NCJ Number
177314
Date Published
1997
Length
175 pages
Annotation
This book focuses on proven, practical methods for police chiefs, sheriffs, and personnel managers to use in conducting background investigations of job applicants.
Abstract
The author first advises that applicant background investigation is crucial to the career path of most supervisors and to the effective operation of a police agency, because the quality of the persons hired determines the quality of the work performed by an agency. The quality of employees and their work in turn often rests on whether police managers support and ensure that an effective inquiry into an applicant's past is conducted. This book details the process of conducting a background investigation, as it alerts readers to common pitfalls in hiring procedures and background investigations, while describing proven procedures and methods for obtaining crucial information about an applicant's background. Twelve chapters provide information on reviewing applications and resumes, listening effectively, being alert to body language, recognizing deception, interviewing, checking references, obtaining sources of information, policies and procedures, and legal issues. Two appendixes contain a sample background investigation report and sample forms for background investigations.