30 Police Dispatcher Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Police Dispatcher interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. A Police Dispatcher must know the region in which they operate. How strong is your geographic knowledge?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants assurance that you are confident in your knowledge of the surrounding areas. As a Police Dispatcher, you must have strong geographical knowledge and excellent recall skills. Talk about the time that you have spent becoming familiar with the region. The hiring authority may also have geographic testing available, so it's great to offer your participation in any trial they may want to conduct.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"I have a strong ability to recall information that I set out to learn. I am also adept in directions, having grown up in the country on a farm. I believe this background will be a significant bonus when training as a Police Dispatcher."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Answer Example
"I have lived here for the past 13 years and have dispatched in this region for the past five years. My geographical knowledge is advanced. If you would like, I am happy to take any geographic tests you may need."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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2. Talk about one weakness, as it relates to your work as a Police Dispatcher. How will you work to improve this weakness?
How to Answer
Everyone has weaknesses! The better you answer this question, the more self-aware you appear. Your self-awareness will show the interviewer that you will come to the job, ready and willing to learn. Choose a weakness that is not a core skill for your success as a Police Dispatcher. For instance, a Police Dispatcher should not say that they struggle with active listening. You can be candid in your answer, recognizing that you aren't great at something and acknowledging your need to improve. Be sure to have an action plan in place for improving on this weakness.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"My biggest weakness at this point is my lack of dispatch experience, which may translate to hesitation at first. I am an attentive person, and I like to jump into a situation, but only when I feel competent. I have already begun studying topics such as criminal law and have brushed up on my T-CPR knowledge, another skill I will need to know by heart when working in dispatch. I suspect that this hesitation will dissipate quickly, with further training and exposure to the job."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Answer Example
"One weakness, as it relates to my work as a Police Dispatcher, is my tendency to speed up my speech when I want to move faster towards a resolution for the caller. My current supervisor presented this feedback to me a few months ago, and I have been consciously working to improve on this by slowing my speech and being more methodical with my questions while on a call. I appreciate receiving this type of feedback as it allows me to grow in my career and better help others."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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3. As a Police Dispatcher, you will be on the phone for the majority of your shift. How do you feel about this?
How to Answer
A Police Dispatcher can take multiple calls in an hour, and work 12 hour + shifts, depending on their region. The hiring authority wants to know that you are up for the challenge of being on the phone for the majority of your day. If you already have exposure to this type of environment, assure the interviewer that you understand the constraints present in the role. If you are new to your career as a Police Dispatcher, discuss what you have done, and will do, to ensure resilience.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"I am accustomed to sitting for long periods, from my time in university to the dispatcher training that I just completed. I believe that the fast pace of the job, along with the fact that no day is the same, will keep me excited and motivated."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I have worked in incredibly fast-paced dispatch environments when walking away from the phone is not an option, often for hours at a time. I come prepared with a full understanding of the jobs' expectations as well as physical requirements."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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4. How would you handle a call from a panicked person who was speaking unintelligibly?
How to Answer
Police Dispatchers are often in communication with people who are having a very stressful time. This stress can cause people to panic and not think or speak clearly. Some examples could include the caller speaking a language you do not know, or a caller suddenly unable to remember important details such as their location. Walk the interviewer through the steps that you would take if you were on a call with someone speaking in a way that you could not understand.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"If I had a call from a panicked person who was speaking unintelligibly, I would calmly ask them to slow down. Then, I would guide the conversation by asking pointed questions such as 'What is your name?' and 'Are you hurt?' or 'Is this an emergency?' By getting yes and no answers, it will help the caller to catch their breath and provide me with the foundational responses that I need to dispatch assistance correctly."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I recently had a caller who was speaking very quickly in another language that I could not decipher. After asking them a couple of questions in English, it was clear that they were upset and found it easier to speak in their native tongue while in duress. I asked, 'what language?' a straightforward question that was simple for the caller to answer. Once I was able to distinguish the language they were speaking, I was able to transfer to the call to a dispatcher who spoke their language. When a caller is panicked, it is entirely up to me to break down the barriers of communication and get them the assistance they need."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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5. How familiar are you with criminal law in our region?
How to Answer
Depending on the region where you apply, you may be required to have a background in criminal justice and law. Speak openly with the hiring authority regarding your level of knowledge when it comes to the law. Be honest and show a willingness to learn in your role as a Police Dispatcher.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"As a recent graduate from the Criminology program, I have a strong overview of criminal law. With that said, I have room to grow when it comes to the law in our specific region. Do you have any recommendations regarding training? I want to join in this role with the utmost knowledge."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I have received a great amount of training during my dispatch career; however, there is always more to learn since criminal law is always changing. Most important to me, while growing my dispatch skills, is my ability to handle a range of situations with utmost care and poise. I am eager to take any training you offer and recommend."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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6. What has been your greatest accomplishment as a Police Dispatcher, so far?
How to Answer
Accomplishing something at work, big or small, is a highly motivating subject. Talk to the interviewer about what your proudest career accomplishment has been so far, and why. Be sure to take pride in your answer, showing the hiring authority that you take your work seriously.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"The greatest accomplishment I have had so far is graduating with my degree in criminal justice as an honors student while still working part-time as a volunteer dispatcher. This achievement showed me that I could dedicate myself to my career and reach the goals that I set for myself. It felt great to accomplish so much and earn recognition for my educational dedication."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I have many career accomplishments that make me proud. Overall, I would say that my greatest work accomplishment is the positive reputation that I have in this industry. My biggest accomplishment as a Police Dispatcher would be summed up by all of the children that I have been able to help. I have a deep level of compassion for children who are in scary situations, so every time I can assist a minor, I feel an even deeper sense of accomplishment."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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7. While on shift, how often do you create alternate scenarios to help you adjust to changing situations?
How to Answer
Police Dispatchers must be able to problem-solve and think outside the box when it comes to changing situations. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to create a variety of potential scenarios. Show that you are willing and able to pivot wisely, being fully prepared to react calmly and professionally to any changing situation.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"I feel that it is crucial to create alternative scenarios in all situations. One cannot guess what will happen in the end, so it is great to prepare for all possible outcomes. With a background in competitive sports, this approach rings very true for me. For instance, as the team captain of my soccer team, I would have to anticipate what my competitors' next move would be. I will apply these same methodologies in my career as a Police Dispatcher."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"It's important in emergencies to have premeditated contingency plans. It removes uncertainty in the heat of the moment and will better prepare everyone to adapt if a problem should arise. As a Police Dispatcher, I am ready to adapt at all times. This adaption is a necessary skill in our line of work. I must be ready to pivot when the demand comes."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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8. What do you believe to be the most essential quality of a Police Dispatcher?
How to Answer
There are many essential qualities in a skilled Police Dispatcher; however, the interviewer would like to know what qualities you value the most. Be sure to support your response by including information as to why you feel your listed quality is the most essential. Lastly, be sure to express to the interviewer that you possess, or are working on building up that particular quality.
Some critical skills include:
- Strong level of integrity
- Computer savvy
- Ability to follow instructions and process
- A remarkable memory
- Exceptional listening skills
- Steady typing skills/speed
- Ability to filter through multiple sound sources
- Clear verbal communicator/easy to understand
- Emotional control
- Trustworthy judgment
- High level of compassion
- Ability to multi-task
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"I feel that the most important skill of a Police Dispatcher is to be able to remain calm through a stressful situation. Remaining calm and level headed are of utmost necessity when someone has called in an emergency. I have a strong track record of being able to do this during practice calls, and have often been recognized by my trainers and peers for being very collected under pressure."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"My years of experience as a Police Dispatcher has revealed to me that the most important skill a dispatcher should possess is the ability to decipher multiple sounds and events at one time. It's cognitive multi-tasking, in a sense. This skill is one that I have worked on building up over the past four years, and has helped me to be much better in my work every day."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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9. After each call, how do you evaluate your performance?
How to Answer
As a Police Dispatcher, being able to look critically at your performance is a critical skill to have. How do you keep yourself in check for strong performance? Perhaps you are open to self-development and improvement, or maybe you ask for feedback from your leader regularly.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"I believe that feedback from more experienced dispatchers is the key to ensuring strong performance every time. After each day for my first 30 days, I will request feedback. I want to learn all that I can to become the best Police Dispatcher that I can be."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I evaluate myself after every emergency call, especially after handling unique situations or high-stress calls. After hanging up, I will check with myself on how I feel about my performance. If there is a situation where I felt rusty or unsure, I will write it down and revisit it at the end of the day. Even after 12 years in this industry, I am open to feedback and will often ask other dispatchers how they would have handled a call differently. In unusual or high-stress calls, it is incredibly important to debrief very soon after the call. This debriefing helps keep me in check and absorb any methods for improvement."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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10. Describe a job where you've provided service to a wide variety of people from diverse racial, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds.
How to Answer
In the United States, the 911 system receives about 240 million calls per year. As a Police Dispatcher, you must be able to collaborate with a significant number of people in a day. Call volumes are high, and everyone on the other end of the call has their own unique story. Be sure to give specific examples and talk about your overall dispatch experience. Let the hiring manager know that you, in no way, discriminate on the job.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"Before I attended University, I worked as a part-time volunteer with our local homeless shelter. In that role, I encountered a diverse range of individuals. I embrace diversity and welcome people from all backgrounds."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I have worked as a Police Dispatcher for many years, facing a huge range of situations. Every call is different, and I am well accustomed to adapting to each situation. The level of help or service that I offer has never wavered depending on race, culture, or social standing. The diverse range of people that I come across every day certainly keeps me sharp, and aware of the varying needs of others."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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11. Can you stand above pressure and make calm, rational decisions in the wake of an emergency?
How to Answer
As a Police Dispatcher, many of the calls you take will be non-emergency situations, simply helping people in confusing but not life-threatening situations. When you do receive an emergency call, you must be ready to take action and dispatch the appropriate police teams quickly and without hesitation.
The hiring authority needs to know that you can stand up to the pressure, and make rational decisions for others when they are unable to do so for themselves. If you have an example of a time when you stood up to this type of pressure, be sure to tell the story.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"I can rise above intense pressure in the wake of stress or an emergency, and continue to make rational decisions. I have always been a level headed person, and I recently started to practice stoicism, an ancient philosophy based on facing hardship without altering behavior. While a full-time student, I also worked part-time and spent time volunteering. My workload was intense; however, I never allow myself to feel overwhelmed to the point of impacting others or the outcome of my goals."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"As a Police Dispatcher for the past eleven years, I have come across a significant variety of situations and people who handle stress differently. I have never lost my cool on a call and always remain the one in control. The more controlled I am, the more impact I can have on getting people through challenging situations as quickly as possible. I have complete confidence in my ability to make calm, rational decisions at all times."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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12. Why are you the best Police Dispatcher for us?
How to Answer
Speaking highly about yourself in an interview can be tough to do, but this is your time to shine! Which characteristics and career accomplishments have made you a stand-out Police Dispatcher? Perhaps you have received some merit awards or have been received specialized training in your most recent position. There is nobody like you, and now you need to express that to the interviewer.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"I feel that I am the best Police Dispatcher for you because, in addition to my recent background as a former EMT, I also have a diploma in Criminal Justice. I have many transferable skills to bring to this role and, as a former first responder, will bring a full and unique perspective to the job."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Answer Example
"I am the best candidate for your Police Dispatcher role because I have the right background, education, and experience. I know that I can jump right in and get going with very little training time. I have received accolades for my quick-thinking and also bring recent Diversity and Inclusion training, ensuring that my approach compliments your departments' most recent diversity efforts."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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13. When have you shown great integrity at work?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know about a time when you have shown high levels of integrity on the job. We display integrity through honesty and consistent moral values. Talk to the interviewer about the ways that you show your integrity in the workplace.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"I show integrity every day by being my true self. The 'me' that you see in this interview is the same version that my family and friends get. I am an honest and genuine person, and I am eager to take this integrity to work as a Police Dispatcher."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Answer Example
"In my last position, I was responsible for the cash deposit daily. There was never a discrepancy, in the four years that I worked there. I best show my integrity by being a consistently reliable employee. In my current role as a Police Dispatcher, I am sure always to do the right thing, giving my best to every call that I take."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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14. Do you have any diversity training experience? Talk about the ways that you embrace diversity in the workplace.
How to Answer
As a Police Dispatcher, you will come across a broad range of people and needs every day. There is training available to you, ensuring that you bring the utmost compassion and understanding with you to your job every day. If you do not have diversity training, but you do have exposure to a lot of diverse environments, you can mention this as well.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"Although I do not have formal diversity training experience, while in university, I was part of the school's community's Diversity and Inclusion Club. Our group held a variety of celebrations for unrepresented parties and helped the student body to learn about people outside of their own culture. Rest assured, I would come to this role with total openness to others and their unique needs."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Answer Example
"Recently, our department granted us the opportunity to take a First Responders Sensitivity and Diversity Training. I was thrilled to be included. In this two-day training, I learned a lot about other cultures, backgrounds, and religions. My eyes opened to factors that greatly impact how a person would respond in an emergency. This training was valuable, and I am eager to apply my new knowledge to this Police Dispatcher role."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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15. Do you consider yourself a persuasive person?
How to Answer
Part of being an excellent communicator is also having the power of persuasion when necessary. There is a difference between persuasion and debating - or even convincing. Persuasion is used when you want to influence someone rather than tell them that they are wrong, and you are right.
The power of persuasion is essential when working in an emotionally driven environment, such as being a Police Dispatcher. It is also a valuable skill when you want to gain momentum with your coworkers.
It is not a negative thing to be persuasive. Talk to the interviewer about whether or not you consider yourself to be a persuasive individual, and why.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"As a university student, persuasion was in everything that I did. For instance, I needed to gain buy-in from my fellow students when it came to pitching the angle of a group project. I spent much of my days making statements of persuasion while writing term papers, as well."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Answer Example
"Persuasion is a key skill of an effective leader and communicator, in my opinion. Have you ever read the book, 'Pre-Suasion' by Robert Cialdini? He speaks of the science in persuasion and that there are significant moves to be made before ever asking someone to do something on your behalf. This book has greatly influenced how I use persuasion when taking high-stakes dispatch calls."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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16. Are you willing to learn the rules of the FCC in regards to frequency use?
How to Answer
Depending on the region where you work, you may be required to comply with the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) when it comes to the frequency on which police radios operate. The interviewer wants to see a willingness to learn, and comply with, the rules surrounding radio use. Of course, you want to sound agreeable and eager in your response. If you are familiar with policy around the FCC, be sure to express this.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"I am familiar with the FCC and fully understand why we must have regulations and policies surrounding police communication and radio use. I have already started to dive into some of the information provided on the FCC website and will continue to keep myself educated."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Answer Example
"I have worked in police dispatch for eight years and am very familiar with FCC requirements and compliance. I am more than willing to continue abiding by these regulations and will commit to staying up to date on FCC changes."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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17. What advice would you give to a fellow dispatcher who was stressed out?
How to Answer
Being able to handle stress is a fantastic skill, but being able to talk your colleagues off the ledge during their peak times of stress is an entirely different skill. Discuss with the interviewer what you would say or do to help a coworker cope with the stress of dispatch work. Be sure to show smarts, empathy, and a transparent methodology for stress-management.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"I would tell my colleague that talking it out can help a lot. I think that if something is bothering you, you should talk to a manager or supervisor as soon as possible. Stress can become elevated when a situation is allowed to brew and grow."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Answer Example
"I track my stressors and then visit them regularly. I will write them down on a note in my phone and then at the end of the day, or the week; I will try to track the regular offenders. Once I can pinpoint the stressors that occur too regularly, I make a plan to eliminate or at least alleviate them. If I had a colleague who was stressed out, I would share that method with them and help them to implement it if they were interested."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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18. A Police Dispatcher must react appropriately under pressure. Give me an example of a time when you had to make a split second decision.
How to Answer
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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"As a university student, split-second decisions happen often! I make split-second decisions when resolving matters during group projects, when project deadlines are changed, or when I need to make strategic moves related to my course load. I believe I have become a much stronger problem solver because of these situations and look forward to applying these skills to my role as a Police Dispatcher."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Answer Example
"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."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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19. A Police Dispatcher must pay exceptional attention to the small details. How would your co-workers describe your attention to detail?
How to Answer
Delivering strong attention to detail is incredibly important as a Police Dispatcher. Especially when you are operating under potentially high-stress scenarios. It is always best to support your reply with a real-life example. Talk to the interviewer about your level of attentiveness when it comes to details on the job. If you are new to your career, you can lean on your experiences in school, in competitive sports, or during your volunteer work.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"I can't speak for my colleagues as I am new to my career; however, my professors would say that I have above average attention to detail. I make mistakes, but I usually catch them before passing my work on to the intended recipient. I fully understand the importance of 100% accuracy in a Police Dispatch career and am prepared to meet those expectations."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Answer Example
"My co-workers would describe my attention to detail as very strong. I can very easily point out spelling discrepancies in communication and will notice the small things. I think big-picture as well but have always had a knack for details."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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20. When entering a new job, describe how you build relationships with your new coworkers and supervisors.
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know how you plan to start relationships with your new co-workers. Due to a wide variety of personalities, coworker connections can take time to form. How do you ensure that you have an active line of communication with your co-workers and supervisors, right from the start?
Here are some ideas for getting started on the right foot:
- Be willing to accept feedback and help
- Avoid all company gossip, at all cost
- Be early on your first day (and every day after that!)
- Be a good conversationalist - ask your coworkers questions about themselves!
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"I understand that some relationships come quickly, and others take time to nurture. When starting a new job, all that I can do is be my true self and let my personality, integrity, and reliability speak for itself."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Answer Example
"I will show up on time and dressed appropriately. I spend as much time as I can getting to know my new coworkers and telling them about myself and my family, and asking them about theirs. It is important to understand people on a bit of a personal level to know how to approach them."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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21. Describe your communication style. Why will your approach to communication be helpful as a Police Dispatcher?
How to Answer
As a Police Dispatcher, it isn't just your verbal communication skills that need to be reliable. Being a clear communicator, in written form, is also an essential skill to master. Are you confident in your communication style, overall? Perhaps you have taken courses in communication for first-responders. Talk to the interviewer about your communication abilities and support your answer with a brief example or story.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"I have strong written and verbal communication skills which have been well-honed through my time in University. I spend a lot of time working on team projects and have to be able to communicate clearly with all parties. I would describe my communication style as consistent, which is of vast importance while working in a Police Dispatch role."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Answer Example
"My written communication style is strong. I am clear in my goals and often utilize written communication as a follow up to verbal communications. These written follow-ups provide a great resource for my fellow dispatchers to go back to and reference when I am not on shift. Over the years, I have attended a variety of training sessions for communicating as a first-responder. I am eager to continue to apply my knowledge as a Police Dispatcher for your department."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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22. Have you spoken with other Police Dispatchers regarding what this career is like?
How to Answer
Researching the opportunity, the career overall, and the department you will be joining is a critical first step before going to an interview. Tell the hiring manager the extent of your research, how you feel about the opportunity to work as a Police Dispatcher, and why you would like to work in this position.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"During one of my internships, I met someone who worked as a dispatcher in this department. He mentioned that even though the stress levels are high, the feeling of camaraderie is even greater. It made me feel very confident in the culture here, which is why I applied for the Police Dispatcher position."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Answer Example
"I have spoken with one of your other dispatchers about this position, and she had so many wonderful things to say about working here. After researching online and speaking with her, I am even more excited about the opportunity. I would love to have this job and am eager to compete for the role."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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23. What has been your greatest accomplishment as a 911 dispatcher, so far?
How to Answer
Accomplishing something, big or small, is a motivating subject. Talk to the interviewer about what your proudest career accomplishment has been so far, and why. Be sure to show excitement and enthusiasm for what you have accomplished so far. If you are new to your dispatch career, discuss an accomplishment you have earned along the way, whether that be from school or a rewarding volunteer opportunity.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"The greatest accomplishment I have had so far is graduating University as an honors student while still working part-time as a volunteer dispatcher. This accomplishment showed me that I could dedicate myself to my career and reach the educational goals that I set for myself. It felt great to accomplish so much and earn recognition for my educational dedication."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Answer Example
"As a seasoned Police Dispatcher, I have many accomplishments that make me beam with pride. Overall, I would say that my greatest work accomplishment is the positive reputation that I have in this industry. I could also sum up my accomplishments by how proud I feel, knowing I have helped may children along the way. I have a deep level of compassion for children who are in scary situations, so every time I can assist, I feel a deep sense of accomplishment."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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24. Proper filing of reports is critical. Talk about your documentation skills and how you keep your records organized.
How to Answer
Depending on where you will be working, you may have a variety of systems and programs to learn, allowing for proper documentation, processing, and filing. When working as a Police Dispatcher, you must remain organized and accurate in the information that you are sharing. Walk the hiring authority through your process when it comes to keeping your records organized. If you are new to your career, you can discuss the fact that you are careful and organized in general.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"I learned a lot about the importance of organization, proper note-taking, and clear documentation while obtaining my degree. I must be able to easily track my work but also ensure that others can do the same. If hired as your next Police Dispatcher, you have the assurance that I would follow all documentation protocols."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Answer Example
"As an experienced Police Dispatcher, I fully understand the repercussions of being disorganized or filing paperwork improperly. I am careful with my documentation, I use accurate wording, and ensure that the job can go on long after my shift is over. In every administrative action that I take, I make sure that my coworkers understand what occurred and what needs doing."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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25. If there were a domestic dispute phone call and a potential suicide call at the same time, but only one available officer, where would you send the officer?
How to Answer
The way you approach this question will depend on the level of emergency response training you have received. When working in dispatch, there are levels of emergencies. You may learn priority dispatch codes, which consist of hundreds of categories and sub-categories ranging from non-emergency to health conditions, to violent crimes, and more. Every call is different, with each day bringing a range of decisions that need to be made, often in the blink of an eye.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"This is a challenging question to answer definitively, but first, I would check to see which resources were available to me, such as other first-responders such as EMS or the fire department. My initial reaction would be to respond to the domestic call, especially if the situation were violent or involving a weapon."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Answer Example
"My response will change depending on the smaller details of each situation. For instance, if the domestic involves a weapon, or if the suicidal person has already taken self-harm action. As a Police Dispatcher, I have yet to come across a situation where only one officer is available; however, I can see how this would happen in a smaller town or rural area. One decision would be to dispatch the officer to the domestic while dispatching the fire department or ambulance to the potential suicide where the responders are cross-trained to handle situations such as self-harm."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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26. Our Police Dispatchers are very busy. What kind of work volume are you capable of handling?
How to Answer
In the United States, the 911 system receives around 240 million calls per year. Now, that's a LOT of work volume. Not every call will be the same. Some calls are misdialed, some will be true emergencies, and some calls will be non-emergency calls from people who need guidance on who to turn to for their situation. The schedule and requirements of a Police Dispatcher are not easy, so you must come prepared to speak to the interviewer about your ability to manage a significant volume of work, for hours at a time.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"I am a fast learner; I work quickly and like daily challenges. Although I am new to my career in dispatch, I am confident that I will enjoy working in an environment with a high volume of work and critical responsibilities."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Answer Example
"Currently, I handle anywhere from three to thirty calls per hour, on a twelve-hour shift. This volume means that I can take upwards of 350 calls per shift, as a Police Dispatcher. I love working in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment not only because I enjoy the challenge but also because the days go by so fast. Rest assured, I am ready to meet the needs and volume of your department."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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27. Talk about your written communication skills.
How to Answer
As a Police Dispatcher, it isn't just your verbal communication skills that need to be healthy. Being a clear communicator, in written form, is also an essential skill to master. Are you confident in your written communication skills? Perhaps you have taken courses in communication and writing. Talk to the interviewer about your written communication abilities and support your answer with a brief example or story.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"I have strong written communication skills which have been well-honed through my time in university. I spend a lot of time working on team projects and have to be able to communicate clearly with all stakeholders."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Answer Example
"I would describe my written communication skills as very strong and would rate myself as a 9/10. I have always had a penchant for writing and have taken university courses related to communication, writing, and journalism."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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28. The need for police assistance never ends. Are you willing to work holidays and weekends?
How to Answer
Working in the emergency services and dispatch industry, you must be flexible and open when it comes to your schedule. Of course, you do not want to agree with a schedule that you cannot keep. Be sure to mention any restrictions on your availability.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"Being new to my career in dispatch, I fully expect that I will be taking the majority of holiday shifts. I am willing to put in my time before being offered premium shifts."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Answer Example
"I am happy to do my part by being available for my share of holidays and weekends. I do have children to care for, so I should have some notice if possible."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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29. Do you have current certification in CPR and First Aid? Are you comfortable giving CPR instructions on a call?
How to Answer
As a Police Dispatcher, you may be trained and certified in T-CPR, which is Telephone Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. As a dispatcher, you will often be the first communicator on cardiac arrest, choking, or other calls requiring firm knowledge and fast recall of CPR techniques. T-CPR training will train you to recognize the signs of cardiac arrest over the phone. Discuss your related training. If you do not have this type of training, be sure to express your desire and willingness to earn these credentials.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"I recently obtained a traditional CPR and First Aid certification. Recently, I learned about the T-CPR certification which I want to have before beginning as a Police Dispatcher. Do you offer this training, or is this coursework that I should enroll in independently?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Answer Example
"I have taken six courses on CPR, T-CPR, and First Aid. I am fully certified and brought my certifications for you today. You're welcome to make a copy of these certifications for my candidate file. CPR training saves many lives every year. I recently read some staggering numbers, including the fact that an estimated 350,000 sudden cardiac arrest events occur in the United States outside of a hospital environment. This statistic means that many of these calls are coming to a dispatch environment. As a first-responder, I cannot afford to be out of touch when it comes to life-saving techniques and information."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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30. Talk about your clerical skills, and how they will help you succeed as a Police Dispatcher.
How to Answer
As a Police Dispatcher, much of your work will be surrounding clerical tasks. These tasks could include typing, documenting, answering phones, sending emails, reading and writing memos, creating and communicating schedules, and more. Assure the hiring authority that you can keep up with the demand and expectations associated with the role.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Entry Level
"I have a diploma in office administration and plan to use the skills that I learned in my new role as a Police Dispatcher. I am confident in tasks such as typing, documenting, and communicating over email or team messaging apps."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
Answer Example
"Before becoming a Police Dispatcher, I worked as an administrator in a hospital's emergency department. There, I learned many valuable transferable skills such as accurate documentation, rapid typing, note-taking, and clear communication by email and memo. I can confidently say that my clerical skills are top-notch."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 15th, 2019
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