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Police Chief: How to Attain and Succeed in this Critical Position

NCJ Number
232965
Author(s)
Daniel S. McDevitt, B.S., M.S.; Mark W. Field, B.S., M.P.A.
Date Published
2010
Length
313 pages
Annotation
This book provides a thorough overview of the realities of the position of Chief of Police, and provides practical, common sense advice for preparing oneself for the position, successfully negotiating the application and screening process, and competing in various selection procedures.
Abstract
Literature on becoming a police chief or a police chief wanting to advance to a better job is hard to come by. Most police chief aspirants are ill-prepared to compete for jobs outside their agencies. The key is preparation and planning which is the focus of this book. It examines contemporary issues such as career positioning, compensation, negotiating, employment agreements, relocation practices, use of executive search consultants, the importance of image, and other elements related to a successful police chief job search. It is an attempt to bring both the potential and practicing police chief up-to-date with the law enforcement executive job market and provide tips that will help them compete for the job they are seeking. Chapter topics include advice on taking control of the police department and setting the agenda in place, emphasizing the extreme importance of role modeling the behavior that the chief expects of department personnel, the requirements for a productive relationship with the command staff, exploring the multifaceted relationship a chief has with his employees, and guidelines for managing relations with collective bargaining units, schools and businesses, and the various elements of the community. This resource will be invaluable to all prospective and current Chiefs of Police, law enforcement professionals, policymakers, and police academics. Appendixes 1-13 and index