Becoming a 911 Dispatcher: Panel Interview and Polygraph Exam

[@teasiawilliams8221]

I really owe you. I watched every single video of your preparing me for the steps again and I am proud to say I just got an offer to join my local sheriffs department as a 911 dispatcher!! Thank you so much

[@taylorcoleman2175]

Congratulations 🎉

[@wnsmlssm]

Thank you for the informative videos, Laura. Had my panel interview this morning, and while it was COMPLETELY different than what was explained here and even on other videos, yours definitely gave me a calming outlook and a little extra confidence that I was ready for the interview. For those who wonder what my interview entailed, here ya go... Upon entering the room, I was greeted by three interviewers. The lead interviewer explained that they would be giving me a series of six questions and scenarios, each for which they asked me to respond to appropriately. The scenarios generally dealt with multiple calls coming in at once and how I would prioritize them; ie. which one did I think was most important to dispatch first. I was also asked to listen to a very frantic 911 call, write down as much information as I could during the call, and then they quized me on the fine details at the end; ie. what was the callers name? What caliber gun was used(caller stated it was a 9mm)? What was the address?, etc., etc.. I'm sure another reason for playing this call was to gauge my reaction to the unfolding situation. They also circled back to earlier scenarios from the interview and ask me to recall certain details such as "how long has the young boy been reported missing for from the 2nd scenario?" and so forth. The only two questions they asked me were in regards to how I handle stress (before, during and after a situation), and to describe a stressful situation in a previous job and how I overcame it. I can't say that every panel interview is like the one I had, but I would highly recommend anyone getting ready for their interview, to prepare for this possibility. It was very similar to certain sections of the Criticall exam, but live and in person. My last bit of advice would be to get a good night's sleep the night before so you can walk in there confident and with a clear head. Good luck to everyone!

[@krrystalnr1456]

David Thank you so much for this! I have my interview tomorrow and this helped a lot

[@SirAuron777]

Krrystalnr please let me know how your interview goes! I have a written test coming up and I’ve passed it before earlier this year but I failed the interview and applied again. Just want to know what other people’s interviews are like, thank you

[@krrystalnr1456]

Spaz Tek My interview went nothing like as described above. There was three people and they each took turns asking questions such as “Describe a situation that was difficult in your past employment and how you overcame it” and “Why do you want to work here?” I want to say they each asked a series of 4 questions each. There was no scenario questions for me. I don’t feel I did that well because I wasn’t prepared. But I’m still hopeful! I hope this helps

[@shannonsexton7742]

Krrystalnr how did your interview go? Did you get hired?

[@krrystalnr1456]

Shannon Sexton My interview went ok I did not end up getting selected.

[@normankillian-u7k]

The polygraph is the most stressful part of this hiring process. I had a female examiner and she told me the machine was very sensitive and could detect any deception. She also told me she was not there to help me pass the test, but to determine if I was telling the truth. The first question she asked me was "do you intend to answer all questions truthfully?" Throughout the test she would ask, "Are you telling the truth?" The last question was, "Have you answered truthfully to all questions on this test?" As Laura said you have to sit perfectly still. The blood pressure cuff feels so tight on your arm. I was on the machine for about forty five minutes. I had to sign and date the chart. I was not told if I had passed or failed the examination. I was not offered the position and I never learned if I passed the polygraph. I know this is hard to do, but try to stay calm if you go on the polygraph. You will undoubtably feel anxiety, stress and yes, fear. Thank you, Laura, for this information. And good luck to all those who will have to face it

[@tiselectric]

Took my Criti Call test and passed, got an interview tomorrow. God is good! I am incredibly blessed and have great confidence in myself. Thank you for your video. ❤

[@markpilkerton5535]

You have a warm, fun, positive vibe. Wish you continued success in your life

[@LauraBryant]

Awwww thank you so much!! I appreciate your kind words!!

[@xpp933]

I know this was posted 3 years ago but I still want to thank you! I really want to become a 911 dispatcher and this helped so much.

[@jackksterr]

I just want to say THANK YOU for the informative videos of the whole dispatch process!! It’s been a long, tedious 3 months & I got the job today!! From the panel interview, to the polygraph, to just the beginning of taking the critical test... God taught me PATIENCE throughout the whole process & I am SO thankful & excited for this new journey!! Thank you for helping me prepare for the process I had to go through bc it definitely helped me be more cautious of what to expect!!! ❤️

[@akamppi28]

I just recieved An email that I was selected to go take the test for a 911 dispatch 😁

[@LauraBryant]

AWESOME!!!! check out my Criticall video!

[@Threadinhand]

Girl, I take mine in two days and I'm SO nervous!!!

[@letstalkwithkimcook1523]

Me too

[@BlackMadonna]

How’s things go with the test ladies

[@borahae5129]

my panel interview just had the basic questions: tell me about yourself, tell me a situation where you had to act without a supervisor, what skills do you possess that can be beneficial to this job, etc.

[@lesliec_915]

How long was your interview?

[@juliboolii]

Dear Laura, I can’t thank you enough for making these wonderful videos.❤️ You have given me the confidence to apply to be a 911 dispatcher despite my fears of not being good enough. Watching you has encouraged me to have some faith in myself and now I’m all set up for my interview!! Thank you so much Laura. God bless you! ❤️❤️❤️

[@LauraBryant]

Heyyyy!!! You just made my heart smile!!! Thank you for watching and believing in yourself enough to even take the first step!! Good luck on the journey!!!

[@katiejo6318]

I took the criticall two weeks ago and I guess I passed because they called me for an interview! You make me feel so much more confident about it. I'll keep you updated!

[@LauraBryant]

AWESOME!!!! Congrats to you!! Keep us posted!!

[@marcusmassey965]

How did the interview go?

[@katiejo2494]

hi there twin lol love your name

[@KiraaBiraa]

I’ve noticed everyone had to take a criticall test first then get a interview I was just told I have a interview no recall test here in Jersey

[@estelag5469]

I took my panel interview test today, it was so scary and intimidating lol I was asked probably a total of 8-10 questions, they were mainly about prioritizing events, ex. A mattress in the middle of a highway, a bank robbery, and a cop requesting info. I was also asked about how I manage stress and examples from previous work experiences. Also, as soon as I sat down they told me 6 random phrases (ex. Cold coffee, round table, blue shirt), and I was asked to repeat the 6 phrases back at the end of the interview lol I passed! I now have to take the criti call exam on Monday 😬

[@lesliec_915]

I was wondering how long was your interview?

[@kB5TVP]

Girl, thanks for these videos! I hope your still on your job and LOVE IT! born and raised in dallas... i know the high call volume daily. Godbless you, love from East texas

[@LauraBryant]

Thanks for watching! I am not still there but will help as I can!

[@marytankersley284]

DON'T MOVE! Thank you for the continued videos. Just your testimony is inspiring. I have officially passed the polygraph! I did the focus on the wall thing. Thank you.

[@LauraBryant]

Yessss it works every time!!! And thank you for watching! I am so glad I can help someone along the way!

[@shybirdfl]

What's focus on the wall?

[@marytankersley284]

@@shybirdfl lol this was almost 4 years ago! Time has certainly matured me...."focus on the wall"....Ms Lauren had discussed in one video about a focal point in the polygraph. And the it exactly what I did. My poly was hours long but I did not let my emotions bother and I kept honorable and focused on that wall as a center point for my distraction zone...all with a broken tail bone. If you're considering becoming a first responder, I say these videos can help. I love my job. I am R263 :)

[@heavenlyaguilar6607]

Took my criticall exam today and killllled it, so thank you so much !

[@shael8205]

Did you have to do a background investigation interview ?

[@mylesholland1299]

I’m nervous already

[@bravo6968]

Hey, since you answered so many of my questions, I thought I’d owe you my results. So I passed the typing test at like 60wpm, then took the criticall (really didn’t think I passed) but I did!!!! Thank you so much for your info and help!!

[@LauraBryant]

Awesome!!! You are so welcome!! Good luck with the process!!!

[@LauraBryant]

Awesome!!!! Best of luck

[@lolah2153]

My test is in 2 weeks, your videos are giving me confidence. Thank you!!!

[@eliseorios7278]

I passed my criticall test , and I have in interview on ZOOM this week !!! So nervous but, I think I’ll rock it!! I’m very good at handling stress , bilingual and I’m 20 years old and live by myself ! I hope I get the job

[@MarkoutMoviePodcast]

Did you get the job?

[@LiyahSmith3]

Can you assist me on some questions , I’ve taken this test twice and they’ve stated I’m unsuccessful. I’ll be having my ZOOM interview on the 24th but I need to pass this test by Friday ( please feel free to contact me ) thank you

[@APBLANS]

I watched your videos before I took the CritiCall test and passed because of your helpful tips. I have my interview next week! Do you have any suggestions?

[@LauraBryant]

Awesome sauce!!! I am so excited to hear!!! Just be calm and be yourself!! This video u just watched has some tips as well!! Good luck with everything else!!! Keep us posted!!

[@APBLANS]

Laura Bryant passed the interview portion. Just got through my orientation. Filling out my massive packet. again. I wanted to thank you for giving us these videos. I was super stressed not knowing what the polygraph entailed. Or the background portion. My credit is EHHHHHH. It’s not perfect. But it’s not terrible. So I was super anxious. I recently read you said credit isn’t what the entire job is based on. So you’ve helped me a lot throughout this process

[@DrBJP]

alexis pacumio what kind of questions did they ask during the interview process?

[@edythhernandez109]

?

[@asmryadis3093]

alexis pacumio Congratulations on passing the interview portion. What questions dod they ask you?

[@itsaboymomthing7220]

I am so glad I youtubed criticall test and came across your profile. I am not far from the grove at all and am testing for 2 different cities in the metroplex in the next week. These videos are GREAT! I took the criticall test once years ago and all these videos were a great refresher :)

[@LauraBryant]

Awesome!!! Someone else from the grove! Good luck on everything!!

[@goddessreads6909]

I applied the next day they called and why do most agency you have to wear a police officer uniform when you just answer calls it seems more laid back in the south I'm so happy that u did this in haven't worked in 16 years fighting for my life and raising kids this blog has helped tremendously blessings to you this called paying forward

[@megf9019]

I watched your Criticall video before taking my exam a few weeks ago! I passed & now have my panel interview in just a couple days! I'm so excited and have been researching mock questions and watching videos just like yours! Fingers crossed! I really hope I do well!!

[@brandycastorena8032]

How did your panel interview go?

[@CravingFireworks]

Hi Laura, just wanted to say thanks for the great advice. I watched your videos from start to finish, unfortunately my story had a bad ending. Breezed through the testing and did what I thought was a great, prepared panel interview and was not selected. Was very heartbroken considering it was what I considered an ideal career for me (I have a MA in conflict de-escalation).

[@adjustingwithjess6501]

Girrrrll thank you for these videos!!! And for being so open and transparent! I have ADHD as well, you seem so relatable! ❤️

[@LauraBryant]

You are so welcome!!! Yes definitely!! We need to help each other out!!! There are so many opportunities available and people to need to know that they can have them too!!!!! Thanks for watching!

[@sharoneverett142]

Thank you so much for the encouraging tips, which are so helpful. I’m scheduled to take my test on this coming Tuesday. I’ve been practicing for sure. Happy New Year

[@LauraBryant]

You are welcome!! I hope all went well with your test! Thanks for watching!

[@nathalyarosado1918]

im applying for a dispatch position in the dallas area, its great to hear from a fellow dfw person! thanks for these vids girl!!

[@LauraBryant]

YOu are so welcome!! I hope the application process is going well!

[@rebeccamcguire3121]

Thank you for your videos. I am preparing for I guess an Interview and testing on January 22nd the whole process takes 5 hours. 3 hours will be on testing. Trying not to be nervous of what to expect. You made me feel a litter better. Thanks again.

[@LauraBryant]

Well thanks for watching! I am so glad I could help!!!

[@duane3694]

I have an interview this Tuesday. So glad I found you on youtube. Thank you for what are you doing.

[@tnew2725]

I love your videos! You are extremely helpful. My Criticall test went great! I passed it! Today was my panel interview and I have to say the experience was muchhhhh different than expected! Not really sure how I did...not too confident honestly. I think I was just nervous and talked too much lol

[@tnew2725]

Update! I was offered a position and I have my polygraph next week. After that I can start!😁

[@walkerteal1905]

@@tnew2725 what did they ask you I’m nervous as hell

[@monique.110]

@@tnew2725 congrats!!!! update please!

[@btapann]

Thank you for this very informative video of what takes place for 911 interview. By the way, you have the most soothing and comforting voice. I was starting to fall asleep 😴 You would be an excellent ASMR artist because of your voice!

[@LauraBryant]

Hey there!! I am so glad you like the videos! Thank you so much! I have heard that about my voice before... that I should be a Phone sex operator lol... I am toooo goofy for that... but ASMR is an option!

[@shybirdfl]

Lmao 🤣 😂 😆

[@alfredodiaz7000]

Glad I found your videos. I got my test next week. Hope it goes good.

[@LauraBryant]

Awesome!!! Best of luck to you!!!

[@me_839]

Thank you for this video. I have an interview on Monday for a 9-1-1 dispatcher Agency in tx. I’m nervous and trying my best to prepare. Although they didn’t say we needed a polygraph bu a psychological exam.

[@scruggsmonica04]

I live in the pleasant grove/mesquite area! Wow lol. I just received an email to take the Criticall test

[@LauraBryant]

Monica Scruggs ok!! I actually grew up in Pleasant Grove and lived in mesquite before I moved!!! Congrats!!

[@thefieryhighpriestess306]

Laura Bryant same I stay in pleasant grove, I’m taking the test this week but it’s from home I’ve taken it before just trying to be extra prepared , John west is that the area lol

[@melissalozano5283]

Thank you for your information!!!!!!! Iam looking into this career and you give a realistic insight

[@Nickki0315]

I filled out an application and the same day I was sent an application to fill out. It had on their tell me about yourself and list recent jobs. What skills you have that may be beneficial for the position you are applying for. Now I have an interview.

[@lauraschoelles7739]

Hey from another Laura! Am looking at this for a potential hire. So great to meet you and have your help and expertise! Thank you so much!

[@cocacolagrl100]

I had my first ever panel interview today for an agency in New Jersey. There were three people in the panel. I’ve watched your video servers times in the last month. It was nerve wracking but I feel the man asking the questions liked me a lot . And they will be taking 12 out of 40 candidates and I should know by mid December.i felt my answers could have maybe been alittle better said but by the end of the interview I felt very comfortable and I feel like the connection was there. I hope they liked me enough to pick me. Thanks

[@LauraBryant]

Beat of luck to you!!! Hoping for the best!!

[@cocacolagrl100]

@@LauraBryant I was originally rejected for the job in December and i just got an email from the senior PST after two months inquiring about if i was still interested in the position and if i still want to be considered for their new round of training in late april. ABSOLUTELY!!!!!! lets see what happens.

[@LauraBryant]

Yessssss!!!! That is AMAZING!!! Good luck to you in this new journey!!

[@brianajade1311]

Christine V hi!! I’m from NJ as well. I’m taking my critical on Wednesday. How is everything going? Also, how long did you wait to get a panel interview after taking your initial test. Thank you!!!

[@asmryadis3093]

I want to thank you so much for making these videos!!! You helped me gain so much insight and prepare for this incredible opportunity! Today I received my first offer!!! I look forward to moving forward in the process! 💛

[@SirAuron777]

ASMR Yadis what was your interview like? Did they make you read a map and show them the best route for the emergency vehicles to get to a certain location? That’s what my interview had I had no ideas how to read a huge map smh lol

[@shybirdfl]

Following

[@nashayryce2301]

I have an interview coming up and I am terrified. I always interview horribly. I have terrible anxiety. Any advice on how to get the jitters out of my system ahead of time?? Thanks in advance

[@LauraBryant]

Hey there!! You just have to try to calm down!! Its cool! I believe most employers know that people have a bit of anxiety so you will be fine. Keep us posted!!

[@eliseorios7278]

How did it go ?

[@stefchandler76]

Hi! I know this is late but I just started the process. I’ve got several questions to ask you about where I am in the process. I’ve passed all my tests and had a sit down with my investigator. Tomorrow is my polygraph and fingerprinting Friday my practical and next Tuesday my Psych Eval. He said it’s appx 9hrs!! Anyway can we email my other questions? Your videos are really so helpful!! Stef

[@caitlincarson2447]

I have an interview on the 5th!! I watched your video for the PST as well 😬! And passed these are so helpful ❤️ thank you!!

[@natalie3403]

I passed my Criticall test today, but now I'm up for an interview in 3 days...I'm nervous. Haven't done the polygraph test yet so...how to call yourself down??

[@K01T4tt00]

This made me feel so much better. Thank you. ❤

[@jessicawynder7658]

I passed my test !!!!😊😊 I’m waiting to receive my links for my interviews

[@magalyalvarez7932]

You’re video has helped me tremendously through the hiring process! ❤️ I took three criticall exams for three different agencies and passed all three! I have gotten 2 interviews and so far I heard back from one stating that I’m moving forward, and now have to do the background investigation (which I’m guessing is the polygraph). I’m going in tomorrow and I’m super nervous but extremely thankful for your videos. You’ve helped me out a lot 💛✨

[@magalyalvarez7932]

UPDATE: I PASSED THE INTERVIEWS AND I’M TAKING THE POLYGRAPH ON WEDNESDAY 💛💛💛

[@BriawniNichole]

@@magalyalvarez7932 whqat kind of stuff do they ask you for the polygraph? im super nervous haha

[@mekamenifee285]

OMFGOSH....I TOTALLY FORGOT ABOUT NCIC 😮...my husband just said "yo ass better run they name and if they ass got a warrant send they ass on where they need to go" (he so damn silly)😂😂😂😂

[@sheenamarie67]

Thanks for all the info! You're amazing and soo helpful! So during the Poly if I"m a super smiley and gigley person, should I tone that down at all?

[@myrag.9976]

Thank you so much for these videos! I am watching these videos because I have to take a criticall test next week and I'm looking for anything that will help me. I'm so nervous

[@martresatolbert7643]

Hi Laura I love your videos... they really helped me out during this process. I received my offer letter on Monday and took the drug examination on the same day... they mentioned a physical as well and so have you but I wasn't scheduled for it... I'm supposed to start working at the end of the month. Does the physical happen after you start?

[@marybistro]

Good job, loved your first video on 911 dispatch test. I have applied in my area and am waiting, tick tock tick tock.....lol

[@LauraBryant]

Heyyyy!!! Awesome!! I am sure you will get responses! They are always looking for dispatchers! best of luck and keep us posted!!

[@kingames8889]

I’m in Dallas too, applied for Richardson!

[@k1mmys0me]

This is amazing thank you for all you do!

[@arisingking4678]

Your personality is irresistible. I will be doing the 911 dispatcher test next Thursday. Your video was informative.

[@LauraBryant]

Awwwe thanks so much!!! Best wishes to u!! Keep us posted!!!

[@arisingking4678]

@@LauraBryant I decided to take another position so didn't bother take the test. [e-mail] is my email. It would be nice talking to you about a few stuff.

[@nini122ss]

What do I need to expect at the background investigation interview? In my email it said it’s 1-2 hours. That’s where I bring my forms of ids etc.

[@racheljones1878]

Thank you for this video! I am going in a couple days to do the interview and I am very nervous. Do you know if the polygraph and the interview are the same day? Do you also know how long the panel interview typically takes? Thank you again and know your videos have helped so many!

[@asmryadis3093]

Rachel Jones How was your interview? What questions did they ask?

[@shybirdfl]

Me too in 2022

[@Shannonbarnesdr1]

hood is very accurate, i put it to people like this: i live in the hood, but, i, a,m not hood / ghetto, and im trying to get myself out of said hood/ghetto and get myself in a better environment that reflects who i am as a person as well as putting myself in better environments that open the doors to more options and better calibers of people to surround myself with. im in the hood because its all i can afford at the moment, but it is not who i am, and i know i can be way better than that because i want more for myself than those low standards.

[@shanawalker1026]

What is the correct thing to do if you ever get a call from a family member or loved one?

[@LauraBryant]

You should continue with the call but notify your supervisor immediately. I would send an instant message as soon as I realized who it was!

[@jmatos7872]

Girl your voice alone is calming!! xoxo

[@MamaTyandJah]

Thank you!.. Girl I tried the test I was so lost but your video helped... I still was lost.🤦🏾‍♀️❤

[@rebeccaa5032]

You make very useful videos! Thank you so much for that!

[@LauraBryant]

Awwww thank you!!! I just try to give yall what you are asking for!! Let me know if there is anything that you are wanting to see!

[@paulinadiaz2782]

I recently applied but I have not the best work history due to personal issues. Does that affect whether I get picked or not ??

[@LauraBryant]

I think it is more of the experience. But work history and reasons for lapse in work history are considered as well I’m sure

[@cocomelodramatic4252]

What if you tried weed once but it was a year ago and you’ve never done it since, is that a disqualification

[@LauraBryant]

No it is not!

[@cocomelodramatic4252]

Okay, thank you! All the other dispatcher videos discourage me but your videos make me feel better and really want to get a dispatcher job

[@katiesnook-garza6349]

Im currently applying to be a 911 dispatcher trainee... I have done some drugs 4 years ago lightly and have not done them since. However in my state pot is legal i do not smoke pot regularly but i did partake a few times this year... Would that disqualify me

[@LauraBryant]

If you disclose that it will temporarily disqualify u. Last time I tested that would disqualify you.

[@jasminediamond6514]

So you saying if I be honest it won't keep me from becoming a 911 dispatcher

[@lesliemorse7522]

Eeeek - I have my panel interview next week! Also dfw area!

[@shaegwyn3030]

Had the panel interview about a month ago. Got a letter in the mail and was not selected for the position. I was hurt by the decision but maybe it was for the best.

[@VMJM85]

Great video I do have a question though. I have me panel interview coming up in a couple weeks. I’m going to have to fill out the background packet, but my question is, after the pack it says a back round detective will contact me for a back round interview. What is a back round interview? Is t the polygraph test or is it different? Thank you

[@LauraBryant]

Hey! The background investigation is a packet of paperwork that will go over all jobs, address, schools and background of some family members. After that you complete the polygraph! I hope this is helpfukb

[@katherinelayden5830]

I've only ever encountered one panel interview and it was so terrifying I walked out after the second question. I'm not worried about the CritiCall testing but this aspect of the hiring process is really intimidating. Thanks for the clarification.

[@LauraBryant]

Oh wow. Sorry that happened to you! Hopefully you’re able to make it happen if this is something you want!

[@katherinelayden5830]

Thanks. That was years ago and I walked into it with little experience interviewing and had no idea there would be more than one person in the room. Preparation seems to help.

[@SirAuron777]

Katherine Layden hey I had an interview earlier this year with 3 people, it was intimidating as hell, but what really caught me off guard was that they made me read a map and tell them the best route to get from point a to point b in front of all 3 of them. It was a nightmare, and the map was like 4 feet in length, huge. Just wondering if you weren’t through something similar

[@lesliec_915]

@@SirAuron777 hey, I was wondering how long was the interview

[@smileykylieblue1234]

I’m trying to apply for a 911 dispatch job here in Arlington area.. And of course they say you’re disqualified if you’ve used marijuana in the past 3 years.. and I know there’s a drug test and polygraph.. I don’t use it regularly at all but I have smoked before in that time frame.. What should I do? Should I just not even bother applying? I wanna get the experience but I know it’s a lengthy process

[@X-COLLECTIONS]

You should still apply ! The worst that could happen is you get a no. Just be completely honest with it and say something like "I have experienced using marijuana, I wish I could say otherwise because it was a foolish decision" or something along those lines just make it sound more professional. It's a lot better to be upfront than lie and not pass a polygraph test!

[@LauraBryant]

As far as I know... answering yes to having used marijuana in the past 3 years will disqualify you. I agree with being honest but when you put that on your application you will get DQ'd.

[@lolawarren8296]

Thank you much for explaining about dispatcher interviews

[@devannorton4825]

Thanks for the videos ❤ im going on the 28th for the interview and tests

[@brittanyrose5214]

Hi! came across your wonderful videos as I am going thru the hiring process for E-911 Dispatcher and was wondering...do they check your social media within this process? I heard some one say they base decisions off social media as well.

[@LauraBryant]

I’m sure they look you up! Be careful what u post!

[@ART95129]

Generally any law enforcement related employers look up social media. Clean it up! 😁

[@katiejewel]

I’m 29 now.. I use to smoke weed a lot when i was a teen and I’ve only done it maybe 5 times into my 20s... when I was 18 I tried E and when I was 19 I did molly and mushrooms.. Will this effect my outcome? This was in the past.

[@barnowlcandleco6191]

my panel interview is tomorrow and im so dang nervous. I get nervous bc i never know what they are going to ask. I dont like when they ask questions and im like uhhhhh... like i dont know what to say. can you give me some questions they will ask you?

[@arlandab9946]

@laura byrant I was wondering how do you get hired to even the certifications? I have read that they want you to get certified through an agency. I am CPR/AED certified and a bachelor's degree but i don't have the year experience in high call volume settings.

[@LauraBryant]

Hey! You can still be hired! I had the same credentials and still got hired. I didn’t have call center experience but I had customer service experience. They will also re cert your CPR certification

[@softpearls21]

how about if you don't remember the address from 20 years ago? what did you put?

[@LauraBryant]

I just tried as best I could. If there were things I didn’t remember, I just added that there was an unknown address.

[@angieleigh2055]

I have an interview in 10 days for the Police Dispatcher position for my city and I'm super excited but super nervous. I know the job is demanding and could be highly stressful I hope I pass the panel interview! 🤞🏼🤞🏼🤞🏼

[@LauraBryant]

Best of luck to you!! Thanks for watching!

[@angieleigh2055]

@@LauraBryant I just have one question I've been wondering forever why are dispatchers expected to work minimum 10 hours a day and not 8. Sometimes even 14-16 hours a day?? Is there a reason behind that? Thanks

[@eliseorios7278]

@@angieleigh2055 Thats they Pay really good ! And overtime is mandatory

[@SirAuron777]

I applied for a trainee position earlier this year and I took a written test. I passed the test and was given an oral exam, which is an interview pretty much. They had a police officer, the chief of the fire department and another important person(I can’t remember what type of employee she was) it was nerve racking as hell, and they had audio recordings of 911 calls, and asked me questions about what the person was wearing and what street, just memory type stuff. Then they wanted me to point on a giant map on the wall, the best path for the emergency vehicles to reach a certain destination. There were lines everywhere on this map and I had no idea what to do, I bombed badly smh lol anyone have any tips on the map portion? Or anywhere online where I can study on that?

[@lesliec_915]

Hello, I was wondering how long was your interview?

[@marykimbakimba4128]

am also going for typing text. how many stages remaining for someone to actually get the job

[@beccalabonte7676]

Hi will they not hire you if you admit to having a past drug addiction or trying stuff as a young and dumb teen awhile ago but not anymore?

[@fusrodah4663]

So if I have smoked weed before but not in at least 2 years would that disqualify me?

[@LauraBryant]

Depends on the agency. Some require 3 years.

[@SnapeWinchester]

Do you get a choice in the hours you work when you first start out?

[@LauraBryant]

Great question. We did a shift bid. You would submit which off days you wanted and which shift you wanted to work... however, off days and shifts were given in order of seniority. I was off Thursday and Friday... which was ok!

[@barbaraburkey492]

@@LauraBryant las vegas stated = all new staff would be working graveyard and Absolutely NO requests for time off for 1st year of employment (so No birthdays, 1st day of school for kids, Holidays, etc)

[@Patrice87]

@@LauraBryant HI what were your hours? Did they automatically place you on night shifts? I'm in Texas too, in Houston

[@faithspain5794]

Hi Laura, I will be taking my written test, next month, for a Police Department in Southern Cali. When it comes time for backgrounds, being that I am older now; will they allow candidates( me) to bring a list of every job, reference name....from the last 20 years in?

[@LauraBryant]

Hey there! they want you to put as much as you remember. IF you can not remember then you can not remember! lol! I hope this is helpful!

[@faithspain5794]

@@LauraBryant Yes, your answer was very helpful. Thank you!

[@vernishacoppedge8078]

Hi! Your videos are super helpful! I’m hoping you see this before my test and interview tomorrow! I’m making myself nervous . So my question is, I was told that marijuana would not disqualify me from the dispatcher job as long as I disclose it and I’m honest about it . Is that true ? Second , the panel interview is immediately after my criticall test. I’ve been on hundreds of interviews but I keep picturing 3 officers interrogating me 😭 how intense is it ?

[@LauraBryant]

Hey! I am so happy that I could help! No that is not true. It depends on the legnth of time the agency requires you havent used it. Most are about 3-5 years. You do need to disclose but if it has been recent then you may get disqualified. I would check with the agency!

[@kellygallagher7911]

Here's a question so if you have tried cocaine in the past but you don't do it anymore does that mean that you would not get that job

[@LauraBryant]

No it doesn’t

[@alyssagraham1144]

What did you do about not knowing the supervisors name and stuff? Thats gonna be me for sure like iv had a lot of jobs and im only 22

[@bonehead750be_a_glowstick2]

Hello, Laura!!! I came from Illinois were marijuana was legal. I know it's not legal in Texas though. I have smoked in Illinois, but since I moved to Texas, I have not smoked at all! It's been about 6 or 7 months since I've smoked. Would that disqualify me? I'm applying to be a 911 Dispatcher in the Mansfield area. It's my dream job!!!

[@LauraBryant]

Depending on their requirements, that would likely disqualify you because they require a certain amount of years. You may call anonymously and ask! Lol!!

[@bravo6968]

What would you recommend wearing to an interview? I am a guy. Would a polo and khakis cut it or should I do nice dress shirt and tie, and what colors do you recommend?

[@LauraBryant]

Hey!! Thanks for watching!! I’d recommend dressing professionally for any interview! Slacks and button down with tie will never fail you!

[@berrymened70]

What about for the examination?

[@tpsgabe]

omg you're my fav 911 dispatcher in your county!

[@LauraBryant]

Hahaha!! Thanks!!

[@Dee-it5yu]

How long after your poly graph test were you called for the next step?

[@Blackcopia]

Just had a quick question do you or did you have to capitalize or put punctuation during the 40 words a minute typing test? that's the one thing that most likely to slow me down.

[@J.Hill49]

I’m so nervous! They want me for an interview tomorrow morning 😆😁

[@raidyson]

Your personality is everything 😂😂😂

[@LauraBryant]

Awwww thank you!!! Thank you for watching!!

[@gigigonzalez7372]

I have a question I hope you can answer, I applied for the position and got an email to schedule my exam for the emergency communications test, is that the same as the criticall test? It did not say that but testing says 1-3hrs

[@gnd333]

Is it best to be honest with past drug use?? I did some things in college i’m not proud of and would never do again, but obviously they’ll be able to see if I try to lie...

[@madisonattaway8091]

Do you know if they will provide this polygraph test on you while pregnant?

[@tijyonce]

i live in Chicago and i’m looking forward to becoming a 911 Dispatcher. what exactly do i have to look up to apply?

[@SoraTroianeko]

I just applied to be a dispatcher 2 weeks ago and I have my Criti-Call Test on Wednesday this week, I am super excited for it my only issue is typing numbers on my keyboard. Which did you use for numbers, the number pad or the top row?

[@LauraBryant]

Well good luck with everything on Wednesday!!! It depends on what I’m typing! If I’m typing a phone number I generally use the keypad and if I am typing an address or something with just a few numbers, I use the top row! That’s just how I’ve always typed!

[@theresahudson316]

How do I possibly get all of my work history I don’t remember

[@LauraBryant]

Think hard!! lol... what you do know you can't add but try as best you can because they will look it up

[@2008MrsKim]

Why do they even have you take the polygraph even if it's admissible in court? Do they just wanna know all ya business?

[@LauraBryant]

Just want to be sure you have integrity. If you have to go to court because of a call they need to be sure you’re credible

[@annabelwong]

going through this process now!!!! ill update if i remember if get an offer

[@LauraBryant]

Awesome! How did everything go?

[@annabelwong]

@@LauraBryant the interview was so weird none of the questions i was asked were if i had any runnings w the law or needed the law to come in to help me. also questions about the shift and hours and pay.