Resources

Applicants can prepare for behavioural interviews by:

• brainstorming past experiences that demonstrate strengths applicable to the Protective Services Officer position - think about communications skills, conflict negotiation, teamwork and leadership
• drawing from past experiences that are relevant to the position where you achieved a positive result from a negative situation
• researching and having an understanding of current affairs within Victoria such as current issues facing Victoria Police and the community
• thinking about your motivation for applying for the role
• selecting the best examples from your list of past experiences
• structuring responses to possible questions based on the above elements
• performing mock interviews and role-playing

When formulating possible responses for a behavioural interview, applicants may like to consider using the STAR approach. This approach refers to:

• Situation – explaining the situation in which the experience occurred
• Task – the task you were required to complete
• Actions – the action or actions you took in the experience.
• Result – the outcome or outcomes of the experience

On the day

• dress appropriately for the interview – office attire is recommended
• arrive 15 minutes early - allow plenty of time for travel and to find the venue. We are based on the Ground Floor of 311 Spencer Street, Docklands
• bring any supporting documents that are required

There will be two employees of Victoria Police conducting your panel interview. During the interview:

• try and stay calm and relaxed, practice breathing exercises
• introduce yourself to the interview panel members
• allow the interviewer to finish talking before you answer the question. If you don't understand a question, ask the interviewer to repeat or rephrase it
• think about your answer first — there's no need to rush
• show interest and enthusiasm when responding to questions and answer concisely

The panel will give you an opportunity to ask any final questions.

Note: when asked scenario-based questions applicants are not expected to have any knowledge of police powers, policy or procedure – use your common sense, decision making and verbal communication skills.

Your interview will run for approximately 40-50 minutes.