Which of the following is NOT a technique to include in promotions?

The correct answer, which indicates that community outreach is not a technique traditionally included in promotional processes, highlights the primary focus of standard promotion assessments, which typically emphasize individual candidate evaluation based on their qualifications and performance.

Written tests, oral interviews, and assessment centers are all structured methods commonly used to evaluate a candidate's skills, knowledge, and suitability for promotion. Written tests assess theoretical knowledge and understanding of policies and procedures. Oral interviews allow for a deeper exploration of a candidate's reasoning, communication skills, and fit for leadership roles. Assessment centers involve a series of simulations and exercises designed to evaluate candidates in real-world situations, focusing on their decision-making and interpersonal skills.

In contrast, community outreach, while an important aspect of police practice and building relationships with the public, does not serve as a direct measure of an individual officer's qualifications for promotion. This activity is more about engaging with the community and improving public relations rather than evaluating the abilities or readiness of a candidate for a higher rank within the police department. Thus, the inclusion of community outreach is not aligned with the formal criteria typically used in promotional assessments.