Hello,

I just graduated with my bachelors degree in Organizational Security Management/ Criminal Justice... I am interested in becoming a probation officer... My problem is I have 0 experience in law enforcement, and even though I am applying for all "entry level" probation positions, I keep getting turned down because of lack of experience.  I do not have law enforcement experience but I do have years of experience dealing with the public, handling difficult situations with regard to social interaction (management experience), and I have years of experience in report writing and documentation... all of this is detailed within my resume.... what can I do to at least get an interview? 

Does a local Police Department or Sheriff's Office have a reserve/volunteer program.  Good way to get your foot in the door and get some practical experience versus book.  Management experience may work against you.  Don't know what your resume looks like, but you should be carefull on the management references when you are looking for enrty level.  Also we don't "deal with the public" we "work with the public" :)  Good luck               

djbdevil says ...

 Hello,

I just graduated with my bachelors degree in Organizational Security Management/ Criminal Justice... I am interested in becoming a probation officer... My problem is I have 0 experience in law enforcement, and even though I am applying for all "entry level" probation positions, I keep getting turned down because of lack of experience.  I do not have law enforcement experience but I do have years of experience dealing with the public, handling difficult situations with regard to social interaction (management experience), and I have years of experience in report writing and documentation... all of this is detailed within my resume.... what can I do to at least get an interview? 

The probation officers that I've met in CJ classes, including several professors who were once probation officers, all recommended aspiring probation officers to work at work release facilities as Residential Officers and then applying for p.o. positions when they open up. It only makes sense since the "residents" that you come in contact with daily will someday be your clients. It will give you a chance to get to know them while you are still new in this line of work.