Oral Interview Question

[Lucky1]

When they ask you to tell them about yourself, do they want you to respond with personal things or professional?

[TALLON]

They want you to summarize your personal, educational, professional and LE related experience.

e.g. I am originally from Bigville, USA...10 years ago I moved to smallville, where I live with my wife and 10 kids. I am employed by XYZ Co, and have been for the past 10 years where I serve as night clean-up boy. I have a masters degree in bulls**t from ABC University. I spend my free time reading, playing golf...etc. I have no official experience in LE, however in an effort to become better acquainted with your department I have gone on 3 ride-alongs with Deputy Smith and researched the town extensively (p.s. be prepared to speak about these things if you say it).

They basically want to see you speak...are you clear, are you scared to death. can you articulate your thoughts...etc.

My advice: Rehearse two things before the ORAL:
1. your opening "tell us about yourself" statement
2. your closing "is there anything else you would like us to know about you" statement

Good Luck

[Kenpokev]

Ditto:

Excellent advice from Tallon. Try to keep your speeches to 2 minutes +/-. Make direct eye contact with all board members. Breath mints before the interview. Hands on the table in front of you.

Tell us about yourself...

[danah]

do you know where i can pursue a masters in bulls**t? i am about to finish my BA in *%^%(%*^.

[dizza]

Have a friend or family member ask you various questions about yourself... biggest accomplishment, when you did something you thought later wasn't quite right, etc. Take your time thinking about a response, they want to see that you are thinking about it not reciting it. Always wait to be told to sit when entering the room. Show self confidence thoughout the interview, even on subjects that are talking about when you might of made a wrong decision. Do some research on the city/county for which you are applying. They usually will ask you some questions regarding something along those lines.

On my first couple of orals, I scored alright on them. But after those, I've gotten nothing but 95's up to 100's. Once you get a few under your belt, the rest will seem like a walk in the park.

ps. I was always told hands in your lap.

David

[Lucky1]

Thanks for all of the advice!

[TALLON]

Danah: The University of Connecticut