personal statement cv police

• AI Content Shield
• AI KW Research
• AI Assistant
• SEO Optimizer
• AI KW Clustering
• Customer reviews
• The NLO Revolution
• Press Center
• Help Center
• Content Resources
• Facebook Group

Police Application Personal Statement Example & Tips

Table of Contents

A job as a police officer is one of the world’s most demanding and rewarding jobs. This guide offers a good police application personal statement example to teach you how to structure your statement.

A personal statement example shows an employer that you have the skills to work in law enforcement. Read on to see how to structure a good police personal statement and learn from an example.

Personal Statement for a Police Application

Many people aspire to a law enforcement career and envision themselves as police officers. You merely need a high school diploma or equivalent, such as the General Educational Development (GED), to qualify.

To begin your career as a police officer, you must first be accepted into and graduate from a police academy. But there’s more to it than just filling out an application.

A solid education, application requirements, and a battery of exams are needed to qualify and progress in your area. If you have professional expertise, cover letters and personal statements can assist you in getting into the police academy and networking with law enforcement.

How to Write a Captivating Personal Statement for a Police Application

Creating a cover letter can sound needlessly complicated as if you’re trying to customize your application for each job opportunity. Consequently, you may compose a personal statement.

Your history, values, and hobbies should be in a personal statement. Explain in your statement why you want to become a police officer and how attending the academy would help you achieve this goal.

Some guidelines for crafting an engaging personal statement are provided below.

• Get your thoughts down on paper.
• Take your time composing your essay.
• Take care to pick and use the correct phrases.
• Utilize your strengths as a writer to guide your work.
• Begin with a solid introduction.
• Do not make up anything; stick to the truth.
• Check your statement for typos.

Police Application Personal Statement Example

The personal statement for a police application is meant to show how valuable a resource the applicant can be for the police force. Here’s an excellent example from INK .

As a law enforcement professional with years of experience, my devotion to public service and justice will be helpful as an officer. I’m proud of my local community’s impact in avoiding crime through education, awareness, and support.

I take great pride in communicating effectively with a wide array of individuals. From teaching kids to avoid danger to defusing heated disputes, I’ve seen how important it is for officers to be proactive and convincing.

My aptitude for problem-solving, resourcefulness, and persistence make me an ideal candidate for this position. I have consistently exemplified ethical conduct throughout my career by making prudent decisions to uphold justice and respect people’s rights. In addition, I have earned repute among colleagues due to my punctuality in attending to details and completing tasks promptly and accurately.

In conclusion, my professional experiences have prepared me for the demands of police work, and I look forward to serving my community.

The police application personal statement example above is a very stunning example of a well-written personal statement for a police application. Write with passion in your application and reassure the reader that you have the specific skills they need.

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

Explore All Write Personal Statement Articles

How to draft meaningful length of law school personal statement.

Are you confused on how to write a law school personal statement? One of the essential elements of your application…

• Write Personal Statement

Effective History and International Relations Personal Statement to Try

Are you considering studying history and international relations? Or you may be curious about what a degree in this field…

Guide to Quality Global Management Personal Statement

Are you applying for a global management program and want to stand out from the crowd? A well-written personal statement…

How to Draft Better Examples of Personal Statements for Residency

Achieving a residency can be a massive accomplishment for any aspiring medical professional. To secure your spot in one of…

Tips for Drafting a Free Example of Personal History Statement

A personal history statement can be crucial to many applications, from university admissions to job search processes. This blog will…

Writing Compelling Dietetic Internship Personal Statement

Applying for a dietetic internship is a rigorous process and requires submitting a personal statement, which is an essential part…

• Applying to Uni
• Apprenticeships
• Health & Relationships
• Money & Finance

Personal Statements

• Postgraduate
• U.S Universities

University Interviews

• Vocational Qualifications
• Accommodation
• ​​​​​​​Budgeting, Money & Finance
• ​​​​​​​Health & Relationships
• ​​​​​​​Jobs & Careers
• ​​​​​​​Socialising

Studying Abroad

• ​​​​​​​Studying & Revision
• ​​​​​​​Technology
• ​​​​​​​University & College Admissions

Guide to GCSE Results Day

Finding a job after school or college

Retaking GCSEs

In this section

Choosing GCSE Subjects

Post-GCSE Options

GCSE Work Experience

GCSE Revision Tips

Why take an Apprenticeship?

Applying for an Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships Interviews

Apprenticeship Wage

Engineering Apprenticeships

What is an Apprenticeship?

Choosing an Apprenticeship

Real Life Apprentices

Degree Apprenticeships

Higher Apprenticeships

A Level Results Day 2024

AS Levels 2024

Clearing Guide 2024

Applying to University

SQA Results Day Guide 2024

BTEC Results Day Guide

Vocational Qualifications Guide

Sixth Form or College

International Baccalaureate

Post 18 options

Finding a Job

Should I take a Gap Year?

Travel Planning

Volunteering

Gap Year Guide

Gap Year Blogs

Applying to Oxbridge

Applying to US Universities

Choosing a Degree

Choosing a University or College

Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Guide to Freshers' Week

Student Guides

Student Cooking

Student Blogs

Top Rated Personal Statements

Personal Statement Examples

Writing Your Personal Statement

Postgraduate Personal Statements

International Student Personal Statements

Gap Year Personal Statements

Personal Statement Length Checker

Personal Statement Examples By University

Personal Statement Changes 2025

Personal Statement Template

Job Interviews

Types of Postgraduate Course

Writing a Postgraduate Personal Statement

Postgraduate Funding

Postgraduate Study

Internships

Choosing A College

Ivy League Universities

Common App Essay Examples

Universal College Application Guide

How To Write A College Admissions Essay

College Rankings

Admissions Tests

Fees & Funding

Scholarships

Budgeting For College

Online Degree

Platinum Express Editing and Review Service

Gold Editing and Review Service

Silver Express Editing and Review Service

UCAS Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Oxbridge Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Postgraduate Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

You are here

Policing personal statement example.

I have always been fascinated by the way police deal with stressful and demanding situations and find that when I always see them in the street in their uniform I want to be looked upon as an integral part of a community. For some time now I have considered the prospects of university and what it will be like to learn in such a compelling environment.

I think that the policing course will provide me with all the essential knowledge to become an outstanding police officer therefore, I am looking forward to all of the topics covered but most of all the practical work, because I will be able to show what I can do best, although the 'operational policing' topic seems very interesting.

As you will notice on my UCAS form I took sociology and there is a reason for this and that is because of the crime and policing topic which I am doing this year, despite all of the other topics that were interesting this is by far the most motivating topic in attracting me to your course. I think that crime and policing is fascinating topic and I will enjoy the course to my full potential.

I think it might be good to mention that I have had to rely on the police in the past and found that they dealt with my situation effectively, and prepared me to finally make the decision to become a police officer. There is little I have done that relates to the course because of the age restrictions that I have later mentioned, but that does not make me less enthusiastic about the topic in fact it makes me want to do it more because of the fact I want to learn much more about the subject.

To learn a little more I am currently reading a book called 'Policing a diverse society' by a man called Phil Clements. At the moment the book Is very appealing and was made for foundation degree students and is a perfect asset to my application.

In year 10 I applied for my work experience with my local police station unfortunately I wasn't old enough, therefore I went on a placement where I could get a good understanding of helping people and get a real feel of a working environment, similar to that of working with the police. I have been awarded a CSLA (community sports leader award), in which we had to teach and look after year 2's to year 6's and part of this was 10 hours of community work with a local primary school teaching kids basketball. From the community work with the CSLA I have gained a greater understanding of helping in a community, a prospect which I am greatly looking forward to in the police force.

When I'm not in school and in my free time I like to enjoy a good game of badminton, or if that's not available I will either go to the gym or go for a swim to keep fit. I have been fond of badminton since I can remember and have always been keen on the sport. I currently have a part-time job at a hotel where I live in which I prepare food and make deserts and starters. I generally have this job to save money for university and monthly necessities.

I am seriously looking forward to your course and the enjoyment and work of university life. After I complete my foundation degree, with all of the skills, knowledge and work with the Northampton police, I hope to peruse my chosen career path and become a member of the Great British police force.

Profile info

This personal statement was written by Goode for application in 2008.

Goode's Comments

Its not what I thing I want to know what you all think =)

Related Personal Statements

Thu, 11/12/2008 - 11:03

what university was this policing course that u applied for at please?

Fri, 12/12/2008 - 11:03

excuse me mr! i have asked u a question please answer it!!! rudeness!!

Fri, 12/12/2008 - 11:04

helllooooooooooooooooooo anybody here

me and u x x

Fri, 12/12/2008 - 11:06

ow long did tha take ya 5 minits x x x x i want u! x x x x

Tue, 10/02/2009 - 21:51

Sorry I have been soo busy with all this school work and so on. I applied to Northampton, Canterbury, Wolverhampton, Huddersfield and Cumbria.

oh did this statement get you

Mon, 19/10/2009 - 20:27

oh did this statement get you in to one of the universities or not??

Add new comment

Build my resume

• Build a better resume in minutes
• Resume examples
• 2,000+ examples that work in 2024
• Resume templates
• 184 free templates for all levels
• Cover letters
• Cover letter generator
• It's like magic, we promise
• Cover letter examples
• Free downloads in Word & Docs

9 Real Police Officer Resume Examples That Worked in 2024

Police Officer

Best for senior and mid-level candidates.

There’s plenty of room in our elegant resume template to add your professional experience while impressing recruiters with a sleek design.

Resume Builder

Like this template? Customize this resume and make it your own with the help of our Al-powered suggestions, accent colors, and modern fonts.

Police Officer Resume

• Police Officer Resumes by Experience
• Police Officer Resumes by Role

Police Officer Resume FAQs

You’re a defender of the police and a protector of the innocent; you’re a police officer, and keeping people safe is what you do. 

As a police officer, you’re used to discipline and organization, so your resume should also reflect those qualities. But what else does a good resume include?  Making an amazing resume  and writing an effective cover letter may feel more exhausting than chasing a suspect through the night, but it doesn’t have to be mysterious.

For this reason,  we’ve created nine police officer resume samples that will help get you hired in 2024 . These resumes contain everything you need to know about writing a police officer resume, including the essential details you’ll want to include or omit so that you can turn in your current job resignation letter and get hired faster!

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• If you’re in the middle of your career, don’t worry about adding an objective or summary to your police officer resume; they’re completely optional, albeit useful if used well.
• On the flip side, if you do choose to use an objective or summary,  always tailor it to each job for which you apply . Mention the employer and role by name, and include your reasons for wanting that particular position.
• Hiring managers typically spend only six seconds reviewing your resume. Including awards can help you gain recognition and increase your chances of getting an interview.

Experienced Police Officer Resume

• “Supervised and coordinated a team of 12 patrol officers” and “reducing road accidents in school zones by 50%” are potential examples of tangible, eye-catching results.
• We’d recommend listing six to eight highly relevant skills such as “search & seizure” and “teamwork.”

Entry-Level Police Officer Resume

• The key to a good objective is customizing it for each job for which you apply. Include the name of the employer, the role you’re seeking, and the skills you hope to use in your future position to stand out and get noticed by hiring personnel.
• For example, mentioning soft skills like “managed,” “handled,” “analyzed,” or “trained” shows leadership and is a great way to book your spot for an interview!

Retired Police Officer Resume

• For a part-time bailiff position, shape your career objective around your proven ability to follow protocol—a must in courtroom settings.

Auxiliary Police Officer Resume

• Don’t forget to include your criminal justice degree on this resume. It reveals a longstanding dedication to the mission of the police department.

NYPD Police Officer Resume

• For instance, did you achieve the status of sergeant or captain? Include it on your resume, highlighting your most recent and relevant experience first in reverse-chronological order.
• What does this mean? Use strong verbs and active voice to demonstrate your leadership. For example, instead of saying, “Aided other officers in patrols by taking calls,” say “Monitored radio calls during night shift to assist officers during patrols.”

Federal Police Officer Resume

• Start by putting your work experience in reverse-chronological order, then lay out the rest of your information according to importance.
• For example, keep your contact header at the very top of your resume, and put your skills section after your education.
• You’d be surprised to discover the fine details interviewers notice when searching for the perfect candidate, so always  check your resume  for errors before you hit submit!

Public Safety Officer Resume

• For instance, have you moved from completing some tasks to supervising various teams completing many tasks? Ensure your resume shows a progression in your ability to handle more responsibilities.
• The goal with your skills should be to show employers you’ve got more than just head knowledge. A great example would be “administered first aid to 32 injured students” because it shows how you applied your abilities at first aid.

Campus Police Officer Resume

• Make the job description your roadmap for skills and experience to include. Are they looking for someone to train new recruits? Mention how you mentored cadets in the past. Do they want someone who can maintain their own police vehicle? Include any maintenance experience you have. Customizing your resume is the number one way to get noticed!
• Your employer likely expects you to have experience dealing with adolescents or college students, so, try to mention your communication skills. This kind of resume alteration will help employers realize you’re the one.

Related resume guides

• Security Officer
• Investigator
• Security Guard
• Firefighter

What employers don’t want to see is a list of job duties. They already know what a police officer does; instead, use your job description bullet points to speak to accomplishments in your law enforcement career. What situations did you encounter, how did you respond to those situations, and what was the result or impact? Whenever possible, quantify those statements.

Be detailed and specific in your resume, but save the story-telling aspect for your police officer cover letter .

This depends on the job description. If you’re applying to work as a public safety officer, you might consider skills like firearm safety and security equipment maintenance. If you’re planning to serve at a college campus, crowd control is an excellent skill to have. And working for a traditional police department, search and seizure will be important. The point is to understand what the job requires and to tailor your police resume accordingly.

Since law enforcement leaves room for an upward trajectory, it makes the most sense to format your resume in reverse-chronological order. What’s “above the fold” of your resume is what hiring teams will focus their attention on most, which means if you’re currently a sergeant, you shouldn’t start by listing your first job right out of the police academy.

Police Officer CV Examples (Template & 20+ Tips)

Create a standout police officer cv with our online platform. browse professional templates for all levels and specialties. land your dream role today.

This Police Officer CV example provides an overview of the type of content that should be included in a successful police officer CV. It highlights important details that should be included, such as experience, education, and skills. Additionally, it offers tips on how to make your CV stand out from the rest of the competition. With this article, you will be able to create an effective CV that will help you land the job you want.

We will cover:

• How to write a CV , no matter your industry or job title.
• What to put on a CV to stand out.
• The top skills employers from every industry want to see.
• How to build a CV fast with our professional CV Builder .
• What a CV template is, and why you should use it.

What does a Police Officer do?

Police officers are responsible for protecting citizens and enforcing laws. Their duties include patrolling their assigned areas, responding to calls for service, conducting investigations, making arrests, issuing citations, testifying in court, writing reports, and providing general assistance to the public. They may also be responsible for traffic enforcement, crowd control, and providing first aid.

• Detective CV Sample
• Fire Captain CV Sample
• Firefighter CV Sample
• Lifeguard CV Sample
• Park Ranger CV Sample
• Police Chief CV Sample
• Police Officer CV Sample
• Probation Officer CV Sample
• Security Guard CV Sample
• Sheriff CV Sample
• Special Agent CV Sample
• Animal Control Officer CV Sample
• Deputy Sheriff CV Sample
• Fire Chief CV Sample
• Forensic Examiner CV Sample
• Police Dispatcher CV Sample
• Police Lieutenant CV Sample

What are some responsibilities of a Police Officer?

• Protect the citizens and enforce the law
• Patrol assigned areas
• Respond to emergency calls
• Write reports and document incidents
• Maintain order in public places
• Conduct investigations
• Make arrests
• Testify in court

Sample Police Officer CV for Inspiration

Personal Details: Name: John Smith Address: 123 Main Street, New York, NY Phone: (123) 456-7890 Email: [email protected]

Summary: John Smith is an experienced and dedicated Police Officer with 5 years of experience in law enforcement. He has a proven track record of success in crime prevention, investigation, and community engagement. He is committed to upholding the law and ensuring public safety.

Work Experience:

• Police Officer, New York Police Department - 2015-2020
• Patrolled assigned areas to maintain order and enforce laws
• Investigated suspicious activities and responded to emergency calls
• Prepared detailed reports of investigations and arrests
• Conducted traffic stops and issued citations
• Provided assistance to victims and witnesses

Education: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, ABC University, 2011-2015 High School Diploma, XYZ High School, 2007-2011

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Excellent problem solving and critical thinking skills
• Proficiency in the use of firearms and other police equipment
• Knowledge of criminal justice procedures and laws
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Certifications:

• Certified Police Officer
• CPR and First Aid Certified
• Community Policing Certification
• Defensive Tactics Certification

Languages: English (Native), Spanish (Proficient)

CV tips for Police Officer

Crafting an impeccable CV that kickstarts your career is a challenging endeavor. While adhering to fundamental writing principles is beneficial, seeking guidance customized for your unique job pursuit is equally prudent. As a newcomer to the professional realm, you require Police Officer CV pointers. We've curated top-notch advice from experienced Police Officer individuals. Explore their insights to streamline your writing journey and enhance the likelihood of fashioning a CV that captivates potential employers' attention.

• Highlight your experience and qualifications in police work.
• Include any specialized training and certifications.
• Emphasize your commitment to justice and the law.
• Mention any special accomplishments or awards.
• Include any relevant volunteer or community service.

Police Officer CV Summary Examples

A police officer CV summary or CV objective is a great tool to use when creating a CV because it helps to showcase the most important aspects of your experience and skills. It can draw attention to key strengths and abilities that would be attractive to a potential employer, such as excellent communication, problem solving, and leadership skills. It’s also a great way to include a brief summary of the type of work you’re hoping to do, as well as any other relevant details that might be of interest. For Example:

• Highly motivated Police Officer with 10+ years of experience in law enforcement. Possesses a strong understanding of criminal and civil law, and the ability to enforce them effectively.
• Experienced Police Officer with a track record of success in addressing complex criminal matters and enforcing laws. Skilled in communication, conflict resolution, and problem-solving.
• Law enforcement professional with a solid understanding of police operations, techniques, and procedures. Adept at public speaking, investigations, and well-versed in the use of firearms.
• Dedicated Police Officer with a strong background in community policing and emergency response. Possesses excellent communication and problem-solving skills, and is committed to protecting the public.
• Well-rounded Police Officer with a commitment to excellence in law enforcement. Skilled in patrol, investigations, and public relations. Possesses a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice.

Build a Strong Experience Section for Your Police Officer CV

Building a strong experience section for a police officer CV is important because it is the primary way for potential employers to evaluate a candidate's qualifications. It is also the section that will set the tone for the rest of the CV. A strong experience section will showcase the candidate's past successes and provide a thorough and accurate overview of their past experience in law enforcement. It should include details about the candidate's professional training, certifications, special skills, awards, and any other achievements that have been earned while employed as a police officer. A strong experience section will help to create a positive impression and demonstrate that the candidate is ready to work in a professional and challenging environment. For Example:

• Provided security services for a variety of events, including political rallies and protests.
• Conducted traffic stops and issued citations for violations of traffic laws.
• Investigated motor vehicle accidents, responded to emergency calls, and completed appropriate paperwork.
• Conducted crime scene investigations, collected evidence, and interviewed suspects and witnesses.
• Conducted surveillance of suspicious activities to identify and apprehend criminals.
• Patrolled assigned areas to ensure public safety and respond to emergency calls.
• Prepared reports and case documents to be used in court proceedings.
• Interacted with members of the public in a professional and respectful manner.
• Utilized problem-solving and de-escalation techniques to diffuse potentially dangerous situations.
• Participated in community policing initiatives to build positive relationships with local communities.

Police Officer CV education example

A police officer typically needs to obtain a high school diploma or GED and complete a basic police academy training program. In addition to this, many police departments require officers to have some college education, such as an associate’s degree or a bachelor's degree. Some specialized positions, such as detectives, may require a higher level of education. Here is an example of an experience listing suitable for a Police Officer CV:

• Bachelor of Science in Law Enforcement: University of Washington, WA (2008 - 2012)
• Police Academy Training: Washington State Police Academy, WA (2013)
• Advanced Tactical Training: Washington State Police Academy, WA (2015)
• Crisis Intervention Training: Washington State Police Academy, WA (2016)
• Firearms Training: Washington State Police Academy, WA (2017)

Police Officer Skills for a CV

Adding skills to a Police Officer CV is important because it communicates to employers what abilities a candidate has that make them suitable for the position. Skills demonstrate a candidate’s abilities and competencies, such as problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and decision-making. Including skills on a Police Officer CV can show that the candidate has the qualities needed to effectively perform the duties of the job. Soft Skills:

• Communication
• Interpersonal
• Problem-solving
• Decision-making
• Organizational
• Negotiation
• Adaptability
• Firearm proficiency
• Investigative skills
• Emergency response
• Physical fitness
• Public speaking
• Self-defense
• Tactical operations
• Computer literacy
• Law enforcement
• Crowd control

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Police Officer CV

In today's competitive job market, an average of 180 applications floods employers' inboxes for each vacant position. To streamline this influx of CVs, companies frequently employ automated applicant tracking systems that weed out less qualified candidates. If your CV manages to surpass these digital gatekeepers, it must still captivate the attention of the recruiter or hiring manager. Given the sheer volume of applications, a mere 5 seconds is typically allocated to each CV before a decision is reached. With this in mind, it's crucial to eliminate any extraneous information that might relegate your application to the discard pile. To ensure your CV shines, consult the list below for elements to avoid including in your job application.

• Skipping the cover letter: A well-crafted cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your suitability for the role and express your enthusiasm for it.
• Excessive jargon: CVs laden with technical terms can alienate hiring managers who lack specialized knowledge.
• Neglecting vital details: Incorporate your contact information, education, work history, and pertinent skills and experiences.
• Relying on generic templates: Tailoring your CV to the specific job exhibits your commitment to the position and company.
• Errors in spelling and grammar: Proofreading is essential to eliminate typos, spelling errors, and grammatical blunders.
• Overemphasizing duties: Highlight accomplishments to underline your candidacy's value.
• Sharing personal information: Steer clear of revealing personal details like age, marital status, or religious affiliations.

Key takeaways for a Police Officer CV

• Highlight any relevant qualifications and certifications.
• Include a summary of your law enforcement experience.
• Include specific law enforcement skills and abilities.
• Highlight any specialized training.
• Include any awards or recognition.
• List any relevant computer and software skills.
• Be sure to include volunteer and community service.

• • Spearheaded community engagement initiatives, improving local relations by 40% through strategic partnership building.
• • Managed high-risk situations, successfully de-escalating 95% of incidents without physical force, prioritising dialogue and conflict resolution.
• • Coordinated with local businesses to implement crime prevention strategies, leading to a 25% reduction in petty crime in target areas.
• • Mentored a team of 5 junior officers, enhancing team performance and cohesiveness, resulting in a 10% increase in positive public feedback.
• • Facilitated victim and witness interviews, improving information gathering efficiency by 30% with the introduction of innovative interview techniques.
• • Led intelligence-driven operations that disrupted three major criminal networks, directly enhancing community safety.
• • Developed and led a taskforce that reduced street crime by 20% in high-priority neighbourhoods through proactive patrols.
• • Processed and maintained evidence for over 100 cases, ensuring 90% were ready for trial with comprehensive case files.
• • Conducted over 200 community policing events, improving police visibility and trust within the community.
• • Implemented a new incident reporting system that increased reporting efficiency by 15% and streamlined inter-department communications.
• • Assisted in training 10 new officers in standard operating procedures, evidence handling, and community engagement.
• • Oversaw security operations for a portfolio of 5 high-value corporate clients, securing assets worth over £10M.
• • Identified and mitigated security risks, reducing security breaches by 50% across managed properties.
• • Trained and managed a team of 20 security personnel, ensuring adherence to legal and company policies.
• • Coordinated with local law enforcement to support investigations, aiding in the resolution of 10 high-profile cases.

Police Officer CV Examples & Guide for 2024

When crafting your police officer CV, ensure it demonstrates a strong understanding of law enforcement principles. Highlight your commitment to upholding the law with integrity and professionalism. Your CV should also showcase exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal. Detail your experience with community engagement and crisis management to show your ability to maintain public safety.

• CV Format Tips
• Summary or Objective?
• Experience on Your CV
• No Experience?
• Top CV Skills
• Education & Certifications
• Key Takeaways

One specific curriculum vitae (CV) challenge you might face as a police officer is effectively translating your diverse and dynamic range of skills into civilian terms. Our guide offers comprehensive strategies to articulate your law enforcement expertise in a way that resonates with non-police employers, ensuring your application stands out.

• Answer job requirements with your police officer CV and experience;
• Curate your academic background and certificates, following industry-leading CV examples;
• Select from +10 niche skills to match the ideal candidate profile
• Write a more succinct experience section that consists of all the right details.

Do you need more specific insights into writing your police officer CV? Our guides focus on unique insights for each individual role:

• Security Manager CV Example
• Security Guard CV Example
• Security Officer CV Example
• Firefighter CV Example

How complex should the format of your police officer CV be?

• Presenting the information in a reverse chronological order with the most recent of your jobs first. This is done so that your career history stays organised and is aligned to the role;
• Making it easy for recruiters to get in touch with you by including your contact details in the CV header. Regarding the design of your CV header, include plenty of white space and icons to draw attention to your information. If you're applying for roles in the UK, don't include a photo, as this is considered a bad practice ;
• Organising your most important CV sections with consistent colours, plenty of white space, and appropriate margins (2.54 cm). Remember that your CV design should always aim at legibility and to spotlight your key information;
• Writing no more than two pages of your relevant experience. For candidates who are just starting out in the field, we recommend to have an one-page CV.

One more thing about your CV format - you may be worried if your double column CV is Applicant Tracker System (ATS) complaint. In our recent study, we discovered that both single and double-column CVs are ATS-friendly . Most ATSes out there can also read all serif and sans serif fonts . We suggest you go with modern, yet simple, fonts (e.g. Rubik, Lato, Raleway) instead of the classic Times New Roman. You'll want your application to stand out, and many candidates still go for the classics. Finally, you'll have to export your CV. If you're wondering if you should select Doc or PDF, we always advise going with PDF. Your CV in PDF will stay intact and opens easily on every OS, including Mac OS.

Upload & Check Your CV

Drop your CV here or choose a file . PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.

For certain fields, consider including infographics or visual elements to represent skills or achievements, but ensure they are simple, professional, and enhance rather than clutter the information.

The top sections on a police officer CV

• Relevant Policing Experience to showcase past law enforcement roles.
• Law Enforcement Certifications to highlight specialised training and qualifications.
• Key Law Enforcement Skills to demonstrate abilities unique to police work.
• Awards & Commendations to reflect recognised performance and achievements.
• Community Policing Initiatives to show engagement with community relations.

What recruiters value on your CV:

• Highlight your understanding of local laws and regulations, as a comprehensive knowledge of legal frameworks is critical for a police officer.
• Emphasise any experience in community engagement or working with the public, as this demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively and build trust within the community.
• Detail relevant training or qualifications, such as self-defence, first aid, or crisis intervention techniques, which are directly applicable to the day-to-day responsibilities of a police officer.
• Include any instances of problem-solving or critical thinking in high-pressure situations, as these skills are highly valued in policing and law enforcement roles.
• Point out your physical fitness levels and any athletic achievements, since the role of a police officer often requires a good level of physical ability to respond to emergencies.

Recommended reads:

• Understanding the Different Sections in Your CV - Guide for 2024
• Reverse Chronological CV: Stuck in the Past or Future-Proof?

How to present your contact details and job keywords in your police officer CV header

Located at the top of your police officer CV, the header presents recruiters with your key personal information, headline, and professional photo. When creating your CV header, include your:

• Contact details - avoid listing your work email or telephone number and, also, email addresses that sound unprofessional (e.g. [email protected] is definitely a big no);
• Headline - it should be relevant, concise, and specific to the role you're applying for , integrating keywords and action verbs;
• Photo - instead of including a photograph from your family reunion, select one that shows you in a more professional light . It's also good to note that in some countries (e.g. the UK and US), it's best to avoid photos on your CV as they may serve as bias.

What do other industry professionals include in their CV header? Make sure to check out the next bit of your guide to see real-life examples:

Examples of good CV headlines for police officer:

• Police Constable | Community Relations Specialist | Public Safety Expert | 5 Years Service
• Sergeant | Crime Prevention Coordinator | Leadership Training Certificate | 8+ Years on the Beat
• Detective Inspector | Homicide Investigations Pro | Forensic Analysis Enthusiast | Over 10 Years Experience
• Chief Superintendent | Strategic Operations Leader | Counter-Terrorism Experience | 15+ Years Dedication
• Police Dog Handler | K9 Training Expert | Drugs and Explosives Detection | 7 Years in Service
• Traffic Officer | Road Safety Advocate | Accident Investigation Specialist | Advanced Driving Certificate | 6 Years Patrol Experience

What's the difference between a police officer CV summary and objective

Why should it matter to you?

• Your police officer CV summary is a showcasing your career ambitions and your unique value . Use the objective to answer why your potential employers should hire you based on goals and ambitions. The objective is the ideal choice for candidates who happen to have less professional experience, but still meet some of the job requirements.

Before you select which one will be more relevant to your experience, have a look at some industry-leading CV summaries and objectives.

CV summaries for a police officer job:

• Seasoned police officer with over 10 years of experience in urban law enforcement, adept in conflict resolution, criminal investigations, and community policing. Recipient of the Chief’s Commendation Award for courage and leadership during an emergency crisis.
• Dedicated former military sergeant with 8 years of experience, seeking to transfer skills in strategic planning, team coordination, and risk assessment to a career in law enforcement. Excelled in high-pressure environments and recognized for outstanding leadership abilities.
• Committed educator with 15 years of experience in teaching and administration, eager to apply strong communication skills, crisis intervention techniques, and problem-solving abilities to a new career in policing.
• Enthusiastic about joining the metropolitan police force as a recent criminology graduate with academic honours; eager to apply theoretical knowledge, strong analytical skills, and a fresh perspective to contemporary policing challenges.
• Seeking an entry-level policer officer position where my strong sense of justice and commitment to societal welfare can contribute to effective crime prevention and community relations, while I develop hands-on experience in law enforcement.
• Aspiring to utilise my bachelor's degree in psychology and passion for public service by starting a policing career, where my understanding of human behaviour and excellent interpersonal skills can aid in sensitive investigations and foster community trust.

More detailed look into your work history: best advice on writing your police officer CV experience section

The CV experience is a space not just to merely list your past roles and responsibilities. It is the CV real estate within which you could detail your greatest accomplishments and skills, while matching the job requirements. Here's what to have in your experience section:

• Prove you have what the job wants with your unique skill set and past successes;
• Start each bullet with a strong, action verb, and continue with the outcome of your responsibility;
• Use any awards, nominations, and recognitions you've received as solid proof of your skill set and expertise ;
• align your experience with the role responsibilities and duties.

For more help on how to write your CV experience section, check out the next section of our guide:

Best practices for your CV's work experience section

• Demonstrated ability to maintain public safety and enforce laws firmly and fairly. Managed high-stress situations professionally and defused conflicts through effective communication and negotiation techniques.
• Conducted regular patrols in assigned areas to deter and detect criminal activity. Compiled detailed reports and provided witness statements that contributed to successful prosecution and convictions.
• Expertly operated police equipment, including patrol vehicles, radios, and computer systems, ensuring constant readiness and effective response to incidents. Maintained equipment in top condition through regular inspections and servicing.
• Engaged with local communities to build trust and improve police visibility. Organised public meetings to address safety concerns and gather intelligence which informed policing strategies.
• Trained in advanced first aid and rapid response, efficiently administering life-saving procedures on multiple occasions. Successfully managed emergency scenes until the arrival of medical professionals.
• Experienced in conducting thorough investigations, gathering evidence, and interviewing witnesses and suspects. Applied exceptional attention to detail to ensure no critical information was overlooked.
• Implemented crime prevention initiatives that led to a noticeable reduction in petty crime rates in my patrol area. Collaborated with neighbourhood watch programs and provided security assessments for residents.
• Effectively managed incident scenes, establishing cordons and liaising with other emergency services. Facilitated smooth inter-agency operations during large-scale emergencies and public events.
• Detailed familiarity with legal procedures and protocols, ensuring that all arrests and evidence collection adhered to legal requirements. Successfully navigated complex legal environments to support the criminal justice process.
• Played a pivotal role in reducing crime rates by 20% through strategic patrolling and community engagement initiatives.
• Led a high-profile burglary investigation, supervising a team of 5, which culminated in the successful prosecution of a serial offender.
• Collaborated with local businesses to establish a neighbourhood watch programme, improving surveillance and security awareness.
• Implemented an innovative traffic management system which decreased vehicular accidents in the area by 25%.
• Recognised with an award for outstanding public service after diffusing a potentially violent street confrontation without casualties.
• Conducted regular workshops on personal safety and crime prevention for schools and elderly residents, benefiting over 2,000 individuals.
• Expertly managed a team of 8 officers, consistently meeting departmental KPIs while maintaining high morale.
• Initiated a 'Cycle Safe' campaign that resulted in a 30% drop in bike thefts within the community.
• Spearheaded a joint task force with the Drug Enforcement Department, leading to a significant disruption of local narcotics distribution networks.
• Coordinated with local educators to implement a drug awareness curriculum, reducing underage substance abuse cases by 15%.
• Maintained an incident response time of under 4 minutes, demonstrating a strong commitment to community safety and emergency readiness.
• Facilitated inter-departmental communication, leading to the development of a unified crime database improving the resolution of cases by 10%.
• Developed a specialised training programme on cybercrime detection for fellow officers, significantly enhancing the police force's digital capabilities.
• Acted as a liaison with the Crown Prosecution Service, producing detailed and precise reports that increased conviction rates by 18%.
• Coordinated with international law enforcement agencies in a multi-national fraud case, reclaiming fraudulent transactions totalling £500,000.
• Oversaw the implementation of body-worn video technology across the force, promoting transparency and resulting in a 35% reduction in public complaints.
• Managed critical incident scenes, ensuring the safety of both civilians and officers while preserving vital evidence for investigation purposes.
• Pioneered a community policing initiative that fostered trust and cooperation between the police and a historically marginalised neighbourhood.
• Efficiently administered a public safety event for 50,000 attendees, strategically deploying resources to maintain order and prevent incidents.
• Provided expert testimony in court cases, which was crucial in securing the conviction of high-profile criminal cases.
• Leveraged advanced forensic training to process crime scenes, which increased the evidential yield by 40%.
• Implemented a department-wide fitness regimen that improved the physical performance standards of the force by 20%.
• Charged with the safety and coordination of VIP protection details during state visits and high-profile events.
• Initiated youth engagement programs focusing on legal education, which fostered mutual respect and reduced juvenile delinquency rates.

Lacking professional expertise: how to write your CV to highlight your best talents

Don't count on your lucky stars when you're applying for a role, where you happen to have less (or almost none) professional experience. Recruiters sometimes do hire inexperienced candidates if they're able to present their unique value from the get-go. So, instead of opting for the traditional, CV experience section:

• List any applicable expertise you happen to have - no matter if it's a part-time job , internship, or volunteer work. This would hint to recruiters that your profile is relevant;
• Focus your CV on your transferrable skills or talents you've obtained thanks to your whole life and work experience. In effect, you'll be spotlighting your value as a candidate;
• Separate more space for your applicable academic background and certificates to show you have the technical know-how;
• Ensure that within your objective, you've defined why you'll like the job and how you'll be the perfect match for it. Always ensure you've tailored your CV to individual applications.

Looking for more good examples for your first job ? We'll show you how other candidates, with less professional experience, have created their job-winning CVs.

• Promotions on CV: Where to Include Them?
• A Comprehensive Guide to Action Verbs in CVs for Job Seekers

Talk about any positive changes you helped bring about in your previous jobs, like improving a process or helping increase efficiency.

Describing your unique skill set using both hard skills and soft skills

Your police officer CV provides you with the perfect opportunity to spotlight your talents, and at the same time - to pass any form of assessment. Focusing on your skill set across different CV sections is the way to go, as this would provide you with an opportunity to quantify your achievements and successes. There's one common, very simple mistake, which candidates tend to make at this stage. Short on time, they tend to hurry and mess up the spelling of some of the key technologies, skills, and keywords. Copy and paste the particular skill directly from the job requirement to your CV to pass the Applicant Tracker System (ATS) assessment. Now, your CV skills are divided into:

• Technical or hard skills, describing your comfort level with technologies (software and hardware) . List your aptitude by curating your certifications, on the work success in the experience section, and technical projects. Use the dedicated skills section to provide recruiters with up to twelve technologies, that match the job requirements, and you're capable of using.
• People or soft skills provide you with an excellent background to communicate, work within a team, solve problems . Don't just copy-paste that you're a "leader" or excel at "analysis". Instead, provide tangible metrics that define your success inusing the particular skill within the strengths, achievements, summary/ objective sections.

Top skills for your police officer CV:

Law Enforcement

Criminal Investigation

Crime Prevention

Firearms Handling

Self-Defence

Emergency Response

Traffic Control

Evidence Collection

Interview and Interrogation Techniques

Communication

Problem Solving

Decision Making

Ethics and Integrity

Stress Management

Adaptability

Attention to Detail

Conflict Resolution

Public Relations

Order your skills based on the relevance to the role you're applying for, ensuring the most pertinent skills catch the employer's attention first.

Further professional qualifications for your police officer CV: education and certificates

As you're nearing the end of your police officer CV, you may wonder what else will be relevant to the role. Recruiters are keen on understanding your academic background, as it teaches you an array of hard and soft skills. Create a dedicated education section that lists your:

• applicable higher education diplomas or ones that are at a postgraduate level;
• diploma, followed up with your higher education institution and start-graduation dates;
• extracurricular activities and honours, only if you deem that recruiters will find them impressive.

Follow a similar logic when presenting your certificates. Always select ones that will support your niche expertise and hint at what it's like to work with you . Balance both technical certification with soft skills courses to answer job requirements and company values. Wondering what the most sought out certificates are for the industry? Look no further:

Use mini case studies or success stories in your CV to demonstrate how your skills have positively impacted previous roles or projects.

• CV Certifications - Tips, Examples & Template to Use in 2024
• How to Showcase Your Educational Achievements on CV: Examples, Templates, & Guide for 2024

Key takeaways

Here are five things you need to remember about writing your police officer CV for success:

• Sort your experience based on the reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent career items, to showcase how you've grown your career;
• Include within your CV header your relevant contact details, a headline that could spotlight your unique value, and a photo - if you're applying for roles outside the UK or US;
• Decide to use the CV summary, if you happen to have more professional experience, and an objective, if you want to showcase your career goals;
• Within the experience section, write your bullets using action verbs, skills, and success, instead of just merely listing your on-the-job responsibilities;
• Prove your technical skills, using your education and certificates, and your soft skills, with your achievements and strengths sections.

Looking to build your own Police Officer CV?

• CV Examples

Frequently asked questions about Police Officer CVs

What qualifications do i need to become a police officer, how should i format my police officer cv, what should i do if i have gaps in my work history.

Here’s When You Should Or Shouldn’t Add a Photo on Your CV

CV Structure: Most Common Formats and Attention-Keeping Sections

What Your CV Should Look Like in 2024

Crafting The Perfect CV Headline: Tips & Examples for 2024

How to Show Active Listening Skills On Your CV Through Your Experience

CV (Curriculum Vitae) Format [Examples & Templates for 2023]

• Terms of Service
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Preferences
• CV Templates
• How to Write a CV
• English (US)
• French (FR)
• German (DE)
• Spanish (ES)
• Swedish (SE)

© 2024 . All rights reserved.

Made with love by people who care.

How to Write a CV Personal Statement [+4 Real-life Examples]

Creating an effective CV takes time and close attention to detail. You've already included your jobs and experience , and now you want to allow the recruiter or hiring manager to understand the strategic value you can add.

This is when you need to utilize a personal statement at the top of your CV.

How to Write a CV Personal Statement [+4 Real-life Examples] 

What is a Personal Statement? 

A personal statement is a few brief and direct sentences at the top of your CV. The personal statement is also referred to as a career summary or personal mission statement.

This is used to grab the attention of the recruiter or hiring manager and summarizes essential experiences or training that you can bring to this position.

Why do I Need a Personal Statement?

A recruiter or hiring manager is tasked with sorting through an enormous amount of resumes every single day. A personal statement is a way to separate yourself from the other applicants.

This statement summarizes your experience and highlights your unique talents . The CV personal statement is meant to demonstrate why you are the perfect fit for the job. 

Even med students need a medical school personal statement , as it is what differentiates them from all the other students applying. Plus, it allows them to share their personal stories and objectives.

Where do I Start? 

Always begin by reading the job description carefully and thoroughly.

Your personal statement should be tailored to each job description, so it explicitly states the value you’ll bring to the position you are applying. A generic personal statement cannot do that. 

Once you have a solid handle on the job description, you can begin writing. It’s important to keep your personal statement brief, about 50-200 words will do.

Don’t forget that you have your whole cover letter to show some personality and include engaging content.

The personal statement should be a quick summary that highlights why you are the best person for the job. 

You’ll need to decide whether you are writing your personal statement in first- or third-person. This should follow how you've written the rest of your CV.

For example, if you've already written, “I grew and developed a team of 50 salespeople,” in your CV then you will want to keep your personal statement in first-person to match the prevailing style.

No matter what you choose, make sure that you keep it consistent throughout. Do not switch between first- and third-person as that will get confusing to the hiring manager.

Writing a personal statement for your CV in first-person does not mean you need to start every sentence with “I.”

There are ways to craft your personal statement to sound snappy, concise and personal, and here are a few examples to help inspire your personal statement. 

CV Personal Statement Examples

It doesn’t matter what chose as your desired career or how much experienc e you have, use these examples to drive the creation of your own personal statement.

You can take snippets from each or write something completely different. Always remember that your personal statement is a reflection of yourself and should align with your own personal goals and experience.

If these examples don’t fit your exact career, feel free to take some pointers and write yours from scratch. 

#1: Personal Statement Example for Recent Graduate CV

“As a recent graduate from university, with an honors degree in communications, I held several internships within leading organizations, including Bertelsmann. These internships enabled me to gain experience in the field and learn how to serve up valuable contributions in a fast-paced, professional environment.”

Explanation: This example should be customized to include the university you’ve graduated from and any relevant internships. A compelling personal statement always highlights relevant skills and experiences.

In this case, a recent graduate does not have extensive experience in the workforce, so soft skills like experiencing success in a fast-paced work environment and becoming a trusted team member become even more critical.

#2: Personal Statement Example for Returning to the Workforce CV

“A highly motivated and experienced office administrator, I am currently looking to resume my professional career after an extended hiatus to raise my family. Proficient in all Microsoft Office programs, I can lead meetings and work with clients to keep your office running smoothly and efficiently. After spending several years volunteering as an administrative worker for a local charity, I am committed to resuming my professional career on a full-time basis.”

Explanation: After time off from a career, it can be hard to break back into the market. This personal statement outlines the reason for the break, the relevant qualifications and what the applicant has been doing in between jobs.

Any volunteer experience becomes highly relevant when there is no concrete professional experience to draw upon, to demonstrate the use of those skills. 

#3: Personal Statement Example for a Career Change CV

“With over 15 years as a sales manager, I have extensive experience building high-functioning sales teams that consistently achieve budget numbers. In fact, my ability to grow talent led to a 20% increase in annual renewals across the board. Now, after 15 years, I am seeking new challenges to flex my marketing muscles in a fast-paced environment.” 

Explanation: When changing careers , it's essential to highlight skills that are transferable between industries.

In this case, leadership and team-building experience can apply to any industry. Homing in on concrete numbers and percentages increases credibility when applying for a position.

The applicant ends with the reason behind the desired career change. This part is not necessary but may be appealing to some hiring managers who are wondering what the impetus for the career change.

#4: Personal Statement Example for a Experienced Professional CV

“As a friendly, professional and highly trained educator, I am passionate about teaching and have an innate ability to understand student’s needs. Creating a safe and productive environment for optimal learning is my top priority. I’ve worked as a teacher for nearly 10 years in a variety of subjects and my experience and skill set make me the perfect fit for your team.”

Explanation: With more experience comes more skills and a better idea of strengths and weaknesses. Showcasing your passion for the industry is a great way to begin a personal statement, as it shows the hiring manager your dedication to the craft. 

A personal statement can be written in many different ways, but it is ultimately up to you to determine what skills you want to highlight for your chosen position.

You can follow these examples or take learnings from each to contribute towards your personal statement. 

If you understand the job you are applying for and know the unique skill set that you bring to the table, you will have a stellar personal statement for your CV that will get you across the table from the hiring manager in no time.  

Suggested Reading:

• How to Write a CV (Curriculum Vitae) in 2024 [31+ Examples]
• 43+ Resume Tips and Tricks to Land Your Next Job
• 150+ Must-Have Skills for Any Resume  [With Tips + Tricks]
• How to Answer “Tell Me About Yourself”

To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.

• CV Templates
• Cover Letter Examples

Police officer CV template

Get a CV in 5 minutes with our CV Builder

It’s easy to use and you get access to lots of professional content to add.

Police Officer CV template

Samantha Lewis Dayjob Ltd 120 Vyse Street Birmingham B18 6NF T: 0121 638 0026 M: 0044 121 638 0026 E:  [email protected]

PERSONAL SUMMARY

Well presented, highly personable individual with a keen sense of justice and drive to enforce the law and provide reassurance to the public. A hardworking, pro-active and experienced police officer with an upbeat and positive attitude, who possesses a good team spirit and the ability to see a job through until it is completed. Highly motivated and able to exercise independent judgment in achieving the police authorities vision and mission.

Now looking to further an already successful career by working for a large, exciting and rewarding police authority. Police officer CV template

CAREER HISTORY

Local Police Authority POLICE OFFICER     –    May 2008 – Present Involved in working closely in collaboration with the local communities and civil organisations to maintain law and order. Also responsible for responding to emergence calls from members of the public and fostering good relationships with local communities.

• Taking children to school and bringing them back.
• Protecting local people and their property as well as helping to reduce and solve crimes.
• Checking for outstanding warrants for wanted people.
• Helping to identify those responsible for crimes and then bringing prosecutions against them.
• Serving warrants.
• Investigating reports of anti social behaviour.
• Mediating in domestic disputes.
• Involved in helping to keep the peace at demonstrations, marches, protests, football matches etc.
• Gathering evidence at the scene of a crime.
• Assisting in riot control situations.
• Transporting prisoners from one police station to another.
• Explaining the law to members of the public.
• Keeping up to date with the movement and activities of known local criminals.
• Handling paper work after a arrest, for instance writing crime reports.
• Interviewing witnesses and also suspects.
• Collecting and then recording lost or found property.
• Attending court cases and also giving evidence there.
• Occasionally pursuing and running after fleeing suspects on foot.
• Conducting patrols in the local neighbourhood, by care foot or on bicycle.
• Assisting traffic wardens and government agencies in carrying out their duties.
• Arresting criminals and offenders and reading them their rights.
• Investigating suspicious circumstances or incidents.
• Controlling the traffic after a road accident.
• Working in partnership with the neighbourhood officer to target known offenders.
• At times of heightened security undertaking ‘stop searches’ of suspicious vehicles and individuals.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Competencies:

• Disciplined enough to only use appropriate and necessary force when making arrests or carrying out duties.
• Up to date with all current laws and regulations relating to dealing with the public.
• Fully able to operate law enforcement equipment like hand held radios, fingerprint equipment, batons and sprays.
• Ability to understand and carry out written and oral instructions and procedures.
• Able to be tactful and diplomatic in sensitive situations.
• Reacting calmly to emergency situations.
• Person of integrity.
• Physically fit with excellent unaided eyesight.
• Can work effectively as part of a team.
• Good moral character.

KEY COMPETENCIES AND SKILLS

Surveillance Child protection VIP protection Traffic enforcement CPR and advanced first aid Community focused Problem solving

ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS

Evesham North College           2005 – 2008 BA (Hons) Law

Coventry North School               2003 – 2005 A levels:     Maths (C)   English (C)   Physics (B)

REFERENCES  – Available on request.

Police Officer cover letter examples Police Officer cover letter Police Officer cover letter 1 Police Officer cover letter 2 Police Officer cover letter 3

How to become a Police Officer How to become a police officer

Prison Officer CV Prison officer CV template

Security Officer CV Security officer CV template

More CV and cover letter links Cover letter examples CV template examples

Career advice How to write a CV Interview questions and answers

Corporate Lawyer CVs Corporate Lawyer CV template 1 Corporate Lawyer CV template 2 Corporate Lawyer CV template 3

Corporate Lawyer cover letters Corporate Lawyer cover letter example Corporate Lawyer cover letter example 1 Corporate Lawyer cover letter example 2 Corporate Lawyer cover letter example 3

Corporate Lawyer resume Corporate Lawyer resume

Lawyer resume Lawyer resume 1 Lawyer resume 2 Lawyer resume 3

Lawyer cover letter Lawyer cover letter 1 Lawyer cover letter 2 Lawyer cover letter 3

Legal CVs Legal CV template samples

Paralegal resume Paralegal resume sample

Paralegal CV Paralegal CV sample

Legal secretary cover letter Legal secretary cover letter

Barrister CV Barrister CV template

Attorney Attorney resume Attorney cover letter

Trainee solicitor CV Trainee solicitor CV sample

Legal Assistant CV Legal Assistant CV

Training and academic links Criminology degree courses

More Officer templates Information Officer resume template Clerical Officer CV template Housing officer CV sample Human resources officer CV sample Prison officer CV template

• CV Writing Services

Leaving the Police Force: Writing Your CV

It can be difficult to reframe your career experience when transitioning from one career to another. After an extended period of time - perhaps years - within one particular career, many of us may lack the confidence to promote ourselves in a new field. Perhaps we doubt our ability to step out of our comfort zone and enter a new employment sector. Focusing on transferable skills and the layout of a CV are key parts of navigating this task. This article focuses on writing a CV for those coming out of the police service.

Laying out your CV

“Transitioning out of the police force may move you into employment sectors you feel under-qualified for”

Getting started

Who you are.

Avoid "Hi, my name is George" and instead write one or two sentences summarising your career track record, and what kind of employer you will be. An example could be: "As a hard-working and experienced former police officer, I am dependable, trustworthy, and confident in my ability to support my colleagues, and my community. After helping the [insert location] for [insert length of service], I hope to branch into new sectors of employment to continue developing my skillset. "

Prove your value

Evidence why you are suitable for the job role you are applying to. Highlight achievements that you feel are relevant - specifically ones that will be beneficial to you in your new role. If you were team manager within the police force, describe how long and for how many people. If you participated in training courses that will be useful to your new job, list them here. Your personal statement is your opportunity to shine.

Transferable skills

Be it business management, community support, project leadership, or consultancy, the opportunities are endless for end-of-career police officers. One of the most important aspects of writing your CV is thinking about the transferable skills you have accumulated during your years of service. Think about the job role you occupied as a police officer, and write a list describing the responsibilities you had. Consider the skills you have developed through completing these responsibilities. For example, a police officer will likely have developed the following transferable skills:

• Working under pressure, and remaining calm and level-headed
• Quick thinking and adaptable
• Driven and focused
• Goal-oriented and able to multitask
• Ability to work well within a group/team and collaborate effectively
• Ability to work well as an individual, and remain motivated and task-oriented
• Leadership skills
• Trustworthiness

Being able to identify these transferable skills (and this list is only some of the many skills accrued during your time within the police force) will help you develop a skill list to strengthen your CV.

Education and qualifications

Transitioning out of the police force may move you into employment sectors you feel under-qualified for. It is important to evidence the education you have achieved and other certifications you have achieved.

In higher level employment, your A-Level grades are not always that important. Instead, focus on any university qualifications you may have. Name the institution you graduated from, and the date of your graduation. And, if relevant, maybe list some of the courses you undertook during your studies (for example, if you have a degree in Sociology and you are applying for a job in your local council, it may be worth listing that you completed a course in "Understanding Social Problems").

Qualifications and certificates outside of education are also important to list. Any medical training undertaken during your time in the police force - CPR, First Aid and High-Performance Driver Training - may well be relevant to your new role. Be sure to include the completion date to keep your CV as up to date as possible.

Confidence is key

The most important part when writing a CV when coming out of the police force is confidence. Following these few easy steps will have hopefully helped encourage you to take the first steps in applying for new employment. Career changes can be challenging. But producing a "functional" CV that promotes your skillsets and experiences will help promote your value to future employees.

With 20+ years of experience writing CVs, it still puts a smile on my face when I hear a client has secured an interview Lee Tonge - Founder and Director

Email: [email protected] Phone: (01904) 902 102

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Order Process

Why Us? CV Writing Articles

Savings & Investments

• No1 CopperPot Credit Union Savings
• Car Insurance
• Home Insurance
• Breakdown Cover
• Renters’ Insurance
• NARPO Car Insurance
• NARPO Home Insurance
• NARPO Breakdown
• Life Insurance

Mortgages And Moving House

• Moving Home and Remortgaging
• Mortgage Clinics

Personal Loans

• No1 CopperPot Credit Union Personal Loans
• How we can help you
• Retirement Centre
• Respite Care
• Budgeting for your future
• Managing Debt
• Benefits of NARPO membership
• Life Planner
• Money tips for teens

For Your Community

• How we help as a Business
• Police Bravery Awards
• National Police Wellbeing Programme
• Careers with Police Mutual

This is your number one sales tool. Get yours up-to-date or start one from scratch and you'll be ready to apply for your next role.

A good CV needs to be positive and make an impact. So you need to make sure yours is presented clearly and is easy to read. One way to do this is to use bold headings and bullet points.

Some general rules:

• Keep it to no more than two pages in length.
• Use good quality A4 paper.
• Check for errors and spelling mistakes. And then check it again.
• Make sure you tailor your skills and experience to match the job you're applying for.
• Cut the waffle and stick to the facts. Short sentences and bullet points make more impact.

Have a look at out our   example CV   for some ideas.

Need more help?

Take a look online, there are plenty of sample CVs available to inspire you. You can also find lots of   useful information on the  National Careers Service website . 

Personal details

It sounds obvious, but first of all, make sure you include your name, address, mobile number and an email address. If you haven't got an email address, now's the time to get one. There are plenty of free web-based services available like   Yahoo   and   Hotmail   -  there are no excuses.

Personal profile section

This is your chance to grab the employer's attention. A strong statement will make them want to keep on reading and could set you aside from other applicants. Use positive language and make sure you use this space to really sell yourself.

• Start with your most recent position first and work backwards. If you've held many positions in the past, concentrate on those over the last four or five years.
• Include the Force you worked for, your rank (e.g. PC) and also the roles you performed within that rank (e.g. Custody Sergeant, Traffic Officer, Neighbourhood Team etc.).
• Provide the dates you held each position by month and year. If you're not sure, it's worth checking to make sure you get it right.
• Include some brief details about what your role entailed and your key achievements. If you did something that made a difference, here's your chance to share the details. Think about using active verbs like 'led', initiated', 'produced', 'organised', 'achieved' etc.
• Use bullet points if you can, so your CV can be scan read without missing any of the important details.
• Use this section to tie in the skills you have with those asked for in the job description.
• List your key skills and give some brief context.
• Include any IT skills you have and your level of understanding e.g. highly competent is MS Office Word, PowerPoint and Excel.
• Provide details of any foreign languages you may have knowledge of and whether it's a basic or fluent ability.

Skills often associated with members of the Police Service:

• Strong customer focus.
• Effective team working.
• High levels of problem solving and investigating.
• Effective communicator - written and verbal, on all levels.
• Respect for diversity.
• Skilled negotiator.
• Resilience and a positive approach to work.
• Takes personal responsibility for actions.
• Leading and developing a team.
• Ability to influence positive outcomes.

You should always send a covering letter with your CV. It gives you the opportunity to explain why you're the right person for the job and allows you to add more detail than your CV can provide.

Your letter should:

• Be addressed to the right person.
• Reference the job you're applying for and where you heard about it.
• Be typed in the same style as your CV (unless the advertisement asks for a hand written letter).
• Show that you have researched the company, its products and the marketplace.
• Use positive statements.
• Reinforce the skills you can bring to the role. Make sure these are matched to the job description.
• Explain why you want the job.
• Close well, perhaps saying that you look forward to seeing them in the future.
• Checked carefully for errors. To be sure ask someone else to check it too - it's very easy to miss your own mistakes.

Don't be tempted to use the same covering letter for each job you apply for. You'll make a more positive impact if every letter is tailored to the job.

You can find lots of useful   information on the  National Careers Service website . 

Education section

• Start with the last qualification you achieved and work backwards.
• Give education or course start dates by year. If you're not sure, take the time to check and get it right.

Professional training

• Include any external and internal Police Service courses you've attended.

This is a 'nice to include' section, if you have the space. Use it as an opportunity to showcase your personality and if you can, try and tie it in with the skills requested for the job.

Include details of your hobbies and interests, and any voluntary roles.

Delivered to your inbox every month...

CV personal statement examples

If you want to secure job interview, you need a strong personal statement at the top of your CV.

Your CV personal statement is a short paragraph which sits at the very top of your CV – and it’s aim is to summarise the benefits of hiring you and encourage employers to read your CV in full.

In this guide I have included 17 CV personal statement examples from a range of professions and experience levels, plus a detailed guide of how to write your own personal statement that will get you noticed by employers

CV templates 

17 CV personal statement examples

To start this guide, I have included 10 examples of good personal statements, to give you an idea of how a personal statement should look , and what should be included.

Note: personal statements are generally used by junior candidates – if you are experienced, check out our CV profile examples instead.

Graduate CV personal statement (no experience)

Although this  graduate has no paid work experience, they compensate for it by showcasing all of the skills and knowledge the have gained during their studies, and demonstrating how they apply their knowledge in academic and personal projects.

When you have little or no experience, it’s important to draw out transferable workplace skills from your studies and extracurricular work, to showcase them to employers.

Graduate CV personal statement (part time freelance experience)

This candidate has graduated with a degree in biochemistry but actually wants to start a career in digital marketing after providing some digital freelance services to fund their studies.

In this case, they haven’t made much mention of their studies because they aren’t relevant to the digital marketing agencies they are applying to. Instead they have focused their personal statement around their freelance work and passion for the digital field – although they still mention the fact they are degree educated to prove their academic success.

School leaver CV personal statement (no experience)

This candidate is 16 years old and has no work experience whatsoever, but they compensate for this by detailing their academic achievements that relate to the roles they are applying for (maths and literacy are important requirements in finance and accountancy roles).

They also add some info on their extracurricular activities and school work-placements, to strengthen this student CV further.

    Top tips for writing a CV personal statement

• Thoroughly research the jobs and companies you are planning to apply for to identify the type of candidate they are looking for – try to reflect that in your personal statement
• Don’t be afraid to brag a little – include some of your most impressive achievements from education, work or personal life
• Focus on describing the benefits an employer will get from hiring you. Will you help them to get more customers? Improve their workplace? Save them time and money?
• If you have no work experience, demonstrate transferable workplace skills from your education, projects, or even hobbies

School leaver CV personal statement (part time experience)

Although this person has only just left school, they have also undertaken some part-time work in a call centre alongside their studies.

To make the most of this experience, they have combined their academic achievements with their workplace exposure in this personal statement.

By highlighting their GCSE results, summer programme involvement, work experience and expressing their ambitions to progress within sales, this candidate really makes an appealing case for hiring them.

College leaver CV personal statement (no experience)

This candidate has left college with good grades, but does not yet have any work experience.

To compensate for the lack of workplace exposure, they have made their A level results prominent and highlighted skills and experience which would benefit the employers they are targeting.

Any recruiter reading this profile can quickly understand that this candidate has great academic achievements, a passion for IT and finance and the ability to transfer their skills into an office environment.

College student CV personal statement (freelance experience)

As this student has picked up a small amount of freelance writing work during their studies, they have made sure to brag about it in their personal statement.

They give details on their relevant A level studies to show the skills they are learning, and boost this further by highlighting the fact that they have been applying these skills in a real-life work setting by providing freelance services.

They also include key action verbs that recruiters will be looking for , such as creative writing, working to deadlines, and producing copy.

Academic CV personal statement

Aside from junior candidates, the only other people who might use a personal statement, are academic professionals; as their CV’s tend to be more longer and detailed than other professions.

This candidate provides a high level overview of their field of study, length of experience, and the roles they have held within universities.

School leaver CV personal statement with and sports experience

Although this person has no work experience, they are still able to show employers the value of hiring them by selling their other achievements and explaining how they could benefit an organisation.

They expand on their sports club involvement to demonstrate their teamwork, leadership skills, communication and motivation, which are all important traits in the workplace, and will be looked upon favourably by recruiters and hiring managers.

They also draw upon their future plans to study business studies and take a part time job, to further prove their ambition and dedication.

History graduate CV personal statement

This history graduate proves their aptitude for both academic achievement and workplace aptitude by showcasing valuable skills from their degree and voluntary work.

They do this by breaking down the key requirements for each and showing how their skills could be beneficial for future employers, such as listening, communication, and crisis management.

They also describe how their ability to balance studies alongside voluntary work has not only boosted their knowledge and skills, but also given excellent time management and organisational skills – which are vital assets to any employer.

Law graduate CV personal statement

This legal graduate makes the most from their work university work placements by using it to bulk out the contents of their CV personal statement.

They include their degree to show they have the necessary qualifications for legal roles, which is crucial, but more importantly, they showcase how they applied their legal skills within a real-life work setting.

They give a brief overview of the types of legal professionals they have been working alongside and the type of work they have been carrying out – this is all it takes to get the attention of recruiters and show employers they have what it takes to fulfil roles in the legal sector.

Medical student CV personal statement

This medical student proves their fit for the role by showcasing the key skills they have gained from their studies and their work experience placements.

In just these few sentences, they are able to highlight the vast amount of experience they have across different disciplines in the industry, something which is particularly important in the medical sector.

As they have not graduated yet and are still studying, they have provided proof of their most recent grades. This can give the recruiter some indication as to the type of grade they could be graduating with in the near future.

Masters student CV personal statement

This masters student has started by specifying their area of study, in this case, accounting, and given details about the specific areas of finance they are most interested in. This can hint towards their career goals and passions.

They have then carefully listed some of the key areas of accounting and finance that they are proficient in. For example, business finance, advanced corporate finance and statistics.

They have also outlined some of the transferable skills needed for accounting roles that employers will be looking out for, such as communication, attention to detail and analytical skills.

Finance student CV personal statement

As this finance student has recently undertaken some relevant work experience, they’ve made sure to shout about this in their personal profile.

But more than this, they have included a list of some of the important finance skills they gained as a result of this work experience – for example, financial reporting, processing invoices and month-end reconciliations.

Plus, through power words and phrases such as ‘prevent loss’ and ‘ improve upon accuracy and efficiency’, they have also showcased how they can apply these skills in a workplace setting to benefit the potential employer.

Internship  CV personal statement

This digital marketing professional has started their personal profile by outlining their most relevant qualifications and work experience, most notably their freelance role as a content manager.

They have also provided examples of some of the key marketing skills that potential employers might be looking for, including very detailed examples of the platforms and tools they are proficient in – for example, LinkedIn, Twitter and Pinterest.

They have then closed their statement by giving a detailed description of the type of role or opportunity they are looking for. In this case, an in-house position in a marketing company.

Graduate career changer personal statement

Switching careers as a graduate can be tough. Especially when it comes to writing a personal statement that will attract employers in your new chosen field.

This candidate is looking to move from history teaching into journalism, so they have created a statement which briefly mentions their current workplace, but mainly focuses on highlighting transferable skills which are relevant to journalism. They achieve this by discussing the writing skills they use in their current role, and mentioning their hobby of writing – including some publications they have been featured in for extra brownie points.

Business management graduate personal statement

This business management proves their ability to work within a junior business management position by swiftly highlighting their impressive degree (to ensure it is not missed) and summarising some of the real-life experience they have gained in management during their university placements and volunteering. They do not let their lack of paid work experience, stop them demonstrating their valuable skills.

PhD graduate

PhD graduate roles attract a lot of competition, so it’s important that your CV contains a personal statement that will quickly impress and attract recruiters.

This candidate provides a short-but-comprehensive overview of their academic achievements, whilst demonstrating their exceptional level of knowledge in research, languages and publication writing.

By highlighting a number of skills and abilities that are in high-demand in the academic workplace, this CV is very likely to get noticed and land interviews.

How to write a personal statement for your CV

Now that you’ve seen what a personal statement should look like and the type of content it should contain, follow this detailed guide to one for your own CV – and start racking those interviews up.

Guide contents

What is a CV personal statement?

Cv personal statement or cv profile, personal statement format, what to include in a cv personal statement.

• Personal statement mistakes

How to write persuasively

A personal statement is a short paragraph at the top of your CV which gives employers an overview of your education, skills and experience

It’s purpose is to capture the attention of busy recruiters and hiring managers when your CV is first opened – encouraging them to read the rest of it.

You achieve this by writing a tailored summary of yourself that explains your suitability for the roles you are applying for at a very high level, and matches your target job descriptions .

One question candidates often ask me is , “what is the difference between a personal statement and a CV profile?”

To be honest, they are almost the same – they are both introductory paragraphs that sit at the top of your CV… but there are 2 main differences

A personal statement tends to be used more by junior candidates (graduates, school leavers etc.) and is relatively long and detailed.

A CV profile tends to be favoured by more experienced candidates , and is shorter in length than a personal statement.

Note: If you are an experienced candidate, you may want to switch over to my CV profile writing guide , or example CV profiles page.

To ensure you grab recruiters’ attention with your personal statement, lay it out in the following way.

Positioning

You need to ensure that your personal statement sits at the very top of your CV, and all of it should be totally visible to readers, without the need to scroll down the page.

Do this by reducing the top page margin and minimising the space taken up by your contact details.

This will ensure that your whole personal statement can be seen, as soon as your CV is opened.

We have a Word CV template which can help you to get this right.

Size/length

Your personal statement needs to contain enough detail to provide an introduction to your skills and knowledge, but not so much detail that it bores readers.

To strike the right balance, anything between 8-15 lines of text is perfect – and sentences should be sharp and to-the-point.

As with the whole of your CV or resume , your personal statement should be written in a simple clean font at around size 10-12 to ensure that it can be read easily by all recruiters and employers.

Keep the text colour simple , ensuring that it contrasts the background (black on white is best) and break it into 2 or even 3 paragraphs for a pleasant reading experience.

It should also be written in a punchy persuasive tone, to help you sell yourself and increase your chances of landing interviews , I cover how to do this in detail further down the guide.

Quick tip: A poorly written CV will fail to impress recruiters and employers. Use our quick-and-easy CV Builder to create a winning CV in minutes with professional CV templates and pre-written content for every industry.

Once you have the style and format of your personal statement perfected, you need to fill it with compelling content that tells recruiters that your CV is worth reading.

Here’s what needs to go into your personal statement…

Before you start writing your personal statement, it’s crucial that you research your target roles to find out exactly what your new potential employers are looking for in a candidate.

Run a search for your target jobs on one of the major job websites , look through plenty of adverts and make a list of the candidate requirements that frequently appear.

This research will show you exactly what to include in your personal statement in order to impress the recruiters who will be reading it.

Education and qualifications are an important aspect of your personal statement, especially if you are a junior candidate.

You should highlight your highest and most relevant qualifications, whether that is a degree, A levels or GCSEs. You could potentially go into some more detail around modules, papers etc. if they are relevant to the roles you are applying for.

It’s important that you discuss the experience you have gained in your personal statement, to give readers an idea of the work you are comfortable undertaking.

This can of course be direct employed work experience, but it doesn’t have to be.

You can also include:

• School/college Uni work placements
• Voluntary work
• Personal projects
• Hobbies/interests

As with all aspects of your CV , the content should be tailored to match the requirements of your target roles.

Whilst discussing your experience, you should touch upon skills used, industries worked in, types of companies worked for, and people you have worked with.

Where possible, try to show the impact your actions have made. E.g . A customer service agent helps to make sales for their employer.

Any industry-specific knowledge you have that will be useful to your new potential employers should be made prominent within your personal statement.

For example

• Knowledge of financial regulations will be important for accountancy roles
• Knowledge of IT operating systems will be important for IT roles
• Knowledge of the national curriculum will be important for teachers

You should also include some information about the types of roles you are applying for, and why you are doing so. Try to show your interest and passion for the field you are hoping to enter, because employers want to hire people who have genuine motivation and drive in their work.

This is especially true if you don’t have much work experience, as you need something else to compensate for it.

CV personal statement mistakes

The things that you omit from your personal statement can be just as important as the things you include.

Try to keep the following out of your personal statement..

Irrelevant info

Any information that doesn’t fall into the requirements of your target roles can be cut out of your personal statement. For example, if you were a professional athlete 6 years ago, that’s great – but it won’t be relevant if you’re applying to advertising internships, so leave it out.

Generic clichés

If you are describing yourself as a “ dynamic team player with high levels of motivation and enthusiasm” you aren’t doing yourself any favours.

These cliché terms are vastly overused and don’t provide readers with any factual details about you – so keep them to a minimum.

Stick to solid facts like education, skills , experience, achievements and knowledge.

If you really want to ensure that your personal statement makes a big impact, you need to write in a persuasive manner.

So, how do you so this?

Well, you need to brag a little – but not too much

It’s about selling yourself and appearing confident, without overstepping the mark and appearing arrogant.

For example, instead of writing.

“Marketing graduate with an interest in entering the digital field”

Be creative and excite the reader by livening the sentence up like this,

“Marketing graduate with highest exam results in class and a passion for embarking on a long and successful career within digital”

The second sentence is a much more interesting, makes the candidate appear more confident, throws in some achievements, and shows off a wider range of writing skills.

Quick tip: A poorly written CV will fail to impress recruiters and employers. Use our quick-and-easy CV Builder to create a winning CV in minutes with professional templates and pre-written content for every industry.

Your own personal statement will be totally unique to yourself, but by using the above guidelines you will be able to create one which shows recruiters everything they need.

Remember to keep the length between 10-20 lines and only include the most relevant information for your target roles.

You can also check our school leaver CV example , our best CV templates , or our library of example CVs from all industries.

Good luck with the job hunt!