Police Communication

communication in order to respond efficiently and effectively. Studies from Humes Jr. (2011) indicate that, “Good communication skills can diffuse violent altercations before they explode, get people to do what you want them to, and help to create a positive relationship” (p. 4). Clear channels of communication and team efforts are the essence of police work because it is a skill needed for a multitude of purposes. The way a police leader communicates with subordinates, supervisors, citizens, and alleged suspects will prevent conflicts, complaints, and allegations.

Schafer (2010) highlighted several traits and habits of an effective and ineffective leader based on the results he obtained from participants at the FBI National Academy. Although

The sergeant is the next in command closest to the officer. The sergeant provides advice, suggestions, guidance, and leadership to an officer. It is crucial for all police supervisors to continuously attend departmental in-service and workshops to improve and update their leadership skills. A final disposition that police leaders must have is charisma. Charismatic leaders are “individuals who are both verbally eloquent, and is also capable of communicating to followers on a deep emotional level. They are able to articulate a compelling or captivating vision, and are able to arouse strong emotions in followers” (p. 1). Similarly, Haberfeld (2013) indicate that “Charismatic leaders are self-confident and are able to manage their image, articulate visions, communicate high expectations, and instill confidence in followers” (p. 51). Police supervisors need to incorporate charisma into their style of leadership in order to provide clear visions of what they want to accomplish, and how that goal should be done. The charismatic qualities of police leaders determine whether they are able to gain their subordinates’ trust and inspire commitment to their