Key qualities of a police officer

Starting a career in the police can be one of the best things you’ll ever do. You’ll be able to make a real difference in your community, reducing crimes and making people safer. But being a police officer isn’t for everyone – it’s one of the most challenging careers you can choose, being physically, mentally and emotionally demanding.

You should consider whether you: 

• Can deal with complex and sensitive cases, requiring clear reasoning and evidence gathering, evaluating information and recording details
• Are able to think on your feet – problem-solving and responding to new challenges
• Are willing to develop new skills, as data and technology become ever more important to policing
• Are able to understand, retain and explain facts and procedures
• Work well with colleagues as part of an effective team in a disciplined organisation
• Can communicate well, both written and verbally 
• Build relationships easily, respect other people and appreciate views from communities across the region
• Have great people skills, remaining calm and patient with members of the public, particularly in stressful or volatile situations
• Can handle traumatic situations and be able to communicate information sensitively
• Can make decisions, report situations to others and use your police powers appropriately
• Are able to give clear and accurate evidence in court
• Are willing to work shifts, nights and weekends (including public holidays)
• Are able to be flexible about where you work - you might not work in your preferred location
• Are reasonably fit and strong, with the ability to run, walk reasonable distances and stand for reasonable periods, to keep you and others safe
• Can sit for reasonable periods, to write, read, use the telephone and to use or learn to use IT
• Can exercise reasonable physical force in restraint and retention in custody
• Are able to combine your studies with being a full-time police officer by completing your assignments on time throughout your degree.

You’ll receive training and support throughout your career to help you manage the demands of policing, but it’s important to be sure that becoming a police officer is right for you.