Gordon Graham
Category: Corrections
Gordon Graham here with Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Today I’d like to talk to all my friends in corrections about recruitment and selection practices.
Agency hiring managers are always hunting for good people. Unfortunately, they often meet applicants who view corrections jobs as a steppingstone to patrol.
One reason recruiting can be challenging is that some agencies over-romanticize patrol services. They reinforce the idea that being out in the field, encountering new and different situations every day, is more exciting and rewarding than working in a jail setting. Unfortunately, this can make jail careers appear less attractive and less important. I’m convinced that many applicants simply don’t understand the critical role correctional officers play in public safety.
Corrections is a field that requires patience, empathy, and resilience. Every day, correctional officers positively impact the lives of others. They serve as role models and counselors, helping to rehabilitate offenders. They guide inmates toward a better path, doing their best to reduce recidivism. Sometimes, they’re the only positive influence in an inmate’s life.
So, how can you ensure you’re recruiting folks who are motivated to do this job?
First, hiring managers must focus on position marketing. They should emphasize the agency is looking for dedicated individuals who understand and respect the corrections role. It’s not just about maintaining order and security within the facility. It’s also about changing lives and improving communities.
Corrections is a field that requires patience, empathy, and resilience. Every day, correctional officers positively impact the lives of others.
Second, it’s important to ask candidates why they want to work in corrections. Their answers should clarify their intentions. At the interview stage, it’s important to discern if the candidate is passionate about working in corrections or simply biding their time to move on to patrol.
Last, hiring managers should make it clear they’re not looking to fill temporary positions. Correctional officers make a real difference, and hiring managers need to sell that level of importance.
And that’s Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Until next time, Gordon Graham signing off.
