Police Professionalism

Police Professionalism

By: Loren Hensley

Police officers have a very reputable job, meaning they must be professional at all times. The job of a police officer is to protect and to serve the public. Since most of their time is spent in the public eye, they are expected to maintain professional behavior. The first step in projecting their professionalism is their dress. They should be dressed neatly,

and according to the uniform regulations of their department. Appearances say a lot since that is the first thing the public sees. An officer that does not look like he is well- kept portrays to the people that he does not take his job seriously. Good hygiene is also an important part of an officer's personal appearance. An officer that is enthusiastic about his job and who wants to project that image should dress the part.

Attitude says a lot about a person as well. In law enforcement having a positive attitude is particularly important. When dealing with a perpetrator or victim, officers should be compassionate yet firm. Being respectful is a good way to get started. You can always escalate the amount of force used, depending on the situation. An officer must always project the image of being in control in order to be effective. If the first thing an officer does is wrestle a person to the ground it could be construed as an abuse of power, which thanks to the media, the public thinks law enforcement agencies do quite often. Police officers should always try to practice controlled authority at first approach, in other words, be firm but compassionate. Keep in mind that many of these people are depending on you to help them or solve a problem An officer's control of a situation also helps him gain the confidence and trust of the community which can also help the police with crime prevention. When you approach someone during an incident, explain to them why you perform actions, and answer their questions. Engaging the public in conversation helps to make the officer a part of the community and helps gain the confidence of the public and improves the image of the police in the community.

No matter where law enforcement officers are they should maintain their professionalism. For instance, it does not make a good impression on the public if an officer is off duty and out with his buddies at a bar getting drunk and belligerent. If other patrons know he's a police officer, it damages his reputation and public image as well as the department he works for. Police should also always be careful of what they say. You never know who could be listening. Perhaps a co-worker's wife stopped in at the department store for something