The title of this article might seem contradictory or divergent from what we regularly encounter in the literature on law enforcement, leadership and promotion.
To clarify, I strongly believe in robust, servant-oriented and transformational leadership. I have strived to embody these traits and meet these standards throughout my law enforcement career. However, it’s important to acknowledge that ascending the proverbial promotional ladder can have its downsides. Being aware of potential consequences or impacts can help one prepare for when, not if, they occur.
Here are five downsides of becoming a leader:
1. Smaller circles
When you’re a patrol officer you have a litany of people to lean on for help, whether a mentor, senior officer, supervisor or a colleague within or outside of the agency. But what happens when the commanding officer or executive needs help? They often cannot relay their issue(s) to a rank below or a peer (unless they share rank), and likely will be forced to rely on their network of equally ranking peers outside of the agency.
As you move up in rank, whether intentionally or organically, your circle shrinks. Whether you like it or not, when you get into an elevator or walk into the department gym as a captain, everyone will get quiet. Your core values may never change but your collar brass has, which can be a barrier you must be aware of and work hard to build trust daily. Nonetheless, it can get lonely.
2. Judgment
Officers can and will make mistakes. If you are someone who makes the rules and enacts discipline when the rules are broken when you step on your own toes (intentionally or accidentally) be ready to face the rumor mill. Your dissenters will relish your mistake, your subordinates may see it as an opportunity to throw shade your way, and regardless of intent (or even due process), you will be on the defensive. Understand that you are fallible like everyone else. Your rank does not shield you from making mistakes.
3. Expectations
Officers, direct subordinates, politicians, friends and colleagues will all likely have expectations of you, some of which will be unreasonable. Be leery of what you promise and who you network with. Your ideas of grandeur may not be in line with your local government body, colleagues, or boss (if you report to one). Moreover, they may have expectations of you that are not in line with your goals/objectives.
Open and clear lines of communication from the beginning will help manage expectations. Two-way communication and conveying expectations are paramount.
4. Political influence
Law enforcement leaders are political footballs that get passed between both parties. Local officials will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in the appointment of your position. Do your best to keep these individuals informed and professionally at arm’s length.
Three things are needed for a positive relationship: Respect, trust and a shared vision for the agency. Unless someone in a governmental position is performing your duties, YOU know what’s best for the safety of your citizens and for your officers.
Understand that not every elected official has benevolent intentions and if you don’t walk in lockstep, you may torpedo your chance for advancement. However, the bottom line is that you should stand by your convictions, document and articulate your positions, and always maintain your ethics/integrity … even if that doesn’t align with everyone.
5. Theory of recency
You will always have advocates and diehard supporters but understand that regardless of how much you may have stuck your neck out for people, you cannot hang your hat on that for a career.
As a leader, people lean on you for a multitude of things – sometimes that includes help. Regardless of whether it is reciprocated, you have an obligation to help everyone, and failing to do so abdicates your responsibility as a leader. Furthermore, if you don’t – someone else will. This isn’t meant to be heartless or cold but factual. In law enforcement, the day you are off the books, discussions are being had as to how to fill your position. Whether you were Sir Robert Peel himself or Peter Parking Lot who only took calls for 20 years, you are designed to be replaced.
If you elect to promote and move up the ladder, you must understand that your scope of authority and responsibility goes from a one-lane road to a six-lane highway. Is it worth it? Absolutely. Becoming a leader is a privilege. Being able to make a difference during your working years to others outweighs the negatives, but as Rocky said, “It ain’t all sunshine and rainbows.”
