Possibly Changing Badges...Need Help

[HawaiifiveO]

I'm a cop out in Hawaii and I just got the call for my oral board interview for a mainland fire department. I has passed all the other requirements (written, physical, poly, psy and the medical). I know I am going to be questioned as to the reasoning for my interest in switching from Police to Fire and I am extremely nervous about it. I have been a cop for over five years and I feel that I am in a dead end job and constantly deal with the worst in humanity. It is a thankless job and nowdays feel that I'm fooling myself thinking that I really help others. The public's morale of PO's is awful and I don't want to misrepresent myself to the board and have them think I am quitting due to lack of respect or similar. My interview is just over a week away and I really could use some help.

[GeorgeWendtCFI]

I think instead of focusing on the negative aspects of the PD job, I would be talking alot about the positive aspects of the FD job, even though you are right. You could have been a plumber, paralegal, chemist, whatever. What made you want to switch? You can draw on your LE experience to explain these positive things. Nobody wants to hire someone who speaks ill of a former job.

Good luck.

[BCLepore]

I completely agree with George in that you want to keep YOUR interview positive. NOBODY wants to be around someone who is negative. Most firefighters are upbeat and have a positive attitude. It's contageous.

You will find that the majority of firefighters LOVE their job and feel very fortunate to be in the position. Studies have shown that job satisfaction is the most important aspect of whether a person likes their job or not. Most firefighters are very satisfied.

The oral board already knows why you would want to make the switch form PD to Fire, but you can be sure they will ask.

Getting hired on the fire department is much more competitive than getting hired on the police department. I will warn you that the competition is stiff. You will encounter people who go from test to test. Don't be intimidated as you bring a lot to the table. While your profile is a little unconventional, police officers who switch to fire do very well.

My department has hired several in the last few years and they are all excellent employees. Each will tell you that it was the best move they have ever made.

The interview is THE most important step in the hiring process. The link below will take you to 85 of the most commonly asked fire department interview questions.

Good luck and remember that preparation is the key to your future success.

Paul Lepore
Battalion Chief
http://www.aspiringfirefighters.com/samples.html

[HawaiifiveO]

Thanks guys for the advice, you are both right no one wants a negative/pessimistic person on their squad. I'll definately keep both of your comments in mind. Thanks again.