Welcome back to “The Bravery Blueprint.” This episode features Sergeant Jeff Daukas, a 24 year law enforcement veteran and advocate for ethics and integrity in the profession.
Leadership and Ethics in Law Enforcement
During our conversation, we explored the concept of leadership and its impact on law enforcement culture. Jeff emphasized that titles and ranks are not what define a leader. Instead, genuine engagement and the ability to connect with people are what truly matter.
He believes that leadership should be viewed as an action rather than a status. This perspective encourages officers to take ownership of their roles and responsibilities, fostering an environment where they can positively influence their colleagues and communities.
The Importance of Communication
Effective communication is crucial in law enforcement. Jeff shared his experience of mentoring both younger and more seasoned officers, stressing the need for open dialogue. He believes that building rapport with the community starts with simple conversations and genuine interest.
Jeff's approach includes engaging with community members, asking them what would make them feel safer, and listening to their concerns. This method not only helps gather valuable information but also builds trust between law enforcement and the community.
Curiosity as a Leadership Skill
Curiosity is a powerful tool for law enforcement officers. Jeff encourages officers to be insatiably curious, as it leads to better interactions with the public and a deeper understanding of the communities they serve. He shares a story about a time he engaged with a former inmate in a local convenience store, illustrating how vulnerability and openness can create meaningful connections.
This interaction not only helped the individual but also showcased the importance of viewing everyone as a person with a story, rather than just a statistic or a potential criminal. Jeff’s ability to connect with people on a personal level exemplifies true leadership.
Courageous Nobility: A Concept for Modern Leadership
Jeff has coined the term "courageous nobility," which embodies the idea of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity. He believes that integrity is at the core of courageous nobility, and that leaders should strive to live out their values in front of their teams. This concept emphasizes the importance of making decisions that prioritize people over personal gain or reputation.
Creating a Culture of Openness
Jeff highlights the need for law enforcement agencies to foster a culture of openness and vulnerability. Leaders should model this behavior by being transparent and approachable. This not only encourages team members to voice their concerns but also cultivates a healthier work environment where individuals feel valued and supported.
Bridging the Gap in Law Enforcement
One of the key challenges facing law enforcement today is the gap between knowledge and practice. Jeff stressed that many officers focus too much on career preservation and status, often at the expense of their ethics and integrity.
To address this issue, Jeff encourages officers to prioritize their values and build their careers on a foundation of integrity. He believes that by doing so, they can create a more effective and compassionate law enforcement community.
A Call to Action for Law Enforcement Leaders
Our conversation with Sergeant Jeff Daukas serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of leadership, ethics, and community connection in law enforcement. As leaders, we must prioritize integrity, foster open communication, and cultivate a culture of curiosity and support.
By doing so, we can bridge the gap between law enforcement and the communities we serve, ultimately leading to a safer and more just society. Remember, leadership is not just about titles; it's about the impact we have on those around us.
Travis Yates is the co-author of “The Courageous Police Leader” and has been training risk management and leadership for over two decades that have spanned thousands of students and 48 states. After dedicating over 30 years to the law enforcement profession, he is now working full-time consulting and training law enforcement leaders across the country.
Brian Ellis is a retired law enforcement lieutenant with over 25 years of service. He is the co-author of “The Theory of Magnus Ovea”, and his dedication to the theory of leadership led him to the National Command & Staff College, where he and his colleagues launched MAGNUSWorx, an education and data analytics platform dedicated to peak performance and wellbeing. Brian is a speaker, coach, and trainer for government and private organizations, dedicated to promoting leadership, high-performing teams, and providing others with actionable information for personal preparedness and resilience. His work has been featured in various media outlets, including numerous articles, book chapters, and podcasts.
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