Where It All Begins:
Test Your Strengths
Applicant testing assesses candidates knowledge, skills, and abilities through standardized measures. Testing determines a candidate’s suitability to proceed through the application process and entry into the NC Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) program.
● Try to schedule a ride-along before the oral board review (scheduling one can take anywhere
from a couple of weeks to a couple of months, so plan accordingly!).
● Try to get to know some of the people from the department ahead of time. Request a tour of the
department, stop by the department to ask questions, or get introduced by your ride-along
partner.
● Get a haircut and be clean-shaven.
● Dress to impress. Wear a dark suit with a subtle tie (blue, black, or gray).
● Avoid using any strong colognes or perfumes.
● Research the department ahead of time and study the material found on the website.
● Learn the names of the chief of police & mayor, the mission/vision statements, department
goals, city demographics, and recent police-related news.
● Bring multiple copies of your resume, one for each interviewer (if applicable).
● Make flashcards of potential interview questions to help formulate concise answers.
● Practice answering the more difficult questions with someone (preferably somebody you don’t
know very well so it feels more life-like), and be sure to ask for feedback.
● Be on time, preferably 15 minutes early (you might have to fill out paperwork).
● Avoid trying to cram right before the interview. Arrive with a clear and open mind so that you
can focus on the questions being asked.
● Do not bring unnecessary distractions into the interview (such as phones)
● Try to relax before entering the interview room. Take 3 deep breaths.
● Be enthusiastic, make eye contact, give a firm handshake, and smile when greeted or spoken to.
● Try to address the interviewers by their name and rank if you can remember them.
● Be truthful. They are trained professionals and will find out if you are being deceptive.
● Ensure you answer the question thoroughly and answer each part of the question.
● Be confident (not to be confused with arrogant).
● Avoid looking down when answering questions (this can be viewed as deceptive).
● At the end, if time allows, ask the interviewers 2-3 pertinent questions about the department
(i.e. How many people are you looking to hire, what is the next step in the process, etc.).
● Before finishing up, they may ask if there is anything else you would like to add. This is your
opportunity to sell yourself and make a lasting final impression, as well as correct any answers
that you think you may have answered poorly.
● Be sure to thank them for their time with a firm handshake and wish them well.
