INSIGHTS FROM OUR CEO

The short answer is that they will be your employee. Hiring someone from another department has many benefits, including experience in the field. These individuals are certified, familiar with a public safety professional’s job functionalities, and most likely up-to-date on the required training, which saves departments money. 

While there are several benefits, there are also risks that need consideration. Most public safety standards do not require that a lateral transfer have a pre-employment psychological evaluation. We understand that cost is a factor; however, employers must have all the necessary information and data to make an informed hiring decision. 

When considering whether to screen a lateral applicant, keep a few things in mind. Even though they are working in a safety-sensitive role and have the credentials for the position, they may not have had a previous psychological evaluation, or it’s been over a year or more since their last medical or psychological evaluation. Significant professional or personal life events impact suitability determinations. Also, consider that your hiring process may be more stringent than that of other departments. They may allow personal habits and/or indiscretions in a candidate’s background that you would never consider.

Ensuring your candidate is fit for your department is critical. Our evaluations are designed to assess suitability for the job to which a candidate is applying. We consider the position’s core job functions and use that and other historical and clinical data to determine psychological and medical suitability. Another major benefit to getting lateral candidates screened is that it gives you added security and a form of insurance. We stand by our medical and psychological evaluations and, therefore, share liability with you.

You need to know if your applicants are suitable for your department’s culture, city, and county. Don’t put your department at risk. Get your applicants screened regardless of whether they are new hires or lateral. We’re here to help, so call us when you need us. 336.761.0764 extensions 1010 or 1017

 

Elizabeth Morris, M.A.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

---

Phone: 336-761-0764 ext. 1011

Email: elizabeth@fmrt.org 

---

FMRT Online Tutorials

We’ve wanted to provide you with these for a while now, so I’m excited to share these brief tutorials to help you and your staff navigate FMRT Online. This is an evolving platform; however, we’re happy to share these current capabilities, which include …drum roll, please…BRAINS access codes! This allows you, as the employer, to notify the applicant to complete the assessment within a preferred time frame. 

Navigating FMRT Online – Agency User

Access Settings (Managing Users) for Agency Admins in FMRT Online

BRAINS Access Codes for Agency Admins in FMRT Online

Black History Month

As we celebrate Black History Month, let us recognize the achievements of the past and commit ourselves to fostering an environment that uplifts and amplifies the voices of Black professionals in public safety, psychology, and medicine. By embracing diversity, we strengthen our ability to address our world’s complex challenges. 

Together, let us honor the legacy of Black history-makers who overcame challenges to protect their community proudly. Let us continue working towards a future where everyone can contribute to advancing safety, justice, and well-being regardless of their race.

Thank you for having us at SCSA 2024! 

This month, we spotlight the remarkable efforts of the South Carolina Sheriffs following a successful journey to the 2024 South Carolina Sheriff’s Association Winter Conference. Alongside Angela, I am thrilled to share the positive experiences and conversations we shared with our partner agencies. We are happy to see the continued emphasis on fostering mental well-being and best hiring practices for South Carolina law enforcement officers. As we look ahead, we eagerly anticipate seeing many of you at the SC FBI NAA conference, where we can further collaborate and share knowledge.

Coming to a Conference Near You! 

February 29th -March 3rd 

• SC FBI NAA Spring Conference