Effective communication is crucial for a police officer. As part of the hiring process, you'll face an oral exam, also known as the oral boards or oral interview
Key Information About the Oral Police Exam
Timing of the Oral Exam
You will typically take the oral exam after passing both the written test and the physical agility assessment.
Purpose of the Oral Exam
The oral exam evaluates various skills, including:
- Verbal comprehension
- Attention to detail
- Independent reasoning
- Decision-making
- Interpersonal skills
- How you express yourself
Importance of Your Responses
In the oral exam, everything matters. You will be judged on:
- How you enter the room
- How you address the interviewers
- Your tone of voice
- Body language
- Eye contact
- Overall presentation
Number of Interviewers
The exam may be conducted by a single department representative or a panel of several people.
Exam Format
There is no standard oral exam, as each department has its own format and questions. Generally, questions will cover your background, personality, job qualifications, and decision-making abilities through hypothetical scenarios.
Common Questions
While there are no standard questions, you might be asked:
- To describe yourself
- Why you want to be a police officer
- Your long-term career goals
- Why you think you should be hired
It's important to provide thoughtful and honest answers.
Trick Questions
The questions are not designed to trick you but to reveal your character and suitability for the role. You might be asked about:
- Your biggest weaknesses
- How you handled past problems
- How you would deal with ethical dilemmas, such as witnessing another officer committing a crime or issuing a ticket to a friend or family member
Tips for Success
- Preparation: Practice answering common types of questions, research the department you’re applying to, and ensure you present yourself well through attire and grooming.
- Listening: Pay close attention to each question and answer fully and honestly.
- Communication: Use a calm, even tone of voice, and express yourself clearly and logically.