NCJ Number
227905
Journal
THE POLICE CHIEF Volume: 76 Issue: 6 Dated: June 2009 Pages: 74,76
Date Published
June 2009
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This article presents several tips for providing effective police agency leadership during difficult budget times.
Abstract
Chief executives may not be able to control the external forces of a financial crisis and the resulting global economic downturn but they can control their outlook and model their behavior to inspire the organizations they lead. Sixteen tips presented on effective agency leadership during difficult times include: convey hope, be in touch, stay connected to the community, prevent a siege or bunker mentality, reward creativity and innovation, look ahead for opportunities, make time for planning, be a buffer, build the agency's infrastructure, refocus the mission, stick to the basics, combine and reduce, do not punish the public, be plain spoken, make time to energize, and do not go it alone. The core values of policing should be permitted to continue regardless of the number of employees, the variety of programs, or the level of funding.