Police Resume Requirement: Establish the value that you bring
Having designed hundreds of resumes for law enforcement and police applicants, I know that this career marketing tool only has a short amount of time, and space, to communicate value to a reader.
The other day, a police applicant asked me what I thought was the most important thing his resume needed. Many "must haves" sprinted through my mind; however, one always tops the list: VALUE.
It is essential that resumes exhibit value.
Score of my clients know that they would make excellent police officers and have plenty of volunteer work and extra training; however, many are unable to articulate and link personal skill sets and unique strengths to the police competencies. Thorough analysis and comprehensive examination are required to identify what sets one apart.
What separates you from another police applicant who has similar experience or education?
What are you best known for?
What is the biggest return on investment that a police service will get from hiring you?
What have you achieved during your career or education?
Answering these questions will begin to shape a value proposition. A branding statement can help to introduce an applicant’s unique value to the recruiter.
Saying you are good at something and actually providing proof of skill are two different things. Begin with the basics and then identify specific achievements to wow the reader. Your resume should be measurable and memorable.