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A Day in the Life Garda Trainee

Steven Kilgannon, Garda Trainee

Steven Kilgannon is a Garda Trainee in Templemore Garda College. Steven had previously worked in the hospitality sector where he gained relevent experience in complaint handling and the development of his communication skills. Steven strongly recommends joining the Garda Reserve for a real insight into what the job entails.

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What were the main 'career decision' milestones in your life so far?

The main career decision milestones so far have been the ability to place in the top 500 out of 25, 000 applications and starting in Templemore Garda Training College.

Who are the people who most influenced your career direction?

Myself. I decided I wanted to join the guards when I was 17. I put my name in for the notification when I was 18.

How did you go about getting your current job?

Drive, determination and confidence. It was a tough application process but by using these three qualities I suceeded.

Describe a typical day?

A typical day consists of lectures both classroom and theatre based. Breaks during the day consists of fun with colleagues such as table tennis or just general banter.

Evening times consist of activities such as gym /indoor soccer/ swimming table tennis and much more. All in all a very enjoyable day.

What are the main tasks and responsibilities?

The main tasks and responsibilities are working with others and the ability to communicate effectively.

The main responsibilities are to ensure that you conduct yourself in a manner that is both acceptable to yourself and the organisation.

What are the main challenges?

Challenges can range from difficult lectures i.e. a lot of information to problem based learning. Also being able to find a medium between all 4 members of your team.

What do you like most?

I am very much a people person and love the opportunities which this job provides.

Is there anything that isn't great?

At present nothing, outside the college it's the level of respect towards the organisation in recent times.

What particular skills do you bring to your workplace?

I bring a range of skills such as communication skills, the ability to listen and interpret situations. The ability to comfort fellow colleagues in tough times.

What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?

Maths / Geography / English / Irish / Irish / Construction / Biology

They didn't influence my career path. I spent my time working my way up in a hotel to gain experience in complaint handling and communication skills.

What is your education to date?

I completed my Leaving Cert. I also completed a few smaller courses through the hotel environment.

What aspects of your education have proven most important for your job?

What have been the most rewarding events in your career so far?

Getting through the application process.

What personal qualities do you have that helps you in your career?

I am friendly, approachable, good listener, good communicator and an all round people person.

What is your dream job?

My dream job is to be working within An Garda Síochana. I will strive to get whatever level within the force that I feel I can suceed at.

Does your job allow you to have a lifestyle you are happy with?

Very much so. Your job will always be as good as you make it.

What advice would you give to someone considering this job?

Do not judge the job by your experience in the college. Join the Garda Reserve to gain experience of the outside world. Be yourself and put in the effort to achieve your goals.

What are the three most important personal characteristics required for the job?

Good communication skills required as well as an ability to be considerate of others feelings. Being able to control stress levels is also important.

Have you undertaken, or do you plan to undertake any further training as part of your job?

Absolutely I am open to any courses which will improve my performance and effectiveness within the organisation.

What kinds of work experience would provide a good background for this position?

Garda Reserve and hotel work.

What is your current job title?

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