The Mesa Way
In a recent interview with Sergeant Elisha Gibbs from the Mesa Police Department, we gained insight into the innovative recruitment strategies employed by the department, shedding light on the challenges faced and the transformative impact of their partnership with Epic Recruiting. Sergeant Gibbs, who has served with the Mesa Police Department for over 12 years, spoke on the complexities of recruiting in a competitive job market, emphasizing the need to stand out amidst fierce competition from other agencies. “It’s hard because it’s just competitive,” she remarked, highlighting the necessity to showcase what Mesa uniquely offers to potential recruits.
One of the key aspects that sets Mesa apart is their proactive approach to recruitment, exemplified by their pre-hire program for sworn positions. Sergeant Gibbs explained, “We put them through workouts in the morning, stress management classes – to prepare them to be successful in the academy.” This commitment to nurturing recruits from the outset underscores Mesa’s dedication to their employees’ long-term success.
Mesa’s focus on branding and social media presence has been pivotal in attracting a new generation of officers. “We’re finding success in a first to contact, first to contact,” Sergeant Gibbs stated, highlighting their personalized approach to engaging with applicants. The department’s active presence on platforms like TikTok has garnered attention nationwide, amplifying their reach and attracting candidates who resonate with Mesa’s values. By leveraging social media platforms like TikTok, they have been able to reach a wider audience and generate organic interest in law enforcement careers. By showcasing diverse career pathways within the department, Mesa aims to attract individuals at various stages of their professional journey.
Epic’s role in Mesa’s recruitment journey was instrumental in crafting a distinct identity for the department. Sergeant Gibbs praised Epic’s professionalism and expertise, noting how they “showcased themselves and set themselves apart because of their professionalism, their expertise in the industry.” Epic’s understanding of law enforcement coupled with their tailored approach to highlighting Mesa’s unique culture proved invaluable in elevating the department’s recruitment efforts.
Since partnering with Epic, Mesa has witnessed significant transformations in their recruitment process. Their revamped website and branding initiatives have garnered praise from both local and national audiences. “I don’t know how many times I’ve talked to someone on the phone and they say, ‘Hey, I like your website. You guys seem new. You’re modern, you’re relevant,'” shared Sergeant Gibbs.
In essence, Mesa Police Department’s partnership with Epic exemplifies the power of innovative recruitment strategies in addressing the evolving needs of law enforcement agencies. Through a blend of personalized engagement, strategic branding, and digital outreach, Mesa has positioned itself as a desirable destination for aspiring officers nationwide.
As Sergeant Gibbs aptly puts it, “We’re really trying to build a foundation of ‘come work for us.’ But let’s get you through a 25-year career happy and healthy.” With their forward-thinking approach and commitment to excellence, the Mesa Police Department continues to pave the way for the future of law enforcement recruitment.