Approximately what percentage of an officer's time is devoted to communication?

Communication is a fundamental aspect of policing, accounting for a significant portion of an officer's daily activities. It involves not only speaking with the public, witnesses, and suspects but also engaging in crucial interactions with colleagues and other agencies. The percentage indicated—72%—reflects extensive research and observations of police work and highlights the importance of effective communication in various policing tasks, including gathering information, building community relationships, resolving conflicts, and reporting.

This substantial percentage suggests that a large part of an officer’s role goes beyond physical enforcement of the law, requiring strong verbal and written communication skills to address the complexities encountered in the field. This insight informs training and professional development strategies within police departments, emphasizing the need for officers to continually improve their communication abilities for more effective community policing and officer safety.