Multiple B/I's at once - a bad thing?

[Greaser]

I have two agencies that are wanting to do backgrounds on me at the same time. (This is for a reserve position)

One agency I really want to work with and they have started the B/I.

The other agency is really doing me a favor and doing the B/I just so I can be sponsored for the academy coming up. From there if I do well I will go through the rest of the processes.

The challenge in my area is very few departments run reserve academies where you get state certified. Once you have the certification then most departments that have reserves are interested in talking to you.

My question is: is having 2 or 3 departments doing B/I's at the same thing a bad thing? I really want to go to the academy this spring. But I don't want to blow it. I am afraid that either agency would stop the B/I with the mind set that they are just wasting resources if I go with the other department.

But I don't want to put all my eggs in one basket since academies are few and far between.

I even have a 3rd who wants to send me through the process. (In my area alot of agencies looking for reserves don't do the normal written, oral, physical testing and jump right to the background.)

[Kimble]

My question is: is having 2 or 3 departments doing B/I's at the same thing a bad thing?

Not unless you want to keep from having multiple offers (or are afraid one will uncover something the others won't ;) ). Departments have to conduct BIs for their own security (whether they want to spend the $ and resources or not), and often realize that candidates apply to more than one agency. If they ask if you've applied elsewhere, you need to tell them. Otherwise, it shouldn't be a problem.

[Greaser]

I disclosed I applied else where when asked. I am not worried about them "sharing" information since I have nothing to hide.

I guess I will submit my second B/I today. Unless other have different opinions.

[not5150]

I've known many academy attendees/graduates to go through multiple backgrounds at once. You have to apply to many departments at once, to have a decent chance of being hired.

All police/sheriffs departments know this, and understand.

[Greaser]

Sweet thanks!