How you can be more productive as a corrections professional

Gordon Graham here with Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Today’s Tip is for my colleagues in corrections, and it’s about productivity. 

It’s easy to understand employee productivity in manufacturing, agriculture, or other settings where output can be easily measured. But none of you get paid by the search, booking, or safety check.  

Productivity by corrections officers is measured by quality of work, not necessarily quantity. This is also the best strategy to change the negative perception sometimes associated with the job.  

What are some ways to enhance your productivity as a corrections officer? First, remember that corrections is a people profession. Period! And that means your productivity may be dependent on your interpersonal skills. Effective communication with inmates promotes cooperation and reduces tension and the likelihood of bad outcomes.  

What about your basic job skills like report writing? Do your reports contain the required information with sufficient detail? What is the feedback from your supervisors? Do you need to improve in this area? There is plenty of training available if you need it.  

Do you know, understand, and apply your agency’s policies? This is your best strategy for even-handed and professional delivery of your agency’s services. 

Are you able to use force in a tempered, legal and appropriate way? Do you understand and apply the concept of reasonableness, using no more force than is reasonably necessary to control a situation? Is your reporting and documentation of a critical incident thorough, detailed, accurate, and honest? 

So how can YOU be more productive as a corrections professional? Strive for excellence in interpersonal skills. Cultivate professionalism. Stay calm and impartial during critical incidents. And always demonstrate personal and professional integrity.  

And that’s Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Until next time, Gordon Graham signing off.