A 911 Dispatcher must react appropriately under pressure. Give me an example of a time when you had to make a split second decision.

"If I were hired, I feel that I would compliment your department in a few significant ways. First - I am a fast learner and I already bring 6 years' experience in 911 dispatch. The time to train me will be reduced. Also, I bring experience in training new hires and would be happy to jump in when it comes to on-boarding individuals new to their dispatch career."

Being able to make quick decisions and think fast on your feet using sound logic sets top-notch dispatchers out from the crowd. We all make a lot of choices every day, so start by telling the interviewer that you make a lot of quick decisions each day. Next, be prepared with a solid example that will be sure to impress. Be sure to outline the situation, the task, the actions that you took, and then speak about the result.

"Last month, my senior dispatcher quit on the spot leaving all responsibility on me during the middle of a busy shift. It was uncomfortable, but I knew I had to get my head in the game. I took charge of the floor, reassuring the other fifteen dispatchers that things would go on as usual. I delegated tasks as needed. We finished our shift under a lot of pressure, but everyone willingly did what they needed to reach the finish line until the next shift of dispatchers arrived. Shortly after this incident, I took a promotion as a senior dispatcher."