Essential Sheriff Interview Questions & Answers:

1. What's your greatest weakness?

I've never been very comfortable with public speaking - which as you know, can be a hindrance in this field. Realizing this was a problem, I asked my previous department if I could enroll in a speech workshop. I took the class, and was able to overcome my lifelong fear. Since then, I've given several safety presentations to school children across the county. I still don't love it, but no one else can tell!

2. Sheriff what salary are you looking for?

I'm more interested in the role itself than the pay. That said, I'd expect to be paid the appropriate range for this job, based on my five years of experience. I also think a fair salary would bear in mind the high cost of living here in New York City.

3. How to explain your gap in employment?

My work is important to me, so I won't be satisfied with any old job. Instead of rushing to accept the first thing that comes my way, I'm taking my time and being selective to make sure my next position is the right one.

4. Why do you want to work here as Sheriff?

This is one tool interviewers use to see if you have done your homework. You should never attend an interview unless you know about the company, its direction and the industry in which it plays. If you have done your research, this question gives you an opportunity to show initiative and demonstrate how your experience and qualifications match the company's needs.

5. What are your salary expectations as Sheriff?

This is one of the hardest questions, particularly for those with little experience. The first thing to do before going to your interview is to research the salary range in your field to get an idea of what you should be making. Steer clear of discussing salary specifics before receiving a job offer. Let the interviewer know that you will be open to discussing fair compensation when the time comes. If pressed for a more specific answer, always give a range, rather than a specific number.

6. Tell me about a strength you have?

This isn't something like "I can benchpress 500 pounds." What about your character is illustrated in a trait. Are you a hard worker? Are you full of integrity and honor? Do you have a personal story that illustrates that trait in concrete terms.

7. What are your greatest weaknesses as Sheriff?

The secret to answering this question is being honest about a weakness, but demonstrating how you have turned it into a strength. For example, if you had a problem with organization in the past, demonstrate the steps you took to more effectively keep yourself on track. This will show that you have the ability to recognize aspects of yourself that need improvement, and the initiative to make yourself better.

8. Why do you want be a police officer?

This question is seeking to clarify why the individual is applying for a position within the department and if the individual has realistic expectations regarding a law enforcement career. As they listen to the candidate's response, the assessors will be seeking to identify those persons who may be thrill seekers or have ulterior motives.

When responding, broad, idealistic statements such as "I want to make a difference" or "Giving back to the community" should be avoided. Rather, this question should elicit a personalized statement that represents their motivation for applying with the department. For example, some candidates may seek a job that allows them to work outside and to be involved in different activities everyday.

In other instances, the officer may have experienced a negative event such as a family member who died as a result of domestic violence or close friends who destroyed their lives with drugs. When responding, the individual should describe his/her motivation to be an officer and how working in the agency will help satisfy this need.

9. Why are you leaving your current job as Sheriff?

I've learned a lot from my current role, but now I'm looking for a new challenge, to broaden my horizons and to gain new skill-sets - all of which I see potential for in this department.

10. Sheriff tell us about yourself?

This introductory statement serves as a smooth transition into more focused inquiries and provides the candidate with an opportunity to provide the interview board with information that will set them apart. Too often candidates begin their response with a long recitation of their name, age, and other mundane information the assessors already know.

The best response begins with an appreciation for being allowed to participate in the interview followed by a short description of work and volunteer experience and advanced education completed. The goal is to grab the raters' attention by demonstrating how the individual will make an exceptional officer who adds value to the organization.