How to Write a Police Officer Cover Letter - with Example
View this sample cover letter for a police officer, or download the police officer cover letter template in Word.
Police officers are called to protect citizens, enforce the law, and prevent crime. They hold one of the most demanding and complex roles in society. Entering this profession requires not only a specific education and training path but also being able to show certain key traits that can be difficult to highlight in a resume. That’s where a well-crafted police officer cover letter comes into play. In this article, we analyze how to write a cover letter for a police officer position and provide you with a sample to inspire your own.
A cover letter is an incredible tool that allows you to present yourself to prospective employers, and explain the you behind your resume and why you are their ideal candidate. Consider it almost as a pre-interview and keep it interesting and engaging. Recruiters and companies should want to meet you in person after reading it.
That’s why the first golden rule for writing a good cover letter is to avoid repeating what you included in your police officer resume. One strategy to achieve this is to explain how you possess the characteristics mentioned in your resume by backing those up with past achievements, certifications, or other qualifying experiences.
Another very powerful tactic is leveraging the power of storytelling to describe how a certain episode in your life pushed you to become a police officer. Include this in your opening and you’ll have more chance of hooking the reader.
The next crucial step in writing a cover letter that will secure you an interview is specifically targeting the police district you’re applying to. This means addressing the letter to the right person within the police office. Then, you should explain why you want to work for that specific district. Maybe you have a strong connection to that community because your family has lived there for generations. Perhaps you moved there, got to know what specific issues that area is facing, and you want to be part of a positive change. Whichever it is, make it as specific and clear as possible in your police officer cover letter.
Finally, read the job ad and look for the skills and specific qualities necessary for the role and include in your letter examples of how you used or acquired them in past experiences. These skills will likely include:
- physical stamina
- interpersonal communication
- problem-solving
- persuasiveness and assertiveness
- active listening
- first aid and CPR
- teamwork
Include a closing statement in which you briefly reiterate why you are perfect for the role and that you’d like to meet in person to discuss any questions they might have. Once this is done, your cover letter is good to go.
Check out our example of a great police officer cover letter for inspiration.
Police Officer Cover Letter
Brenda Ames
123 Main Rd., Denver, CO 80014, (555) 555-5555, name@email.com
[Date]
Mr. Matthew Richards
HR Manager
City of Denver
123 City Hall Ave.
Denver, CO 80014
Re: Police Officer, advertised on Monster
Dear Mr. Richards:
I was interested to read City of Denver’s posting on Monster for an entry-level police officer. For as long as I can remember I’ve wanted to pursue a career in law enforcement, and the opportunity to serve and protect my hometown community is my dream job.
Here’s why I am a strong candidate for this position:
Training & Credentials
After graduating top of my class from Law Enforcement Academy One to earn my Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certification, I pursued an AAS in law enforcement from Community College Two. Last month I earned my degree with honors, along with CPR and first aid certifications. As a result of this training, I have a solid foundation in police fundamentals such as:
- Police Patrol Procedures
- Criminal Investigations
- Crime Scene Preservation
- Evidence Collection
- Principles of Criminal Justice
- Weapons and Firearms Handling
- Interview and Interrogation Techniques
- Street Survival Techniques
- Emergency Response
- Arrest Control Techniques
- Legal Search and Seizure
- Law Enforcement Driving
Physically Fit
An avid fitness enthusiast, I participate in marathons and incorporate weight training and kickboxing into my routine. These activities have prepared me for the physical rigors of police patrolling, safely restraining/subduing combative individuals and performing emergency rescue and response work.
Community-Minded
As a native of Denver, I am deeply committed to the welfare of the community. After graduating from Denver High School, I stayed active in my local church and volunteer club. These close community ties will assist in fostering positive relationships and furthering police-community goodwill.
To schedule a meeting, please feel free to call (555) 555-5555 or email name@email.com. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Brenda Ames
In your job search, you should know that the median salary for police officers sits at $68,968 per year. However, your wage will vary based on your education, certifications, years of service, bonuses, and specific employer and area as well. Plus, typically you’ll be paid more in large metro areas than in rural police precincts. On top of that, top-paying sub-industries for police officers are:
- state government
- local government
- postal service
- federal executive branch
- general medical and surgical hospitals
At the same time, location-wise, due to the higher demand, police officers earn the most in:
Wondering how much police officers make in your city? Explore Monster’s Salary Calculator. This page is an information mine for candidates. It also reveals the latest available police officer jobs, the wage for similar professions, possible career advancements, and desirable skills in police officers, which you can include in your police officer cover letter.
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