NCJ Number
122829
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 57 Issue: 2 Dated: (February 1990) Pages: 47-49
Date Published
1990
Length
3 pages
Annotation
The key to insuring the long-term productivity of police veterans lies with the supervisor who must devise techniques to motivate veterans and preserve their effectiveness as valuable members of the police force.
Abstract
Police veterans know that the police organization constantly changes, but they still experience a certain level of discomfort during supervisory transitions. New supervisors must create a cooperative working atmosphere and supportive, loyal employees. This can be accomplished by allowing police officer input to decisionmaking processes, communicating with employees openly and honestly, being firm but not intransigent, praising publicly and criticizing privately, rewarding positive behaviors, refraining from unnecessary demonstrations of authority, and sharing credit for good work. Supervisors must establish specific, measurable objectives for both new and veteran police officers and must be reasonable in their expectations. An even-tempered approach to supervision is essential, as well as recognition of burnout among veterans.