A Police Dispatcher must react appropriately under pressure. Give me an example of a time when you had to make a split second decision.
"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.
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."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
In my previous job I had to make decisions all of the time, as the owner of my company would frequently travel and left me in charge when she did. At the job I held before that, I managed a coffee shop and the owner had a family emergency that pulled her away from the company for two years. I took over without a bit of hesitation. Managing employees, ordering and shopping, day-to-day operations, I took it all on with confidence.
Cindy's Feedback
Ok, good start. The question is seeking insight into your ability to make fast decisions under pressure. Can you enrich your answer by drawing on the situation where you had to make a quick decision?
