NCJ Number
223542
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 77 Issue: 7 Dated: July 2008 Pages: 13-19
Date Published
July 2008
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article reports on the author's recent study of the features of effective police leadership, which involved a survey of the command-level law enforcement officers attending the FBI National Academy (NA).
Abstract
The NA attendees identified a number of features of an effective law enforcement leader. First, effective leaders have a clear view of, work toward, and emulate organizational goals and objectives. Second, they recruit and retain employees who have the qualities needed to perform the tasks required to achieve the organization's mission. Third, effective leaders cultivate a cooperative relationship with the community as an essential partner in building public safety. In responding to the survey question regarding whether leaders are born or made, NA attendees recognized both the importance of innate leadership traits and skills as well as the pursuit of education, training, experiences, opportunities, and guidance from experienced leaders. The survey also questioned NA attendees on their views of important traits and habits of leaders. Their responses focused on honesty, integrity, trustworthiness, communication and listening skills, concern for the emotional well-being of coworkers, fairness, and courage in making needed changes in the face of resistance. Other features of leadership mentioned by respondents are the acceptance of responsibility for mistakes, basing decisions on research and study, and allowing subordinates to handle duties commensurate with their skills and level of authority. Respondents also noted some qualities that undermine effective leadership. These include being motivated by self-interest; focusing on the power, prestige, and money associated with their office; a lack of interpersonal skills and concern for others; and a failure to lead by example. 6 notes