personal responsibility

[bartholomew]

Hi there

I was wondering if you could help me. I am going to have an interview (police force) and one of the competencies that I will be tested on is personal responsibility.

I have got my own examples, but I'd rather ask you what you mean by that and what are the best examples to talk about.

Any help much appreciated.

Bart

[bmwsec]

Bart,
One good way of getting the information you require is to do the same as my Son did when he joined fifteen years ago. Find yourself a helpful serving Police Officer, he was so good that our son walked all of his exams fairly easily.

[trgch]

Below is list of positive and negative indicators for personal responsibility. If your examples are geared to demonstrate those behaviours then you should have no problems. The list comes form the National Police Competency Framework

Positive Indicators

Takes personal responsibility for own actions.
Takes on tasks without having to be asked.
Uses initiative.
Takes action to resolve problems and fulfill own responsibilities.
Keeps promises and does not let colleagues down.
Takes pride in own work.
Is conscientious in completing work on time.
Follows things through to a satisfactory conclusion.
Shows enthusiasm about own role.
Focuses on a task even if it is routine.
Improves own job-related knowledge and keeps it up to date.
Is open, honest and genuine, standing up for what is right.

Negative Indicators

Passes responsibility upwards inappropriately.
Is not concerned about letting others down.
Will not deal with issues, just hopes that they will go away.
Blames others rather than admitting to mistakes or looking for help.
Is unwilling to take on responsibility.
Puts in the minimum effort that is needed to get by.
Shows a negative and disruptive attitude.
Shows little energy or enthusiasm for work.
Expresses a cynical attitude to the organisation and their job.
Gives up easily when faced with problems.
Fails to recognise personal weaknesses and development needs.
Makes little or no attempt to develop self or keep up to date.