Seeking Employment in Criminal Justice and Related Fields, Fourth Edition

• NCJ Number: 198726
• Author(s): J. Scott Harr J.D.; Karen M. Hess Ph.D.
• Date Published: 2003
• Length: 284 pages
• Sale Source: Wadsworth Publishing Co
• Publication Format: Book (Softbound)
• Publication Type: Overview Text
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This book discusses career opportunities throughout the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, the practice of law, courts, corrections, and related local, State, and Federal agencies, along with career opportunities within private security; promotions and the career ladder are discussed as well.

Abstract

In profiling the various job opportunities available in criminal justice and private security, the practical purpose of this book is to assist readers in identifying careers they may wish to pursue and in developing a strategy for entering that career. The book's first section presents a general overview of the world of work, followed by a discussion of career opportunities as first responders in law enforcement, public safety, and related fields. Career opportunities in courts and corrections as well as private security are also described. This first section concludes with an overview of the factors to consider when selecting a career. The second section of the book focuses on steps in preparing for the job search, with attention to physical fitness and testing, other tests that might be administered, desirable attributes to develop and present, and the resume. This section concludes with advice on how to prepare for the possibility of failure in initial job-seeking efforts and how to build upon and learn from such failures. Section Three provides detailed guidance on specific job-seeking strategies that address the application process (finding and applying for jobs); making a positive impression through appearance, communication, and attitude; and what to expect in various types of interviews. The concluding section of the book discusses how to succeed on the job once hired, including how to perform effectively during the probation period and ways to enhance chances for promotion. The final chapter addresses the practical issue of dealing with job loss and change and how to respond to such set-backs. Various learning exercises and instructional aids are included in each chapter. Chapter references, author and subject indexes, and appended International Association of Chiefs of Police Police Code of Conduct, ASIS Security Code of Ethics, resume worksheets, sample resumes, and cover letter and follow-up letter