belt
Firstly, and most importantly, wear it. I am still stunned to see Uniformed Officers walking around shopping centres at lunch time who are not wearing their belt kit. Do they honestly think they will never be asked to assist someone or to break up a fight? I don’t know if it is apathy, or laziness, but it is a dangerous habit.
As a Shift Supervisor, I was constantly amazed at how many times I would see junior Officers hanging items on the pistol grip of their sidearm. DO NOT DO IT! I recall speaking to one Officer about it when she was at a DV job with a Breath Testing Device hanging from her pistol, and she stared at me like I was speaking martian. Then she realised what I was talking about, and told me that she did it 30 minutes prior and forgot it was there. I’m sure that would not have made anyone feel better if she had been unable to draw her sidearm in time to defend herself or her partner.
And lastly, make sure your belt kit is comfortable, and you know exactly where everything is without having to look for it. You’ll have to wear that thing for hours on end, and during periods of stress you should be able to reach for your weapons, handcuffs, and torch without having to think about it. Be reasonable about what you have there also. Just out of the Academy it may be tempting to have the latest techno wizardry hanging from the belt. Be realistic, how often will you be using the kit and is there always a need to have it right there. Back injuries owing to a slouched seating position through a belt are not pleasant.
There are 3 things I recommend you do purchase though, that do not take up much room on your belt. The first is a multi-tool, such as Leatherman or Gerber. The second is a high-intensity torch, such as Surefire etc, and lastly, a mini-maglite, or small “admin” torch, for writing tickets etc. Those 3 items are probably the most used items on an Officer’s belt after the radio.
Fitness
You don't need to run a marathon to be a good Police Officer, but you WILL experience incidents where someone will want to fight you. Those of you who think your excellent communication skills or your speed with OC spray &/or Taser will get you out of fighting anyone should slap yourselves around the face a few times.
Most, if not all, fights end up on the ground, and wrestling is a very aerobic activity. The fitter person will win. Make sure it is you.
Fitness is also proven to make you healthier, and more alert. Fit Police also present a more professional image, which can make your job easier. Think about how you assess overweight Officers, and if you want to be thought of that way by the public you are dealing with. Get into a routine, as that is the easiest way to maintain your fitness. If you are working a rotating roster, then make your work-out program the same. At the end of a busy shift you may feel to weary to work-out, but believe me when I tell you, from first-hand experience, and from speaking with a lot of other Officers, that working out after your shift is more likely to work off your stress than sitting around drinking a couple of beers.
It will help you sleep too. I spent too many years suffering from lack of sleep due to critical incident- & managerial-induced stress. Don’t fall into that trap as it is very difficult to climb your way back out.
If you don’t know what exercise to do, I recommend you start with the basics:
- Jog / bicycle / row / swim for 40 minutes 3 times a week;
- Maximum repetitions of push ups, sit ups, and pull ups 3 times a week.
- Basic stretches every day for 5 minutes. Nothing contorted, just basic muscle stretches.
Learning
Look at one piece of Legislation or one Departmental Policy every single shift. Just one. That’s it. You don’t need to learn it verbatim, just learn it so as you understand it. Don't just rely on what your senior partner and colleagues tell you, but learn it for yourself. Policies and Legislation can burn you or protect you, depending on whether you know them or not. This also assists in career advancement such as promotional courses or transfer to specialist areas.
If you are curious as to what the Policy or Legislation is on a particular subject, don't only ask your colleagues, but research it yourself. The ability to worm your way through the intricate knots of legislation and policy will make you a much better Officer. You’d also be amazed at some of the Laws and Rules that none of your colleagues know.
Off duty.
The learning curve you will experience in the first twelve months is phenomenal. You will have to quickly adjust to a life you never had any inkling was out there. Dealing with offenders, victims, solicitors, other police, family and rosters are just some of the things that come your way. Add to that your exams, tests, certifications and assessments and it can become very overwhelming.
Get a hobby. The Police is not a hobby, no matter how much you have wanted it and love it. Find something to do outside of the job that allows you to become human again. Also it does not hurt to maintain contact or make further friends outside of the job. Trust me, you will make friends with the people you work with and from other agencies. Each of them will likely be friends for life! Your friend that is a carpenter though may help balance you and could help you drag your views out of the narrow focus of us and them.
Also do not brag about what you do, be proud and if someone asks, be honest but hold your tongue otherwise. There are any number of people who may try and use your position against you or for their benefit. Nothing looks worse than a bunch of Police Officers all whipping out badges, loudly boasting and acting the fool off duty. Maintain professionalism. You should also remember that what you do off duty can have massive effects on duty. That one night you get drunk and mouth off may well see repercussions beyond what a normal “Joe Blow” might see. Have fun, unwind, but remember be professional and maintain your credibility. Heads are like tins, the empty ones rattle the most.
Paperwork
Don't just do the bare minimum. Your entire career will be based on your ability to complete the myriad of paperwork (and computer work) that is the bane of every Officer. Do it all, and do it well. If you have messy handwriting, then slow down and tidy it up. Another aspect of paperwork is your notebook. TAKE NOTES!
Your notebook can be used to hang you or save you. Relevant notes such as clothing and the offenders haircut; whether they are shaven or not can be critical in court, especially when relying on CCTV. They may radically change their appearance, even down to losing weight before the matter goes to court. Should you also make a statement some time later, when it goes to court one of the best ways to ruin credibility I have seen is a simple set of questions that every solicitor learns.
“The statement was made several weeks later Constable.”
“Yes.”
“The conversation is true and correct?”
“Yes.”
“What was my client wearing?’
“… jeans and a top.”
“What colour?”
“I don’t recall.”
“Yet you recall the conversation exactly… nothing further.”
Performance
No matter what your career goal is, do not concentrate on one aspect of Policing in your first few years. Try to do everything. If you hate Traffic, then try to write at least one ticket per shift. If you love traffic, don't neglect the assault jobs and house breaks. Do everything to the best of your ability. If you become a reliable "all-rounder" then your performance reviews will look better, and your chance of getting onto that desired course, transfer, or promotional spot will be more easily achieved. GD's supervisors like "all-rounders", and they usually look after them.
Professionalism
Police are an image. Police are not individual people. You are presenting an image. Ensure that image is one of a professional Police Officer, and not some larrikin, hippy, or sloth who somehow got their hands on a Uniform. Shave. Brush your teeth. Iron your uniform. Polish your boots. Common sense really.
Also, learn to have an “on duty” persona. If you’re a person that likes to stand around telling jokes with your mates, that’s great. But do not do it in public when you are on duty. Not only does it look unprofessional, but you’re decreasing your concentration on being aware of your surroundings.
Police need to be actors. They need to pretend to be aggressive, assertive, caring, and friendly. I say that you need to pretend, because if you do not pretend, if you actually do feel these emotions, then that reduces your effectiveness in performing your duties. Any Officer who gets caught up in the emotions of the job will soon fall apart. It sounds callous, but you must be able to remove yourself from the emotions of an incident, or you will become less able to perform your duties. Also, if you just present a robotic blank stare, then victims and offenders will find it hard to open up to you. So pretend. The crooks are pretending most of the time. Most of them have a creeping dread of Police, which is only reinforced by a professional and well presented officer who knows their stuff and “looks the goods.”
Training
Apply for every single course that comes up. At the very least, it will simply provide you with more knowledge.
Seek out off-duty (and on-duty) opportunities to receive more training in firearms and defensive tactics. These skills may be required to save your life one day. Don't be satisfied with an annual qualification of "competent". Additionally, don’t assume that the training you received in the Academy is the best or only way to do your job. Seek out additional sources of information about Policing.
Witness Box
I was in the witness stand one day a few years ago, for a fairly complex Assault Police matter. The defence solicitor looked at me, rolled his eyes, and asked me if I could point out the offender. There were 2 persons sitting behind him, one of whom looked similar to my memory of the offender. But I wasn’t certain. I thought about pointing to the person who looked like the offender, just to “save” the case. But I said I couldn’t recognise the offender in Court. I honestly thought the case was about to be thrown out. But then the defense lawyer continued asking me questions, and not two minutes later the offender walked into the court room. The lawyer had tried to trick me, which is their job to a certain extent.
The lesson? Be honest. If you can not recall something, say so. If you do not recognise someone, say so. Be 100% honest in the witness stand. That is what is expected of you. No one, including Police, are expected to have photographic memory. That is why Police are issued notebooks. Be concise, don’t babble. Anything requiring more than a “yes” or “no” should be addressed to the Magistrate or Jury. It is actually a little disconcerting looking at 12 or more people staring at you while you’re trying to answer a question in court, but they are the people who will decide if they believe you or not.
I’ve given eveidence in Coronial Court, Magistrates Court, and Supreme Court. I was the main actor in an Aboriginal Death in Custody matter, and was labelled as a “credible witness” by the Coroner. I discovered the victims of a double-homicide, and established the Crime Scene, so you can imagine the extensive questioning of me in the Supreme Court, and the attentiveness of the Jury. (Yes, the offender was convicted)
And lastly, you must realise that you will NEVER know everything, so make yourself comfortable with the fact that you will always try to learn more.....
Good luck, and stay safe.
About the Author
Doug Nicholson served for over 9 years with the Northern Territory Police Force, during which time he worked in remote Aboriginal Communities, was a General Duties Shift Supervisor at the busiest Station in the jurisdiction and became a qualified Workplace Assessor and Trainer. He has travelled to the US for advanced training, as well as worked in both Afghanistan and Iraq as a Security contractor, and is now studying for a degree in Security, Terrorism, and Counter-Terrorism. He is the editor for Response Australia eMagazine, an online publication for Policing in Australia.
Doug can be contacted at editor@responseaustralia.net