Navigating the NYPD Interview: A Policing Aspirant's Guide

When applying to join the New York Police Department (NYPD), the prospect can be daunting. One of the crucial questions that interviewers consistently ask is, “Why do you want to be a cop?” This article aims to demystify this question and guide aspiring police officers in providing a compelling and thoughtful answer.

General Expectations and Test Questions

The NYPD interview is not just about your desire to serve the community. Interviewers are also assessing your judgment, patience, and ability to handle stress. For example, back in the 1980s, they would ask questions that tested your ability to operate under pressure. A typical question was to count backward from 100 by nines. This wasn't meant to test your arithmetic skills but rather your ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.

Comprehensive Approach to Motivations

The reflexive answer that many candidates give is, "I want to help people." While admirable, this answer can fall flat under scrutiny. The NYPD is looking for candidates who can articulate specific reasons and motivations. Tim Dees, in his article, advises against this generic response and encourages candidates to delve deeper into their personal experiences and desires.

Specific Examples and Personal Stories

One compelling way to respond to the "why do you want to be a cop" question is to share a personal story. For instance, if you lost a friend to a drunk driver, you might want to join a traffic unit to help deter drunk driving. Or if you grew up in the city and witnessed violent crimes, you might explain a desire to help eliminate violence from your community.

Uniqueness of Policing as a Career

Many candidates fail to recognize the unique aspects of a policing career. While there are indeed various ways to help people, policing offers a unique blend of challenges and rewards. It's not just about helping; it's about making a tangible difference in your neighborhood, often in real-time.

The NYPD Aspirant's Toolkit

To provide a better answer than the common "I want to help people," consider the following specific points:

Fun and Variety: Much of the job is about doing things that most people never get to experience. This uniqueness can be a significant draw for aspiring officers. Strong Companionship: Working with solid, reliable colleagues who share the same values offers a unique sense of camaraderie and support. Brotherhood/Sisterhood: The concept of a close-knit community of officers who share pride and mutual respect is a powerful motivator. Financial Incentives: The salary benefits and pension plans are often more favorable compared to other industries with similar educational requirements. Personal Fulfillment: The ability to positively impact your community by making immediate, visible changes often outweighs the challenges of the job.

Real-World Examples and Statistics

For a patrol officer, the ability to enhance the quality of life in a neighborhood is perhaps the most fulfilling aspect of the job. For example, a patrol officer can address problems quickly and effectively, such as relocating homeless individuals or apprehending suspicious characters. This immediate and visible impact on the community is something that many police officers find deeply rewarding.

Conclusion

The NYPD interview question of "why do you want to be a cop" is designed to elicit a deep and thoughtful response. By providing specific and personal motivations, candidates can stand out and demonstrate their genuine commitment to the role. Remember, it's not just about helping; it's about making a difference, and doing so in a way that no other career can match.