Gordon Graham
Category: Law Enforcement
Gordon Graham here with Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Today I want to talk to my friends in law enforcement about improving recruitment and retention of women at your agency.
It’s no secret our agencies routinely struggle to get women to choose law enforcement as a career path. But addressing this challenge is not about filling quotas. It’s about enhancing the effectiveness, inclusivity, and community engagement of our agencies.
Recruiting and retaining more women in law enforcement isn’t just about numbers. It’s about building a workforce that accurately reflects the community it serves.
Right now, women make up a much smaller percentage of law enforcement than men. Maybe it’s because of the lack of visible role models, or maybe it’s due to misperceptions about law enforcement careers. Either way, this underrepresentation can impact everything from community relations to problem-solving within different societal groups.
So, what can we do about it? First, let’s talk about recruiting. Agencies need to actively reach out to communities and educational institutions to promote law enforcement careers among women. This might include community workshops, career days, and mentorship programs that feature successful female officers. Programs like these connect prospective female recruits with experienced women in your agency who can provide guidance, support, and a clear understanding of the job and what it entails.
Retention is equally important. It begins with a welcoming and supportive work environment where everyone feels valued and has equal opportunities for advancement. Policies that assist women in balancing work and family life, such as maternity leave and childcare, can also play a big role. So can training programs focused on leadership development for recruitment
Your agency’s culture also plays a pivotal role. It’s important to cultivate an environment where everyone — regardless of gender — feels respected and valued. This includes appropriate training, true inclusion, and enforcing policies that protect against harassment and discrimination.
Remember that recruiting and retaining more women in law enforcement isn’t just about numbers. It’s about building a workforce that accurately reflects the community it serves.
And that’s Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Until next time, Gordon Graham signing off.
