Former Detective Inspector Steve Jackson is passionate about supporting police officers through the promotion process. In this article, he offers practical tips for success that apply not only to policing, but to a range of related careers.
After serving 30 years with the City of London Police, retiring as a Detective Inspector in 2021, I moved into mentoring with a national policing programme, supporting graduate recruits and high-potential officers across England and Wales. I now work through a coaching practice to help officers prepare for promotion from sergeant through to superintendent, including fast track candidates. My aim is simple: to make promotion easier to understand, build confidence and help people become effective leaders.
Promotion can feel daunting in any profession. Whether you work in policing, law enforcement or security, stepping into leadership takes courage. It means leaving your comfort zone, accepting greater responsibility and balancing operational demands with the wellbeing of the people you lead.
In my view, leadership is not defined by rank; it is demonstrated through integrity, professionalism and service. An excellent foundation for understanding leadership is The College of Policing’s Competency and Values Framework (CVF), with its six competencies and three values. These are more than assessment criteria –they are the behaviours that build trust, inspire confidence and deliver outstanding public service.
Start with your ‘Why’
One of the first questions I ask candidates is, “Why do you want promotion?”
My own journey began seven years into service. I remember watching colleagues celebrate promotion while wondering why I wasn’t progressing. The honest answer was simple – I hadn’t committed to the process.
I booked my promotion examination, invested in training, set a clear goal and created an action plan. That decision changed everything.
A clear purpose will sustain you through the inevitable challenges. Promotion is rarely achieved through talent alone. It comes from preparation, persistence and continuous learning.
Invest in your development
Having coached more than 1,000 people through promotion and leadership development, I’ve found that successful candidates remain curious, seek feedback and actively look for opportunities to grow.
Practical experience is invaluable. Project work, acting-up opportunities and work shadowing build confidence while providing evidence of leadership. Equally important is learning to ignore negativity and focus on your own development. Confidence grows through preparation, experience and self-belief.
Alongside policing, I also support the British Forces Resettlement Services and AllPoliceJobs, helping Armed Forces personnel transition into policing and other emergency services. Although the roles differ, the principles of leadership, selection and professional development remain the same.
No one succeeds alone. A supportive manager, coach or mentor provides honest feedback, encouragement and accountability when motivation fades.
My ten tips for promotion success
- Start early – Don’t wait for a promotion process to be announced.
- Share your ambition – Tell your line manager and seek development opportunities.
- Create a development plan – Record progress through your appraisal or CPD.
- Know yourself – Complete a SWOT analysis to identify strengths and development areas.
- Understand your values – Consider a VIA Character Strengths assessment or similar tool.
- Seek honest feedback – Ask colleagues or mentors how they see your leadership.
- Keep an evidence portfolio – Record examples of leadership, teamwork and decision-making.
- Study the role – Understand the CVF, role profile and expectations of the position you want.
- Gain practical experience – Volunteer for acting-up, projects or work shadowing.
- Find a coach or mentor – Someone who will support, challenge and encourage you.
Invest in yourself, understand your purpose and never underestimate the positive difference you can make as a leader.
Promotion is about far more than passing an assessment. It is about developing the confidence, character and capability to lead others with integrity, empathy and professionalism.
Steve Jackson (aka CopCoach)
