The strategic effectiveness of a police, fire, corrections, transit and port security department depends first and foremost upon the abilities of its command staff. Will the commanders you hire or promote possess the necessary psychological attributes to manage the many intellectual and emotional challenges which are so much a part of the leadership role? When sound judgment and split second decision making are required for effective intervention, when cooperation and teamwork are necessary for collective operations—will your command staff be effective? When personnel issues confront them, will they demonstrate incisive leadership and tact? Will the command staff be open to input from, and work responsively with city, state, and regional officials? Will they possess the personality attributes to interact effectively with various citizens of the city/town and be well regarded ambassadors in the interface with private as well as regional agencies?
Comprehensive psychological screening of the applicants for the position of police, fire, corrections, transit and port security leaders of various ranks can help provide the answers to these questions. Chandler Psychological Services has conducted numerous screenings of individuals applying to command positions.