How to Answer: Have you ever faced a company policy you disagreed with but had to enforce anyway?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Correctional Officer job interview.
3. Have you ever faced a company policy you disagreed with but had to enforce anyway?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer would like to know if you have difficulty acting on orders you disagree with. Each prison has varying policies, and you may not agree with all of them. Explain to the interviewer how you feel about this type of situation and how you have handled it in the past. Avoid coming across as a disagreeable employee. Focus on the positive!
Written by Krista Wenz on February 10th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on your willingness to enforce all of the facility's policies, even when you don't agree with them. Explain that you understand why those policies are in place. You will stand out as an ideal candidate if you show the interviewer that you are an agreeable person and will follow orders.
Written by Krista Wenz on February 10th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying that you break company policy if you disagree with it. If you do not follow the policies and procedures of the job, the interviewer will decide that you may be a problematic employee who can cause liability to the organization.
Written by Krista Wenz on February 10th, 2022
Entry Level Example
"I have worked for companies in the past where I did not agree with the policies at all times. I chose to trust that my boss understood the long-term goals better than I did at that time. I plan to bring this attitude with me in my career as a correction officer. I am new to the industry and do not have all of the answers."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"Yes, I have faced policy that I do not agree with. I realize that I do not have to agree with a policy to enforce it. Policies are in place for a reason, and I will abide by them, despite my feelings or understanding of them."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced Example
"I've come to understand that the policies aren't my decision and that as a CO, my job is to enforce whatever policies are in place. If I disagree with policies that endanger officer safety, I tell my commanding officer about them. But at the end of the day, there are people higher up the chain of command who have more information than I do and a broader view. I have to trust that they're making the best decisions they can given the constraints they have. No matter what I think, it's my sworn duty to uphold and enforce the laws and regulations that we have on the books."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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