Expert: Loren Stevens - 12/4/2008

Question
QUESTION: i smoked marijuana once in high school and was wondering if that was a question on the test? to try and lie or not? and what are the consequences of both answers. i really want to be a police officer and dont want to screw it up

ANSWER: Hello Koehler,
C'mon lad.....are you asking me if you should lie in order to proceed.
If I may be bold, and up-front with you....The corner stones of a law enforcement officer, are: Honesty, and Character.
I don't see how you can entertain compromising them both, in your zeal to advance your interests.
My counsel, is to tell the truth, on EVERYTHING, and let the chips fall where they may. That, is the mature way to approach the matter, and with integrity.
You can't undo that which has already been done, nor can you turn the clock back.
But what you can do, is to stand tall, and start off on the right foot.
Don't you think others have done stupid things in their past?
Also, how will that land when you take a polygraph on truthfulness?
My advice would be for you to not only tell the truth, but craft your answer in a way that is most favorable to who you are today.
Example: Yes sir, I experienced a youthful indiscretion and did something not only stupid, and that I regret, but I am ashamed of myself for even trying something inappropriate.
Growing pains, peer pressure, etc, are not excuses I want to convey. The choice was mine to make, and on that particular situation, I chose very poorly. It was something in my distant past, that is not who I am, or what I am about"
How does that sound?
Often times, the way you frame a response tells the reviewer more about you, than the simple response.
Try not to sound canned, but be prepared to respond to this.
I don't think it is necessarily a deal breaker....if it was as you say.
Win or lose, be honorable in your character...even when it's not easy to do so.
Good Luck,
Regards,
loren

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: thank you very much. i realize that lying is not the route to take and will answer the questions truthfully. i only hope that my previous idiotic indescretion will not hinder my goal of becoming a police officer.
thank you,
koehler

Answer
I think you will make a wise decision.
Also, the use of a polygraph for new hires is not unusual for many agencies. They are looking for basic honesty.
So, again, ponder how you intend to frame your answer in either an application, or an interview.
A polygraph is YES/NO oriented.
Good Luck,
loren