how do I overcome the issue experience v. training

[wisconsin]

I reside in Wisconsin and have completed all of the Police recruit school requirements. I have done extremely well in all areas. Part-time positions are just as difficult to attain as full-time positions in my area.

I am a Reserves Police Officer and have military experience which is directly related to the law enforcement profession.

I continue to hear departments are only willing to make job offers to people who are already working in the profession as a sworn Police officer or Deputy and are transferring from other departments. I have been passed over for jobs soley upon this principal. If I were a sworn police officer of Deputy with a department this would make me unavailable to any competing departments as I am not willing to jump from department to department.

Becoming a member of this profession means everything to me!

Does anyone have any suggestions of how to overcome this obstacle and/or how to attain the experience prior to recieving the job offer?

Respectfully yours,

Brian in Wisconsin

[Charlie]

Brian--You make no mention of your level of experience so I am assuming that you have minimal experience right now.

Having said that--reserve experience is a good thing too even though fulltime experience would, obviously, be a lot better. I would suggest you get what you can out of your current position until you land a fulltime position somewhere. Attend ANY appropriate additional in-service training that you can whenever possible. (You can likely list your extra training on your resume or application). Working as a reserve sure is a lot better than someone with zero experience or no certification! ;D

I don't know what is available in your area but I would consider doing some research into the agencies you have interest in and find out their hiring qualifications. Everyone typically does not have the same requirements. Some want more college education than others or experience. Check some of the PD/SO web sites in your area if they have any published on the internet. A lot of departments typically post recruitment information. Where do you stand with the agencies you want to work for in this regard? Do you need more training? College hours or degree? What?

Bottom line, depending upon WHERE you apply and WHO you are applying with, it can be competitive especially at a larger agency that can offer more $$$ and benefits to their officers. Do your homework, get more education, training and keep an eye out for your next window of opportunity..... I've been in the biz for about 16-years all together and I am still getting the extra training or education whenever I can!

Charlie

[wisconsin]

Charlie,

Thank you very much for your words of encouragement. I already have a degree in Police Science and have finished at the top of my class, but I do want to go on to the level of attaining my master's. Your advice is greatly appreciated, especially from someone who is already working in the profession.

I will make additional efforts to follow up on your recommedations. If you come up with any additional information I will look forward to hearing it. ;D

Thanks again,

Brian