Have you ever wondered how to submit a standout application to join the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department or how to enter the Training Academy with a competitive edge?
Major Brian Sanders is commander of CMPD’s Recruitment and Training Bureau. Here, he shares what it really takes to succeed – from the values CMPD looks for in applicants to the support recruits receive during training.
Whether you’re fresh out of school, transitioning from the military or simply ready for a new challenge, Major Sanders’ insights offer a clear look at how to stand out and serve with purpose.
What are the most important qualities you look for in potential CMPD recruits?
I look for four things:
- Integrity. Mistakes are part of life, but hiding those mistakes is a dealbreaker. No one is perfect, nor do we expect them to be. Just be open and honest.
- Self-discipline. Be prepared and stay dedicated to doing what’s needed to be the best version of yourself when no one is looking.
- Work ethic. This is a demanding profession, and it comes with the incredible reward of being there for those who need help.
- Selflessness. Set aside the “I” for the service of others.
What sets a great candidate apart during recruitment?
Candidates who demonstrate good communications skills, discipline, punctuality, responsiveness and ability to work within a structured environment stand out during the application process.
What are some common misconceptions about what it takes to become a CMPD officer?
There are two we hear regularly:
- “They’ll never get to my application.” Our application process is streamlined and efficient. We see every application very quickly after it’s submitted.
- “It will take a long time to process my application.” In many cases, the delays we experience are due to slow response times from applicants. Our goal is to get you through the process efficiently. Responding quickly when asked for documentation only you can provide helps keep things moving.
How do you handle the challenge of recruiting in a large, diverse city with many different communities and needs?
Charlotte is a highly respected, nationally known city with a population representative of not only the entire nation but the whole world. Because of the city’s reputation, we regularly see applicants with diverse experiences and backgrounds.
It’s important to us to represent the communities we serve, so we recruit locally and nationally on college campuses and military bases, at job fairs and via social media. In addition, we offer salary incentives for recruits who speak additional languages. We do this not only to attract a diverse workforce, but we also to be able to connect with all of the people who live and work in our great city.
What are the biggest hurdles recruits face during the application process?
One of the biggest hurdles potential recruits face is to admit to their past mistakes. This can be an immediate disqualification if an applicant is not fully transparent with a past mistake or behavior.
Making bad decisions or mistakes in the past is not necessarily a reason for disqualification. I encourage anyone interested to speak to an officer or a member of our recruitment team.
What are the physical, mental and emotional qualities that make a successful recruit?
Applicants are not disqualified from the hiring process due to a lack of physical fitness. However, physical fitness is a significant portion of the Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) program. It is very strenuous and recruits must meet state standards to graduate. This is one of the main areas where applicants fail to prepare before the BLET program.
The Academy is demanding and requires good moral character, dedication, discipline and a willingness to push yourself through adversity. A recruit who possesses emotional intelligence, is willing to be a part of a team and can accept teaching with humility and respect will have a high likelihood of success.
In short, see the overall picture! The hard work – physically, mentally and academically – is all to prepare you to help those who need you. Face challenges now so you can be there for someone later.
How does the department support recruits through training, especially those who come from non-law enforcement backgrounds?
CMPD has the best trainers, facilities and equipment. We train all recruits as if they have little to no experience, so the only hurdle is their own determination and willingness to learn and work through challenges. We provide resources, expert staff with backgrounds in education and additional training in all areas where recruits might need further assistance.
We are committed to you if you commit to this profession!
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