NCJ Number
198335
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 69 Issue: 12 Dated: December 2002 Pages: 33-36
Date Published
December 2002
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article discusses leadership advancement and career enhancement in law enforcement.
Abstract
Focusing on the development of career goals in law enforcement, this article addresses the realities of leadership advancement and career enhancement for law enforcement officials. Describing the Vision, Image, Results, Exposure, and Stress (VIRES) system, the author details the ways in which the use of VIRES will enable law enforcement officials to earn career advancement. Focusing on Vision or Destination, the author discusses the importance of written career visions and/or destinations to enable law enforcement officials to remain focused on their long-term goals. Addressing Image or Perceptions, the author suggests focusing on the images and perceptions held by one’s peers, subordinates, and coworkers and improving and changing these when necessary. Arguing for the importance of developing a resume and amending it in detail at the end of each quarter, the author maintains that Results or Performance and Productivity need to be actively maintained by law enforcement officials seeking career advancement. Highlighting Exposure or Visibility, the author describes various ways to increase one’s visibility in order to foster a positive, high profile in the eyes of one’s superiors. And, discussing Stress or Frustration, the author suggests taking the time to understand the wants, needs, and expectation of one’s peers and co-workers in order to encourage a stress-free, productive work environment. Concluding, the author argues that contemplating, writing, and revising a career plan is an important step in securing leadership advancement and career enhancement within the law enforcement profession.