Hiring lists

[dneptun81]

If a FD has a list; 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9... can they pick and choose people from anywhere or do they have to go down the list in order starting with 1?

[CaptBob]

Often in civil service testing they have a rule of 3, meaning they will call in 3 for each position; not quaranteed. They might call in more to cover the chances of some candidates not passing the remaining portions of the hiring process. The medical, psych and or polygraph. Some agencies use the rule of the list where the chief selects who they want.

I noticed in your other postings where you feel you have been slighted in the hiring process.

What do you do now? You feel hurt, angry, frustrated and betrayed. Well, there is not much you can do. If you push too hard you might hurt your chances of getting on somewhere else. Even if you are able to get someone to talk to you, you probably will never really find out why. It just happens sometimes for whatever reason.

My advice. Take the poison early here. Go through the denial, anger, and depression. Lick your wounds and accept what happened. Then, regroup and get back out there and test again. If you made it this far, chances are you can do it again. Maybe with a better department than you hoped for.

[dneptun81]

I don't feel betrayed, I have just heard a lot of small town rumors. Rumors are bad! The sea-monsters if you will. I've been sitting top of the list waiting to hear anything for closing in on 2 yrs. I'm just very antsey. I've tested other dept's and not done as well, but am improving.

[BCLepore]

Control what you can control. Do your best on EVERY exam and don't worry about the "favorites." Every exam has a candidate or candidates who are a "lock" to get hired. I can't tell you how often these candidates fail the written, oral interview, physical agility, medical, background or psychological exam. If they are that great of a candidate they are doing well in other testing processes and may take a job elsewhere.
It's alo important to keep in mind that many departments hire immediately for a vacancy but the eligibility lists are often good for several years. It's very likely that during the life of the list another opening will present itself.
It's very important to act with dignity and respect if you are passed over. (Been there) Believe me when I say this may affect your future chances of getting hired with the department.

Paul Lepore
Battalion Chief
www.aspiringfirefighters.com

[dneptun81]

Thanks Chief, now to figure out how to become a lock.... I keep my head held high and my tounge tight! I keep my opinions held close to not jeopardize my future chances, and if/when I have questions I present them here. Thanks to everyone for the wealth of knowledge!