Rank Success | What successful Sergeants, Inspectors and other police promotion candidates say

Promotion Support: It Works
Don't just take my word for it...

I believe stories give more insight than statistics.

I am delighted when officers choose to share their success with me. Whether it's passing promotion boards first time or on their first time with me! I have the privilege of providing aspirational officers from around the UK with confidential support on 'What Works'. This includes eGuides, workshops and 1-1 coaching. I am proud to share this feedback here, while you may also find others' stories and challenges resonate. I look forward to adding your name to this growing list!

'How would you sum up the workshop in just 3 words?'

Sergeant, Inspector, C.Inspector & More...

“PASSED FIRST TIME! I attended the Rank Success Promotion Masterclass in Birmingham & was met by Steve who made everyone feel welcome. The venue was well set up with stationery & refreshments for the day. Steve made sense of the NPPF/CVF & explained how all my evidence would translate into the interview process. He provided clarity around how to structure my answers & how to present it to the panel. Following a delay in sitting my board due to Covid Steve kept in touch ensuring I was on track & assisted me with the application process. I can’t recommend him & the Masterclass enough, money well spent. I will be back when the time is right for my Insp promotion process. Thanks again Steve.”
Stu - Passed Sergeant Promotion Process First Time

“Hi Steve, I just wanted to let you know that I attended your Sgt to Inspectors course in January 2020 and I received my result that I passed first time my Inspectors interview board. I can’t thank you enough the advice you gave around start preparing early and don’t leave it to chance. I felt very prepared and felt confident when I left the interview room. I shall be recommending you to my friends and colleagues. Thank you for your help.”
Mo - Passed Inspector Promotion Board First Time

“Enjoyed your blog & loved your Inspector guide. Your mnemonic for interview responses got me promoted & landed me a secondment too!”
David - Passed Inspector Promotion Board

“I found your Inspector guides invaluable to put me on the right track, but the two hour coaching session was fantastic & really raised my knowledge & confidence.”
Andy - Passed Inspector Promotion Board

“After almost 4 years of acting, I passed the Inspectors board on my 4th time of trying. Your digital guides as study aids helped me focus and concentrate on what was important but it was your promotion masterclass that really hit home what I needed to do to succeed. I couldn’t have done it without you. Thank you.”
Lee - Passed Inspector Promotion Board

“Steve, thought I would drop you a quick note to let you know I got promoted to Inspector. I am in no doubt your guides assisted me in getting there.”
Stuart - Passed Inspector Promotion Board

“Having failed a previous board and a couple paper sifts I attended Steve’s Masterclass as a 'last straw' in my attempts to be promoted to Sergeant. The day spent with Steve for the Masterclass was not as I expected it would be. Steve had prepared information specifically for me in relation to my force which made me feel incredibly welcome and as though I was having a bespoke input, despite there being several other officers there.

Having acted as a Sergeant for several years and looked at varying frameworks for promotion culminating in the current CVF, the “advice” offered from well meaning ranks above me had confused and 'muddied the water' in my own mind. Steve was able to de-mystify the CVF whilst reminding me that I was going to present myself as a capable sergeant and to not be overly worried by “key words and phrases”. Instead to be confident that I had underpinned each example I had with the role of a sergeant. The image of Bald Stew was therefore something I carried with me into my board having thought about this when developing my examples.

The board itself, having been there before, was a much different experience. Within my force it is a presentation based upon a critical incident and then your action plan for dealing with numerous issues at an underperforming station. From Steve I had in my back pocket the hierarchical responsibilities and leadership priorities of a sergeant – organisation, CJS etc – and found this a good fit to my presentation task. I felt this aided me in sounding prepared, confident and organised. My conclusion was met with smiles and "no further questions" for the first part of my board. This allowed me to relax and feel confident going into the competency based interview part of the board. On first glance the CVF is incredibly confusing, to have it broken down step by step with clear diagrams was so powerful. To then take this away and rebuild it around my policing experience to provide my examples, meant I felt prepared and incredibly confident around the content of my answers as well as having simple, effective responses to questions such as “why you”, “what have you done.” I could talk myself up!

Having been successful at this process, that day spent with Steve and the subsequent preparation I undertook also aided me in my substantive position as it had enabled me to take a step back from the CVF and appreciate my own strengths. Especially how I clearly provided the support and motivation to those officers who worked within my teams.

I have now passed the Inspector's exam and am going to attend another Masterclass with Steve to aid preparation for a future board process where I intend to be successful first time around. I do not envisage being fortunate enough to have acting or temporary experience at the Inspector rank before there is an advertised process and whilst I now recognise that this is not essential, I know that I will benefit from Steve’s input on how to prepare. I am confident that once again Steve will focus my mind on policing and why we do it, highlight the importance of the individual within the rank, signpost some excellent external material and hopefully introduce me to Bald Stew’s higher ranked sibling. There will be lightbulb moments within the Masterclass where I ‘ find' my first example and that will start me on the path to success once again.”
James - Passed Sergeant Promotion Process

“Thought I’d let you know, I got through. Thanks, very insightful got me thinking further out the box than I was. Some absolute gold added to my plan for the assessments. Definitely a few lines which saw me survive the board.”
Stu - Passed Inspector Promotion Board

“Hi Steve, I cannot thank you enough for your help on the course and the time you spent looking at my draft application as I’ve worked my socks off the last couple of years. I passed the promotion application and went on to pass the Sergeant board too (coming top in the force in my interview)! I am now promoted. I also applied for another force at the same time and passed their Sergeant Promotion process too! (an application form and interview) but decided to stay where I am for the time being, however this door is left open so I can transfer after I complete my NPPF. I hope this email finds you well and once again thank you!”
Maria - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“Really pleased having just got through the sergeant promotion process. I attended your Masterclass and had your guides. Everyone should use this. Brilliant friendly service that really focuses on what you need to know. I will def use again.”
Rebecca - Passed Inspector Promotion Board

“Just dropping you a line to let you know I successfully navigated the Inspectors promotion board! Really chuffed and this result wouldn’t have been possible without the platform and supporting material you provided. You got me in the right space at the right time. I did quite well & I’m happy to say that the interview felt really comfortable which is thanks to the preparation (the right preparation) which you tuned me in to. All the best.”
Dan - Passed Inspector Promotion Board

“ Hi Steve, hope you & your family & friends are all well in this unprecedented time. I wanted to let you know that I had my Inspector promotion board on 1st April & pleased to say I received the call yesterday that I had passed! First time too! Many thanks, for a fantastic day, the course really helped focus my preparation & encouraged me. I have been & will continue to recommend you to others! Wishing you the best.”
Mike - Passed Inspector Promotion Board First Time

“ Following on from your promotion seminar, I just wanted to let you know that I’ve had my Inspector board results today and have passed!! Thank you so much. I really believe you helped me tap into something that was always there but maybe I didn’t articulate previously. I wasn’t gifted with being naturally able where processes such as these are concerned but frustratingly I was getting good results in the workplace. I came to you on recommendation and I will be sure to pass on the same to others. I’m really grateful I was put in touch with yourself - it undoubtedly sent me massive steps in the right direction.”
Becky - Passed Inspector Promotion Board

“ Good afternoon Steve, I had one of the best phone calls I think I have had in a long time yesterday to say that I passed the Sgt board. Thank you for the information and advice through your workshop and literature. I will certainly recommend you to anyone who is thinking about getting promoted. Kind regards.”
Tom - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ I passed and am now in post after 7 years of trying. Thanks for the support and advice. You contributed to my success and I am grateful for that.”
Chris - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Hi Steve, Just wanted to let you know that I passed my inspectors board. I am confident that a lot of my marks were gained from attending your workshop. And I think I watched the Colin Powell clip at least 8 times! Many thanks.”
Nick - Passed Inspector Promotion Board

“ Hi Steve, Just want to drop you a message to let you know I have been successful through the Sgt process (Application, SBI, and micro exercises) I am currently awaiting my posting. Your guides were very helpful. Thanks again for your help and advice.”
Rob - Passed Inspector Promotion Board

“Hi, just a quick thank you. I’ve been OSPRE qualified 10 years and sat my first sergeant board successfully this month. I bought the 2 Sergeant’s guides and really found they helped focus my preparation. Used the mnemonic in my presentation to get off to a confident start. I’ve already recommended you to a few who didn’t get through.”
Darren - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board First Time

“ Hi Steve, just to let you know I passed my promotion board first time! I really wanted to thank you, your workshop really gave me the edge over other candidates in a very competitive assessment.”
Mike - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board First Time

“ A huge thank you! I have just found out this week I passed my Inspectors' Board. I downloaded your promotion guides & they were a massive help. I have previously used another company's online guide, but I found your guides to be much more user friendly. I have recommended you to so many people. There is so much mystery surrounding promotion & your guides made it clear & easy to understand what was expected of me. Thanks again, Zoe. ”
Zoe - Passed Inspector Promotion Board

“ I have just passed my Sgts promotion board 1st time, I had no previous knowledge of the promotion process but I purchased your promotion application & interview guides, which gave me a huge insight & the edge, thank you! ”
Steve - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board First Time

“ Steve, Just to let you know I was successful in my recent Sergeant's promotion board. The masterclass I attended 13 days prior to my interview helped immensely. I thoroughly recommend to any promotion candidates your masterclass and guides. Without doubt preparation is key & the knowledge you have around the process played a huge role in my eventual success, a big thank you. ”
Richard - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ I passed :-) . Your masterclass & assistance definitely made the difference. Thanks again for all the help & support. ”
Wayne - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Just to let you know I passed the Sgts board, the masterclass & the Skype session definitely helped, the presentation went well (couldn’t have gone any better) with your guidance & structure... also, thanks for the pep talk when I felt I was having a meltdown a few days before the board! ”
Craig - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Steve, I have just passed my Inspector Board achieving top marks in the presentation, interview and briefing exercise! Attending your Masterclass 3 months ago transformed my preparation and was a lightbulb moment. It taught me structure, best delivery of my examples and a comprehensive understanding of the CVF. Following this up with reading your iBooks and blogs coupled with many hours of practice nailed it for me. My journey after disappointment at last years Board is complete! I should have done this years ago. ”
Jamie - Passed Inspector Promotion Board

“ I just wanted to let you know that I have today I found out I have been successful at Inspector promotion. This was my first attempt. Thank you for all your material which really helped me get through. I will pass your masterclass details onto others so they can attend and benefit as I have done. ”
Andy - Passed Inspector Promotion Board First Time

“ Hi Steve, I recently attended your course in Birmingham. I would just like to update you that I was successful at interview and have already been promoted to Detective Inspector. The masterclass opened up my perspective of how to introduce my wider strategic understanding into my examples and how my evidence contributed on a larger scale. I also went away and considered what I thought was important in leadership to me personally and shaped that around a personal statement against my qualities and experience to end the interview. I was really pleased to hear I didn’t just pass, my evidence and delivery was commended. Thanks for all your help. ”
Simon - Passed Inspector Promotion Board

“ Steve, after attending your masterclass I was successful in promotion to Inspector. Using the same techniques and with your support I have again been successful for a specialist DI post last week. This proves the high quality and durability of your course content. I received glowing feedback from my interview board. I would highly recommend Rank Success if you want to win first time. ”
Nathan - Promoted as Detective Inspector

“ Your masterclass paid off! I passed my Inspector's Board! Thanks for your guidance and inspiring course. ”
Tim - Passed Inspector Promotion Board First Time

“ Having failed my Sergeant board in 2016, I did your Masterclass at the Motorcycle Museum in early 2017. No boards in 2017, so first Sergeant boards since your course was last week [late 2018]. I passed and I’m due in post in January! Thanks very much. ”
Chris - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Hi Steve I chatted with you a while back and attended your Masterclass in Birmingham. I just wanted to let you know my force ran a promotion process recently and I was successful. I have to say your event was great and helped me answer in depth particularly around my own CPD. I’ll see you for Inspectors next! ”
Karl - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Steve, Three weeks ago I bought your interview success e-guide. I was up against the clock, in a very specialised role with limited time to prepare for my board. To be honest I’d left it very late to prepare as I was not confident that I’d be successful at the application stage due to my role in the covert arena. I was notified that I was through to interview and had two weeks to prepare. After some research I found your website and purchased the interview success guide. I honestly believe it has made the difference. This morning, after sitting my board 5 days ago I was told I was successful. Thank you for putting such a detailed and informative package together. It enabled me to identify my strengths and weaknesses and act upon them, and also showed me how to make my evidence fit the abilities to prepare detailed top scoring answers. Thank you for providing this service and helping me pass my Sgts board. ”
Alex - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ I downloaded the evidence guide, interview guide & then attended Steve’s masterclass. The evidence guide helped me cut a lot of unnecessary info out of my examples while using the interview guide to structure responses. This time I was more flexible with my answers, I didn't regurgitate the competency behaviour but the way you broke them down in the guides, I knew I was hitting them confidently. Certainly having a broader experience helped and the different reports you referred me to helped me link my examples back to policing priorities and challenges faced by my force, which I'm sure gave me an advantage. My board this time was a pleasant experience, I knew from the effort put in, attending the masterclass and my own prep afterwards, that I could confidently answer the panel's questions. These were time limited, but this time I had so much more to give. Next step for me is Inspector, I would recommend Rank Success to any officer looking to get ahead of the game. ”
Dave - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Morning Steve, I just wanted to let you know that I passed my Sergeant interview and came 2nd! I found that the workshop and interview guide really helped me to focus and structure my prep for the interview and feel more confident about what I needed to do. Many thanks.”
Julie - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ I used your resources to successfully pass my PC to Sgt board. Thanks again, superb resources. I've been telling every candidate to use Rank Success.”
Jake - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Hi Steve, Just a quick one to say thanks. Got my results on Friday and I’ve been promoted! Money well spent, I’ll definitely be recommending Rank Success to any officers looking for promotion.”
Paul - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Hi Steve, I have just had news that I have passed the latest Sergeant promotion board! I am over the moon as it was my third attempt (but first after attending your masterclass in June this year). Thanks for the focus and clarity that you gave me, and I will definitely recommend your course to any of my colleagues in the future who need help negotiating the confusing and daunting police promotion process! Many thanks. ”
Matt - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Hi Steve, Just had my board results and passed with flying colours! I was on your recent masterclass at the beginning of November. A lot of what you said gave me a lot of food for thought and was so incredibly valuable in trying to sell my self as a leader to the board. Forever grateful. ”
Samantha - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board on the First Attempt

“ Hi Steve, Had my board last week and passed, I felt so much more confident walking in and it clearly showed! Thanks for all your help, and I’ll see you when it’s the inspectors interviews next! ”
James - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ With 3 days to go until my board I attended Steve's masterclass. It gave me the last minute boost and focus I needed. I passed my board and without attending would not have done so well. Steve's targeted tips and no nonsense advice was golden. I would highly recommend Steve's masterclasses to anyone who wants to pass first time. ”
Nathan - Passed Inspector Promotion Board on the First Attempt

“ Steve, I’m am delighted to say I passed!!!! Thank you so much for your help on the course it was extremely helpful and worth it’s weight in gold. I’ve took on board lots of aspects I can use on my journey. Will recommend to colleagues without doubt. ”
Michelle - Passed Inspector Promotion Board

“ Morning Steve, I'm pleased to say I was successful and placed in the promotion pool. Thank you for your insight and input on the day, it helped me enter the process with a more rounded approach, which gave me the confidence to actually enjoy the assessment centre and treat it as a professional chat. ”
Andy - Passed Inspector Promotion Board

“ Good morning, I have just found out I passed my Inspectors board. I bought your ebooks, their content and advice definitely helped in the interview. Thank you very much! ”
Nicky - Passed Inspector Promotion Board

“ I applied for promotion three times with my force and was unsuccessful each time. From wanting to give up and thinking it may not be for me, I attended Steve's promotion masterclass where I got to grip with how and what I needed to do. I tried one final time applying for advertised Inspector vacancies in three different forces. All three forces had different application processes (A “Why Me & Why Now” Letter, an online application and a standard application).

I was successful in all three paper sifts that followed and was invited to interviews/assessment centres. Steve’s ebooks helped me to prepare for my presentations, briefings and formal interviews. I went from 3 Failures to 3 Passes!

I passed all three promotion boards with flying colours coming top in two processes. Going from three failures to a choice of three forces! I wish I could take all the positions offered but have to decide where is my career best suited! I could not have done it without Steve’s guidance and support!! ”
Deepak - Passed THREE Inspectors Board, on the trot!

“ Hello Steve, Just wanted to let you know that I passed my Sergeant promotion process and that I am really happy! I have no doubt the result would have been different if it wasn't for your masterclass, workbooks and continued support. What worked in my interview was the role of the Sergeant (mnemonic), Public confidence and the ENAMEL structure of answering. I will be recommending Rank Success to colleagues and will come back to you when going for the next rank! ”
Ben - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Hi Steve, Just thought I’d drop you a line to let you know that I passed my Insp. board first time! If I’m being honest I thought I was a little bumpy in places, so it was a real joy to receive the news I’d passed! Your downloadable manuals and the Masterclass were no doubt a large part of my success in this process, so I just wanted to say thanks! ”
Brian - Passed Inspector Promotion Board First Time

“ Had my interview, found out last night! I found your material a god send, it gave me guidance re structure for answers and helped me to understand the framework criteria. Further to this your advice gave me the determination to prepare well for the interview. ”
Deborah - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Just wanted to drop a line & say thanks for the material. Passed my Inspector panel at 1st attempt and found it all a big help in setting my head up with what I needed to get through & what was otherwise clutter. ”
Nick - Passed Inspector Promotion Board First Time

“ I attended your masterclass at the end of March and just wanted to let you know that, at the third attempt, I finally passed the sgts promotion board. I wasn't able to immediately read up and review etc, however one thing that did stick and I used in the board, was the report you provided, linked to one of my examples. I got the call to say I'd passed. I was told I'd done really well! Something obviously worked :-) ”
Lynn - Passed Sergeant Promotion Process

“ My colleague and I met with Steve before our PC to PS promotion board. We found the session very helpful, especially with out lack of knowledge about the new CVF. Steve provided us with all the tools and motivation we needed to prepare for the board, and we also found the follow up document very useful. We found it was helpful to meet with Steve early on so we had plenty of time to prepare as we hadn’t quite realised the enormity of the task ahead! Would definitely recommend and we passed. ”
Sarah - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board First Time

“ I passed so all good. They don’t make it easy. Long Process. Thanks for the guide it gave me some good background reading.”
James - Passed Inspector Promotion Process

“ Steve, just to let you know I passed the DS board today. Your material and tips were invaluable, definitely a wise investment.”
Sam - Passed Sergeant Promotion Process

“ Hi Steve, just wanted to let you know I passed my Sergeant board this week! I went on your masterclass last September and really thought about everything I learned when doing my preparation. I even managed to get the whole mnemonic into one of my answers. A big thank you.”
Lesley - Passed Sergeant Promotion Process

“ Prior to attending the Masterclass I was very much focused on my evidence and me and didn’t really look beyond what I had in front of me. The class helped me look at the bigger picture, and think more about the organsiation and how my focus should be about how my experience fits into the needs of the police service. It just completely changed how I looked at everything and it was like the penny just dropped. ”
Ann - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Just to let you know I passed the promotion board!! Scored well on my interview. ”
Ann - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Hi Steve I just wanted to say thank you for taking the time to talk to me about the promotion board. You really helped ground me and bring me back to basics having felt pretty stressed in the build up. I knew I had done the leg work preparing examples but needed to calm down, relax and think about how I could best sell myself on the day. I took on board all of your interview tips and advice and passed the board at the first attempt. ”
Alec - Achieved Promotion

“ Hi, I’d just like to say a big thank you. I passed my Sgts boards recently. I used your interview guide, which helped me think broader and identified development areas that I was able to work on prior to my interview.”
Shaun - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Steve, I just wanted to keep in touch. I am a Met officer who spoke to you quickly on the phone. I got through the Sergeant process with a strong score. I used your free bits and books for ideas. I think the main bit was saying what you will do as a Sgt, not just want you have done. I am looking at the Inspector process 2019 onwards and will be coming to a class & buying all the Inspector bits. The blogs you put out and motivational captions are great, thank you. See you at your earliest masterclass in 2019. ”
Steve - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Steve, I am pleased to inform you that I have been successful in my Sergeants Promotion Process. The guidance you provided me with during the one to one session and email support was simply invaluable and focused my efforts in the right direction to pass the process first time. I would have no hesitation in recommending your support to others and will hopefully see you in the future in preparation for the next rank. Thank you again. ”
Carlos - Achieved Promotion to Sergeant First Time

“ Hi Steve, l just wanted to tell you l passed my board 2nd time round. Can't thank you enough for your help not just on the course but after. Growth mindset was very much the key! I’ll be recommending you for sure. Thank you. ”
Lorna - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Hi Steve, Just wanted to touch base and let you know I was successful at interview for promotion. ”
Martin - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Steve’s session allowed me to really dig in to the nuts and bolts of the role of the Inspector. It helped me to go away and elevate my thinking to the level of the next rank. His literature and constant supply of email updates really kept me focussed, took the strategic stress out of the process and allowed me to concentrate on me and my values. ”
Steve - Passed Inspector Promotion Board (first time!)

“ Steve, I just wanted to drop you an e-mail to update you that I sat the final part of the Inspectors Promotion process on Thursday 21st December. I am pleased to inform you that I have been successful. Your help & guidance was invaluable, focussing me on what was expected of an Inspector, processes for answering questions to ensure strong evidence was presented etc. I cannot thank you enough & I have no hesitation in recommending your support to others. Merry Christmas. ”
Chris - Newly Promoted Inspector

“ Just to let you know I had my results today from my Sergeant assessment centre. The process was two work based scenarios and a 45 minute interview. Having not acted since 2009, I am extremely happy and would like to thank you for all your help and advice. ”
Hannah - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Thanks to Steve and Rank Success I was successful at my first Sergeants' Board! I travelled some considerable distance from my force area to one of Steve's Masterclasses. It proved to be invaluable. The best money I ever spent on my own promotion development! The Masterclass gave me the right frame of mind and motivation to succeed. Along with the online resources and emails that Steve followed up with after the course, I found a structure for my preparation, which was second to none.
Steve's information is up to date and he knows the process from application to board inside out. Using Rank Success' resources, I was able to formulate a successful application form and a structured 'plan of attack' for the actual board. Steve does not lay the answers on a plate; there is still a great deal of your own work to do, but he provides a thought-provoking foundation for your preparation. I am convinced that the Masterclass and relevant booklets helped me to 'edge away from the pack', ensuring that I really stood in good stead at the board! Thanks again Steve and a highly recommended course! ”
Austen - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ A pre-Christmas good news story of getting my head down and getting through the promotion process at long last!! Having struggled with the process several times you reignited my passion in policing and made me realise that sense of purpose was key to what I was going to tell my board. Your energy and commitment to supporting me as a client was essential... thank you, I look forward to working with you in the future! ”
James - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ It takes a lot of hard work and results to get that senior management team support to be put forward for the promotion board.
Steve’s guidance allowed me to bring my cloud of accumulated knowledge and experience into a focused ordered structure to maximise scoring in those key 45 minutes you have to shine. I would thoroughly recommend the one to one support as I believe this made that difference that allowed me to pass my Inspectors board first time. I never really considered one to one support until a colleague mentioned it (Who had been successful through Steve’s support). I have no hesitation in recommending this service to others aspiring to take that next step towards promotion. The session is excellent value, which will be more than recouped on my first pay packet as inspector. ”
Paul - Passed Inspector Promotion Board First Time

“ Steve, for the second time in 3 years: thank you, thank you and thank you. ”
Rob - Passed Chief Inspector Application

“ Hi Steve, Just wanted to drop you an email to say that I was successful in the sergeant process. My interview feedback was great, one of the best they marked! Thank you so much for your help. ”
Nadine - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Hi Steve, We spoke a few times about the sergeants board (I'm the lady on maternity leave) and I'm pleased to say I passed the board. Your interview guide definitely got me through the day. Just wanted to say a huge thank you for your help and time. I can't say thank you enough for your support through the process. ”
Gemma - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ I passed my Sergeant board! I came out of there and felt like I had over prepared! A very reassuring feeling! Thank you so much for all of your help.I just wanted to say that I would not hesitate to recommend you and the masterclass to my colleagues. Despite having limited time to prepare for the interview, you gave me the confidence and knowledge to walk into the interview room with all of the detail I required - enabling me to stand out from the rest. You gave up your time to help when I needed that little bit extra advice and for that I am very grateful. I am already planning on studying for my Inspectors exam - I will be in touch in the future without a doubt! ”
Emma - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Hello Steve. Just to let you know I passed my Sergeant's board this week. I built on last year and tuned in to what they really wanted to hear. Also practice presentations which made a huge difference to my success. ”
Rachael - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Steve, just to let you know that I was successful in the Inspector process. There is no doubt your masterclass and in particular the books I got from you played a part in my success. ”
Richard - Passed Inspector Promotion Process

“ Hi Steve, just found out that I was successful on my boards and have been promoted after 3yrs in a temporary sergeant role. Thanks for the masterclass held in Birmingham at the end of September 2017 and the material you provided, there is no doubt it gave me confidence and focus to my preparation work. Thanks again for your assistance, I will be highly recommending you to my colleagues. ”
Gwynn - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Hi Steve, I passed my promotion board and going into my new role next week. Thanks for your help. ”
Martin - Passed Sergeant Promotion Process

“ Steve, thank you so much. With assistance of your interview guide and your blogs, which I read intently, I’ve passed the Sergeant boards first attempt. Brilliant material, gave me the edge I feel especially in the interview. ”
Stuart - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board First Time

“ Hi Steve, Passed the board finally, 4th time lucky! Thanks for the guidance Steve, your session gave me some good ideas on how to structure answers and how to prepare - money well spent! All the best, will speak to you when I pass the Inspector exams! ”
Chris - Passed Sergeant Promotion Board

“ Hi Steve, Just thought I’d let you know that I’ve just had the call to say I’ve passed my first SGTs board. Not only that but they have highlighted me for the next rank too. (completely unexpected!) Thanks for all your help. ”
Debbie - Passed Sergeant Selection Process First Time

“ Just like to say thank you. Just passed my promotion board and read 5 parts of your 7 part blog on promotion. Your articles are encouraging and thought provoking and gave me self confidence rather than conforming to someone else’s stereotype or model. I find them relevant, bite size and challenging, which I think is key to self reflecting and therefore progressing. ”
Nick - Passed Sergeant Selection Board

“ Hi Steve, I wanted to say a huge thank you. I've recently passed the PC to Sgt process. I can honestly say that your Masterclass, along with your website and personal encouragement has been invaluable. You gave me the right direction to steer my study and gave me the tools to create a winning structure that saw me through on the day. I have already been recommending your services to people, and will continue to do so. Thank you so much. ”
Jonny - Passed Sergeant Selection Process First Time

“ I have recently passed my sergeants board first time and can safely say I wouldn't have had the confidence and drive to get through without ranksuccess. I started out totally mystified and unsure if what lay ahead and so nine months prior to my board I attended a masterclass. This took away some of the mystery for me and also gave me some confidence in my approach. Keen not to miss anything out, I also purchased the application guide and interview guide which were invaluable. Finally, I booked a one to one with Steve 6 weeks before my board. In between? Practice practice practice! Id say the most valuable part of my rank success experience include the guides, which i could reference at any point but also the fact that steve was there via email or phone to bring me back to focus when I contacted him in a panic, having hit a wall in my prep. It's a very hard process, but so worth it if you are willing and able to put the time and work in. Nothing comes easily, but ranksuccess tools guide you down the right path and give you the confidence that you need and can take with you as soon as you walk through that door on the day of your board. I get posted to my new team in the next couple of weeks and I still can't quite believe it! "
Ceri - Passed Sergeant Selection Process First Time

“ Hi Steve, some great news, I was successful at the Inspector’s process! With a top score. Thank you for your excellent Masterclass it made a HUGE difference. The practice and smart working helped tremendously. ”
Luke - Newly Promoted Inspector

“ I've tried for 9 years and sat 7 boards. This year I fully embraced your masterclass and passed, thanks for your help. Will definitely return for my inspectors.
I think what was different this time was looking at the process as lasting a year since I was unsuccessful at the last boards. Since then I was moved to a new team, then I generated a move to a new department. Each move I saw as a CPD opportunity. I ensured that I recorded evidence and thought of interview questions where I could use examples.
The result of this was when I had to complete my application I had a bank of questions ready to go, the difficulty was… too many examples. When it came to the interview I had a bank of examples to use depending on the questions.
One crucial change I made was concentrating on the rank I was going for. In the past I have tried to use the most serious incidents I had dealt with, trying to impress the board but failing to answer what I was asked. This time I concentrated on "I'm going for a Sergeants job", something I have done for 9 years. I stopped thinking they were looking for the next Chief Constable and gave examples of day to day work, proving I could run a team and being a good leader and manager.
I definitely see promotion as a process that lasts more than the two months from applications being published to interview. Through planning, this meant nerves that hindered me in the past were reduced. Thanks again. "
Dan - Passed Sergeant's Promotion Interview

" Steve, Thanks so much for the advice Tuesday lunchtime. Bought one of your books and took the mnemonic in with me! I Passed - 6th out of 20. It genuinely made a difference. Thanks so much - the run, porridge, water and extra advice did the trick. My wife will be in touch for the proper masterclass! ”
Rob - Passed Inspectors Selection Process

“ Steve, I meant to contact you sooner. I was notified in November that I passed the June 2016 promotion process and just received my substantive posting that begins in March. I purchased some of your electronic products including the interview guide and honestly believe this made the difference between pass or fail as I had a really good board and SJT but average scores on the Etray exercises. It does appear that processes are becoming more about ability to get through these extra tests away from the application and board and would urge any candidate to really do their homework on these. Many thanks for you products and support . ”
Paul - Passed Sergeants Promotion First Time

“ I managed to score 20/20 at local assessment, they knocked 1 mark off at moderation resulting in 19/20 - Your booklet obviously helped me shape my examples into exactly what they were looking for. ”
Rich - Sgt to Inspector candidate (in progress)

“ My first promotion board & I am pleased to say I passed! Thank you for your interview guide. I found it instrumental in formulating my answers. It covered a lot of topic areas that were tested. Thanks again. ”
Paul - Passed Sergeants Promotion First Time

“ Hi Steve, Just a quick one to say I had my board results through yesterday... and you can add another success to your long list! Many thanks for your assistance. ”
Frazer - Passed Inspectors Promotion Board

“ The workshop is invaluable in relation to two key areas - getting yourself properly motivated and secondly in getting you to think wider about leadership and your values and how they relate to your organisation. The one to one session with Steve for me was another excellent investment. It is an opportunity to discuss ideas around the role, leadership , your delivery and what you bring to the role you aspire to. It's an opportunity to practice answering questions and reflecting on how and what you want to get across in your board. Steve knows his stuff, he's experienced and he has an excellent success rate. The reality is that it is a small investment in time and money, that coupled with you putting the time and effort in will reap rewards. ”
Neil - Passed Sergeants Promotion Board First Time

“ Steve has mentored me over the last 2 years, by way of his promotion masterclass, one2one Skype coaching, and more recently his Inspectors’ application guide containing detailed examples. I also used his promotion interview guide which I found very insightful. I'd fallen at previous hurdles, but Steve was always there to encourage me, working with me and turning my frustrations into learning opportunities. Finally, after a long slog, I've got there. I had great feedback on my application and interview performance.Thank you. ”
Lee - Newly Promoted Inspector

“Worth every penny. I can highly recommend Steve’s guides, masterclass and one to one coaching. Many people including myself find promotion frustrating and confusing as to what is required. After failing a board previously Steve demystified the process and made clear what you need to do and learn to be successful. The masterclass was a good start to my preparation and in addition I had one to one coaching sessions. These were more focused on my individual needs and gave me great focus to exactly what I needed to do. Steve is passionate and professional about what he does and has a genuine interest in helping you to pass. I passed my board with confidence and have no doubt that I would not have done this without Steve’s input.”
'Tina' - Passed Inspectors Board

“ I passed!!! 3 x 4s and a 5 - needed minimums of 3. Thanks for your help.”
Tim - Passed Inspector Selection Process

“ Steve just to let you know I have been successful in my recent board. I am over the moon. The presentation I received from you around leadership was excellent. Leadership was a subject very much featured in my board. I will definitely be recommending your Masterclass to anyone who is serious about passing the board. Thank you again for all your help and support very much appreciated. ”
Naz - Passed Sergeants Promotion Board

“ I attended the promotion Masterclass, I was grateful for the mnemonics, advice and literature provided, it provided the foundation for my study.
Although I didn't use it all in my board, knowing it gave me the confidence and self-belief to pass first time. Thanks for all your help. ”
Ben - Passed Inspector Selection Process First Time

" I attended the group workshop which was enjoyable and gave me a valuable insight into the amount of preparation required. It also identified many and varied sources of further reading which I found very helpful. I've already been posted as DI ”
Chris - Passed Inspectors Selection Process

“ Having previously been unsuccessful in applying for promotion I booked onto the Rank Success masterclass. I came away feeling motivated, inspired and ready to succeed. I passed the interview first time and achieved my goal of promotion. ”
Dan - Passed Sergeants Promotion Board

“ I’m currently on top of the world. Out of 124 PC’s to get to the interview stage I’m 1 of only 23 that got promoted! I spent plenty of time studying, revising and preparing for my SGT interview board, however once I had begun this process of cramming my head with so many key points I had no idea of how to get it all to come back out in some type of functional order or if I was even on the right track?
Steve not only showed me how to focus my answers to prevent a “scatter gun” effect but he also introduced me to many areas that I hadn’t considered such as revision tips, key reading how to present myself and how to speak and really be heard with enthusiasm and passion. I have no doubt this was a major factor in my recent promotion from PC to SGT.
I smashed my first promotion process first time and don’t have to worry about the process again till I decide to go up a rank to Inspector. Working with Steve is a no brainer! After doing everything to get promoted that we do. If you are serious, committed and hungry for promotion how can you justify not doing everything possible to get through and make that career dream come true.
I will use Rank Success & Steve again when I take the next step and would say to anyone else “ is not using a outside company to assist you in achieving your goal in such a competitive promotion process a regret that you’re willing to have when you fail?” If you have tried and failed to get promoted step it up a gear and use Steve. If this is your first time consider Rank Success! ”
Nick - Passed Sergeants Selection Process First Time

" What really resonated with me on your workshop was the’ choice of attitude’ candidates were encouraged to embrace when approaching a promotional board. Getting this element right is essential to performing well on the day of the race. Self belief and a desire to come first by being the best you can be on the day; directly translated to me through your workshop as putting in lots of effort, practise, repetition, preparation, preparation and PREPARATION!! This point could not be emphasised enough.
I enjoyed the mix of relevant subject matter and different ways to think about approaching the daunting prospect of a board. Your tips and tricks, strategies and models enabled me to develop my own style and improve on my delivery from the tool kit you provided. This foundation created confidence within and enabled me to deliver effectively on my board resulting in successfully achieving a good pass grade and subsequent promotion from sergeant to Inspector. I would thoroughly recommend your workshop to anybody seriously preparing for a promotional board or looking to improve their chances of success in an interview of any kind. Thanks very much Steve, a real inspiration. ”
Earl - Passed Inspectors Board

" I first worked with Steve in 2011 when I attended a promotion masterclass in preparation for my Inspector's promotion process and I'm delighted that I was successful at the first attempt. At that time Steve really helped me to focus on how I best needed to prepare for the process and present my evidence to the interview board.
With that in mind I got back in touch with Steve again in 2016 as I was now planning for a superintendent promotion process, knowing that the advice, guidance and knowledge Steve had given me years prior stood me in good stead to be successful.
I think what was probably my greatest concern was in translating the work I was doing and had done at my current rank into the application form against the PPF behaviours. As I desperately didn't want to fall at the first hurdle. I think that is often difficult trying to shoehorn your evidence into promotion applications and get it wrong. I wanted to make sure that I put my right evidence in the right place. Therefore I purchased Steve's inspector application promotion guide to assist me, which I found really useful to see how evidence should be structured against the PPF and provide a detailed and evidenced response to the behaviours.
What I particularly liked was the way the guide laid out the different word count examples for example 250, 300 and 500 words and how to answer force specific questions around personal statements of what I would bring to the rank. The application form guide didn't just help me for the application form but also helped to structure my interview examples and how best to create a clear vision for what I would demonstrate and achieve in the next rank.
I am grateful to Steve's assistance, which has been set out over a period of six years and I thoroughly recommend the inspectors application guide for those seeking promotion not just to Inspector. The guide helped me broaden my thinking and awareness for the higher rank of superintendent and I feel it would be equally of use to those applying for Chief Inspector and Superintendent because I have yet to see anything which gives candidates this clear advice and guidance in order to best structure their evidence to be successful in a police promotion process. "
Jon - Superintendent

" Steve, I hope you’re well. I was successful in getting through my PS to Insp board at the first attempt in December. In fact I scored maximum marks of 20/20 in my presentation/board so it couldn’t have really gone any better!
I came to your masterclass with a friend Adam, and he also got through! I just wanted to thank you for your input on the day. It focused me on what the process was really about…..my leadership…..and although it sounds silly now, I had almost forgotten that in my initial prep!
A lot of very talented colleagues unfortunately didn’t get through. Having spoken to them afterwards about what went wrong, I think they focused far too much on the processes they had created but didn’t link it back to how they had actually been able to successfully implement those systems to have legacy with staff through their leadership skills.
I completely changed my preparation and approach following the Masterclass in Birmingham with you and it clearly worked. Anyway, thanks again for the service you provided and I will be sure to recommend you to my colleagues in my force. Best of luck in the future. ”
Jamie - Passed Inspectors Selection Process

" I am confident and competent operationally, but nothing in policing has taught me about police promotion interviews or what the role of Sergeant actually is. Naively, without Steve's one to one I would have gone to my board without knowing these things. However with Steve's help there was no surprises in the interview and I was able to show with confidence that I absolutely knew what is expected of a Sergeant. These two key elements undoubtedly helped me pass my board at the first attempt. ”
Jon - Passed Sergeants Selection Process First Time

" I just wanted to say a big thank you for your help, support and advice during my recent Sgt to Inspector process which I successfully passed – on my first attempt!
I was fortunate to attend your one day workshop which provided me with ideas to focus my preparation and structures for my interview board. I have no doubt that without your input I would have missed key points that I needed to cover and wasted a lot of time.
I would thoroughly recommend anyone thinking of taking a promotion board to attend either one of your workshops. Your advice and guidance will give applicants the confidence that they are on the right track and scoring every possible point to ensure a successful outcome during this highly competitive process. ”
Gaynor - Passed Inspectors Selection Process

" It was a long road and your workshop definitely put me on the right track. I have recommended several others. I believe one of them, a Sergeant travelled some miles to attend your course and was successful in his promotion also to Inspector. Both of us said that it really gave us the tools we needed, particularly for the promotion interviews. Thank you. ”
Susanne - Passed Sergeants Promotion Board

" An excellent well structured workshop enabled me to put the entire promotion process into perspective. Being properly prepared when I walked in the door to my board I felt confident and most importantly ready. Steve's positivity really rubbed off and after being qualified for seven years I was successful in promotion to Inspector with a neighbouring force. I can’t recommend Rank Success enough, thank you. ”
Rob - Passed Inspectors Selection Process

" I just wanted to drop you a line to let you know that after completing an online assessment, an interview, a presentation and a briefing exercise, I have made the grade for promotion and am waiting for my posting date! This is in no small part down to your inspiring lecture which gave me the drive and determination to succeed so thank you. Until next time for Inspectors! ”
James - Passed Sergeants Promotion Board first time

" Thanks so much for your invaluable guidance on my application form. Your online guides and workshop prepared me both in respect of the content and in terms of my confidence. Your advice gave me focus and helped me pass my Governor's board ”
Jo - Passed Inspectors Promotion Board (First attempt)

" I personally found the workshop incredibly inspirational...I would definitely recommend this to all seeking promotion or even just to re-energise officers, BRILLIANT briefing. ”
Brian - Passed Sergeants Promotion Board

" The downloadable guides were a good starting block and certainly confirmed to me I was on the right track. You always get conflicting and various advice from others, so it was nice to see structured, useful advice in one guide.

The masterclass was, for me, the catalyst to get going with preparations - but crucially it was an enormous boost to my confidence. I came away with a 'can do' attitude despite a recently unsuccessful process. It's not the golden ticket to success - it's the starting gun! ”
Tim - Passed Inspectors Selection Process

" Hi Steve, I finally passed my Inspectors promotion board thanks to you. I'm grateful for your encouragement, help and support. I achieved very high marks on my presentation, situational judgement test and my interview. I had a good understanding of what was required, but just needed a more structured approach in delivering my answers.

The 'Masterclass' and the 'Interview Success' download greatly assisted me with all aspects of the assessment. Our one to one conversations filled me with confidence and positive thinking. I also purchased 'The Essential Managers Leadership' book as recommended, which helped with some of the forward facing questions. I'm glad I came to you and will certainly recommend you to my colleagues and friends. Tim also passed the process. ”
Scott (Sergeant) - Passed Inspectors Selection Process

" I found the workshop very useful indeed. Steve is an inspiration ”
Eddie - Passed Sergeants Promotion Board

Steve…Thanks for your support! I passed!!
Gerri - Passed Inspectors Promotion Board

" Having previously been unsuccessful at the interview stage, I was starting to perceive it as an insurmountable problem. The workshop gave me a shake and made me realise that in order to perform in interview, I had to invest time in my preparation. It helped to energise and structure my preparation in a way I was unlikely to have come to myself, undoubtedly contributing to my eventual success.”
Steve - Newly Promoted Sergeant

" Hi Steve. I was successful. Thanks! ”
Chris - Passed Inspectors Selection Process

" Steve, I just wanted to say a HUGE thank you. I heard today I have successfully earned a place on the fast-track PC-Inspector scheme. This was wholly due to me working smarter not harder thanks to the combination of your extremely helpful and informative application guides, your blogs and your excellent promotion workshop. They helped me clarify what was actually required of me for each rank, develop my presentation skills (an area of significant dread but even less than the crippling fear of having nothing to say at my interviews!) and I am very happy to report success even though this is my first time applying!

I will no doubt use your materials and approach again during my challenging programme to achieve promotion to Inspector. I particularly enjoyed your recent perseverance blog. I have been there when attempting to progress laterally. Your comments and positive outlook really resonated with me and I am confident they will help colleagues facing challenges of re-applying "

Meri - passed PC to Inspector fast track interview first attempt

" Thank you for the excellent package and material. I approached Rank Success on peer recommendation from others who had been successful after contacting you. I followed the guidance and I passed the Sgt’s booklet first time, the interview board first time and am now a DS in a new department. Better still, I feel I am a better officer, with much more clarity around my own views, my supervisory role and the organisation as a result of my learning. I strongly recommend Rank Success.”
Chris - Newly Promoted Sergeant (First Attempt)

" Hi Steve. I passed everything thanks to your help. I am now awaiting promotion. Thanks! ”
Scott - Passed Inspectors Selection Process

" Open your eyes, pin back your ears and take in everything he talks about! I left focused, with a clear direction and a plan in my head. Steve inspires, enthuses and motivates. When the next rank beckons, there is only one person to whom I will go.”
Alex - Detective Constable. Passed Sergeants Promotion Board.

" Hi Steve, I thought I’d send you a quick email to let you know I found out on Friday that I’d passed the MPS Inspector promotion process! I’m so happy! Thank you very much for your input during the workshop. It certainly gave me a strong steer as to how to structure my answers during the board. Thank you once again. "
Alex - Passed Inspectors’ selection process ”

“ Steve, Passed my inspectors board this week. Many thanks for the tips and advice.”
Ben - Passed Inspector Selection Process First Time

" Dear Steve, Just writing to say thank you for your help. It all paid off and I achieved my promotion. I have recommended the guide to colleagues as a must have tool for interview prep. "
Katherine, New Sergeant

" What struck me about your guidance was it opened my eyes to a way of being a leader based on knowing myself and never losing sight of what really counts…It awakened a self confidence, in being able to espouse and require high levels of professionalism by all those around me; and crucially from myself. It gave me belief. Thank you "
Grant - Passed Inspectors Promotion Board (First attempt)

" I spoke to you last year when I was having problems passing my sergeants interview. I can confirm that I have now been successful and I will soon be a sergeant at the training school. Many thanks for all your help, I don't believe I would have passed without your help and guidance."
Matt, Passed Sergeants selection process

" Had my Inspector interview today, hard work and understanding the process.. contributed to the most comfortable smooth interview I have ever had. Great product, I must have read it through at least 5 times and each time picked up something extra... By far the best advice for me was saying the examples out loud instead of just reading them, that alone got me through this."
Ewan - Passed Inspectors Promotion Board

" Just a quick note to say, thanks to your guide I was successful."
Alan, New Sergeant

" Just to let you know I have been successful this time in the Inspector’s process. The material on your website and your presentation I attended were vital for my preparation and gave me a lot more depth to the material I had to talk about. The presentation also gave me an understanding of how to deliver in the interview which gave me confidence on the day. Your phrase "give a response not an answer" is very true. Thanks for your help."
Mike - Passed Inspectors Promotion Board

" Just to let you know with your product and a lot of hard work… I have been promoted to Sergeant. I used your guide to change my mind set which assisted greatly. Thanks very much"
Shane, New Sergeant

" Take this advice seriously. I have been seriously impressed with the support, tips and advice provided by Steve at Rank Success.
After FOUR previous attempts at promotion to Inspector over 8-years this was a final attempt.
Steve provided a very positive and complimentary outlook on preparation and progress. The state of mind is vital!!! I thoroughly recommend one-to-one assistance through Skype or personally. The tips and encouragement are invaluable.
Use of the online booklets and coaching sessions are a must for any prospective candidate who wants to be in with a chance of success. The title says it all Rank Success!!!
On my 5th attempt I passed my promotion process "
David - Promoted to Detective Inspector

" I approached Steve because I had been unsuccessful in a previous promotion process and wanted to give myself the best opportunity to pass. He quickly demystified the interview process, helping me to understand how to structure my interview, understanding that the whole process is extremely competitive. The result was ' I was successful in the force interview board and offered a promotion opportunity a few weeks later!’ One thing I liked was the one 2 one mentoring, it gave me the inspiration to really improve my game. I found the experience enlightening, if only I had known about this mentoring before! The feedback from my interview was that I performed very well. I have recommended Steve to colleagues who were unsuccessful in the process to help them with their future development. "
Lee, T/Sgt, passed Sergeants Promotion board

“ I found Steve’s dynamic and positive delivery a real boost to my preparation. The mix of interview tips and motivational clips meant that I left the master-class ready for my Inspectors interview. Just six days later I was interviewed and passed it. By following Steve’s preparation tips I was calm and ready to tell the panel why I should be promoted. I have no doubt that this was the difference between passing and failing ”
Julian - Passed Inspectors Promotion Board

" I was successful at my first attempt. I found the workshop helped me in respect of understanding the core areas that I needed to focus on, it provided good positive and constructive insight and… the point about massive preparation. Specifically for me I found the memory aide around the role of Sergeant an excellent way of linking into all my evidence and gave me a well defined way of presenting them. I genuinely could not fault any area of the course, with the content provided by Steve I was much better equipped. ”
Peter, PC, passed Sergeants Promotion board first attempt

“ Just to let you know I passed my board and I am in a pool awaiting an inspector post. Thanks for you help, that initial 2 hours really kickstarted a positive mindset and determination to perform… the Superintendent has said I did really well.… Thanks again ”
Howard - Passed Inspectors Selection Process

" The workshop helped to crystallise how much work I needed to do to prep. I specifically remember the points that I need to aim to be the best instead of having a ‘just getting through’ mindset and comparison to how much I had to prep for passing the exam….this really helped me get into the right gear. ”
Farhat, DC, passed Sergeants Promotion board

Hi Steve. Just thought I’d drop you a quick e mail to say I passed the Inspectors process. Thanks for everything, I’m delighted”
Mark - Passed Inspectors promotion board - first time

" I had paid for and attended another independent 1-2-1 workshop…on reflection Rank Success has a more professional approach and is easy to follow. I found some of the quotes ‘stuck’ and the presenter very easy to listen to and confident. He gave me confidence. I thought the presentation and delivery was good…it was far more than I expected to receive!! ”
Russ, A/Sgt, passed Sergeants Promotion board

" Hi Steve …a weight off my mind…I was over two years temporary!
I found the interview guide really useful, I already had the knowledge but needed a structure to hang it from. You gave me a nice simple focus, helped me utilise a conversational style without veering too far from the subject.
I have recommended your products to others looking for promotion."
Rich, Passed Inspectors Promotion board

" The workshop made it very clear how much preparation was required and how best to structure that preparation. There were some excellent pointers on things that needed brushing up on - for instance - briefing and decision making that I may not have thought to look at….it gave me the focus and direction for my preparation. It is probably the most useful presentation I have ever had and was certainly the best in terms of actual presentation. I would recommend it to anyone seeking promotion. ”
Simon, passed Sergeants Promotion board

“ As police officers we like some direction and a kick up the proverbial to get going. This was exactly what I needed to get my head around what I should be planning, looking at, and thinking. The content was set at the right pace, the sessions were long enough, and the input was exactly what I needed...invaluable ”
Mark, Sergeant - passed Inspectors board first attempt

" The workshop reinforced a belief that I had that I should be aiming to be number 1, not number 300 and to try and smash the board rather than stumble across the line. what worked was the emphasis on prepping for the interview, the guidance and tips for revising. ”
Mark, Constable, passed Sergeant’s Promotion board

“ I found it very helpful and drew on all of it in my preparation. In particular was the emphasis on developing a structure to my answers…. this helped me sort my evidence into drop down boxes in my head which were easy to refer to. I will definitely recommend Rank Success to future promotion candidates. ”
Joe, Sergeant - passed Inspectors board first attempt

" The workshop helped me to focus my thoughts. It identified areas in which I needed to improve for the board. It gave me direction and ideas. It was very thought provoking. I purchased the online digital guide following the workshop which helped reinforce what had been said and for me to digest in my own time. I found it especially useful for the aides surrounding responsibilities and those relating to decision making which I did use in the composure and rehearsal of my answers. ”
Eddie, passed Sergeants Promotion board

“ People generally don’t like public speaking or interviews. This support enabled me to manage and centre my thought processes and to understand the interview in a structured way. I felt this helped to even out and redress the power bias of the interview situation. ”
Paul, Detective Sergeant - passed Inspectors promotion board first attempt

“ Steve gave me practical guidance to help sell myself and demonstrate my skills, experiences, and competencies specifically for the role. I felt like I’d been on a week long residential course! I have no doubt this helped me realise my full potential at interview. ”
Samantha, Detective Sergeant - passed Inspector's promotion board first attempt

" I approached Steve after being unsuccessful in my first attempt at promotion. He came recommended from peers who had previously used his services. I purchased both guides which gave me a good grounding however I felt I needed further specific guidance surrounding the board so opted for a one to one session.
During the session with Steve we were able to focus on how to deliver answers during the board which was my biggest fear. Steve’s guidance gave me confidence to approach the board in the right way and he was able to tailor the session to meet my needs after a short discussion about what I was hoping to gain from the session. I was successful at my first board and my feedback was positive. I have already recommended Steve to others and will continue to do so. "
Jonathan, Passed Sergeant’s Promotion Board First Attempt

" I attended one of Steve's seminars on recommendation of several colleagues. I was really impressed. When it came to preparation for interview I had no hesitation in contacting Steve for a one to one coach/mentor session. Steve helped me understand what leadership and promotion actually means to me, to the community and the service. The result was that I achieved promotion to Detective Sergeant. I have a new unit and team and I’m really looking forward to it. I will be recommending Rank Success to colleagues ”
Trystan, DC, passed Sergeants Promotion board

“ I passed my interview with flying colours and had great feedback (from the interviewers) ”
Jon, Sergeant - passed Inspectors promotion board first attempt

" I found the workshop helpful, it gave me a different way of thinking. I realised that I couldn’t rely on delivering evidence in a robotic and systematic way. This was fortunate as the board was not like that at all and turned into more of a conversation for which I had answers prepared due to the Rank Success input. I also felt comfortable showing my personality and passion, which I might otherwise have kept back. "
James, A/Sgt, passed Sergeants Promotion board

“ (the workshop) ...really boosted my confidence... ”
Justin, Sergeant - passed Inspectors promotion board first attempt

" I approached Steve on recommendation from colleagues who could not speak highly enough of the input he provided. He helped me by providing an excellent structure to my board and preparation.
The result was a successful board and an immediate promotion. One thing I liked was the relevance and content of the material provided which made preparation easier. I found the whole experience with Steve totally worthwhile and I have to say his input was invaluable. I would highly recommend him to all colleagues aspiring to promotion ”
Greg, passed Sergeants Promotion board

“ I applied for a temporary detective Inspector post along with 20 highly qualified and experienced colleagues. This was a very competitive process but the preparation work I did as a result of our session resulted in me coming top and securing the position! The session helped me focus on the important parts of the interview and made sure I was prepared for anything I was asked. Thanks again. ”
Mike, Detective Sergeant - passed Inspector's promotion board first time

" Steve I simply cannot thank you enough; I have finally been promoted to the rank of Sergeant. I have been acting for many years mainly due to my apparent inability to pass a board. I failed two boards over the years, preparing for them in my own way and really just not getting it.
Via a telephone conversation with you and utilising your excellent guides, I managed to finally get my head around what it was all about and get in the right mindset. This time around I went into the board with relative confidence and actually bizarrely quite enjoyed the experience.
Getting promoted has been my aspiration for some time and I would not have achieved my goal without your help. I have recommended your services to numerous colleagues ”
Lee, A/Sgt, passed Sergeants Promotion board

" I cannot measure it, but compared to a previous unsuccessful interview, I felt completely different and more relaxed. One main part was your assistance with my promotion application booklet, for me it was a godsend and I have to say your input on this was first class.
For me it was worth every penny and I have already recommended you to a few people who have approached me wanting to know the golden secret to my success on this occasion. The answer will be yourself/your company. ”
Steve, A/Detective Inspector - passed Inspector's promotion board

Hi Steve,
Yet another good news story, I passed my Sgts Board at my first attempt and just wanted to say a massive thank you. What stuck in my mind was some key points which I took in with me, professional conversation, delivering stories and most definitely the mnemonic! Thanks again. "
Pete, Passed Sergeants Promotion board first time)

" In a one hour conversation and with your excellent guides, I managed to finally understand what it was all about. I would not have been able to achieve my goal without your help. I have already recommended you to numerous colleagues ”
Tim, Passed Sergeants Promotion board)

" I thought the booklet download was very good and the two hour 1-2-1 was for me invaluable and I feel the difference between passing and failing. In my board I used the mnemonics and vitally STRUCTURE STRUCTURE STRUCTURE.
The biggest boost I felt as I walked through the door was confidence in my preparation. This allowed me to relax relatively given the situation. As I relaxed I felt my answers flowed and I was able to display passion and commitment. I am overjoyed at having attained the rank of Inspector but fully appreciate that there is some hard work ahead and there is no room to take your foot off the pedal. Thank you once again, it made the difference. ”
David, Passed Inspectors Promotion board

" Steve, passed this time! I used mnemonics to break down sections. It also gave me ideas over the process structure and in interview "
Spencer, Passed Sergeants Promotion board)

" Hi Steve, Just to let you know that I was successful this time. I loved the mnemonic! It definitely kept me focused and structured for the ‘How are you going to get the best from your team and manage performance, etc, etc question. "
Yvonne, Passed Sergeant’s Promotion Board - 3rd attempt

" I know your promotion guides are for Sergeant & Inspector promotions, but I downloaded and used a fair amount for my Chief Inspector’s board, especially round preparation, mindset, exercise, structure, well everything basically. Having previously failed I nailed this one. Got a 3rd pip now. Thank you mate, great guide. ”
Richard (Passed Chief Inspectors Promotion Board)

“ What I found refreshing was your obvious passion for the whole process. The support really helped when preparing for my promotion and I managed to get through my promotion board at my first attempt. Many thanks. ”
John, Acting Sergeant - passed Sgt interview first attempt

" Steve I have just found out that I was that I was successful in the inspector process.
The one day master class that I attended in August was key to my success. It allowed me the opportunity to evaluate where I was on the promotion journey, the realisation of what work was needed and the tools to allow me to get there.
Without doubt money well invested. Even the seating position was a great tip. I will be recommending your services to others undergoing the current sergeant process. Finally, coming away from the interview I was confident of my prep and delivery which I learned through your class - self belief. Thank you. "
Niall (Successful in the Inspector process)

" Steve’s workshop cut through the fog, helped me focus on the important areas, explained the structure of the interview, and provided a clear direction for my preparation. I came away feeling inspired, confident about what to expect, and full of self belief and drive to succeed ”
Andy, Detective Constable - passed Sgt board 1st attempt

" The session was highly valuable to widen my knowledge in leadership and how to perform in promotion boards. Acronyms and other memory methods assisted my learning and retention of information "
Joanne, A/Detective Sergeant - passed Sgt board first time

" My first attempt at a promotion board & I was inundated with conflicting advice. This one workshop with Steve gave me answers and a toolkit for success. All aspects of the preparation were covered, leaving me prepared and confident on the day. ”
Steve, Detective Constable - passed Sgt interview 1st time

“ The promotion process was not a journey I particularly enjoyed. I knew I was good enough for the rank (I had been doing it for 3 years as a temp!) but cracking that promotion interview was just something I couldn’t seem to do. I then decided to try a different approach.
From the first time I sat down with Steve, I started to feel confident I would be able to get through this process. From the very first session, Steve’s enthusiasm was clear to see, he very quickly managed to unjumble the chaos and confusion in my head and he created a calm thought process.
I’m still not sure how he managed to do it, but he just started to talk about tool kits and structure and before I knew it I was really started to see the light! Steve’s approach was just what I needed; I was able to create structures for answering anything the board wanted to throw at me.
Steve’s style leaves nothing to chance; he even gives you top tips about what to do the day before and the day of the board. Steve is very passionate about helping people through the promotion process, he won’t sit the board for you (I asked!!) but he will give you everything you need (and more) to make sure you have the best chance of passing. I would highly recommend him.
As for me, over 120 people applied for 12 Inspector jobs a few months ago. I passed with flying colours! Thanks Steve. "
Mike - T/Detective Inspector Passed Inspectors Promotion Board

" The professionalism and emphasis put on the need for me to create the right impression during my forthcoming interview. I left thinking that I now have a structure and confidence to go and deliver. I recently received the results of my promotion board and can confirm I was successful. ”
Mark, Patrol Constable - passed Sgt board first time

" I passed my Sgt to Insp interview at the first attempt.
I genuinely feel that I wouldn't have done so without the downloaded interview guide. Initially I found the preparation overwhelming, not knowing where to start. After downloading the interview guide it gave me a place to start, helped me to focus, calmed the anxiety and allowed me to concentrate and not worry about the competition.
The assistance and suggestions provided within the scoring matrix assisted me in formulating answers for the competencies being marked. They helped me to formulate my own answers to the best of my ability and the repetitive practice as suggested gave me the confidence before my interview. I prepared answers to all the questions that could have been asked of me. As result I conducted my interview calmly and confidently, providing succinct, proficient, prepared answers to the questions. After my success I was given very good feedback from the interview board.
I would recommend the interview guide to anyone wanting to interview to the best of their ability. "
Ed, Passed Inspectors Promotion Board - First Time

" I received several recommendations about Rank Success from friends and colleagues who had been successful in recent Inspectors processes. Having narrowly missed out on a paper sift the previous year I thought I would explore the options. I purchased the application and interview guides and found that they resonated with me.
I then went on the one day course presented by Steve which gave me a really positive mindset going forward into the process. Having successfully navigated the booklet process I invested in one to one support from Steve to focus on my promotion board. The two sessions I had were invaluable in focusing my knowledge and presentation style for the board.
I walked into the interview feeling the most confident and prepared I had ever felt for any interview process in my life. I was successful on my first board and have been promoted to Detective Sergeant...achieving a life long goal. It made all the difference and I will be calling Steve again when I go for Inspectors promotion ”
Jon, A/Sergeant - passed Sgt interview first time

" Steve focused my attention more on the interview, how I was going to present myself and how to have a positive impact on the panel. I had been given a lot of information from many people wanting to help but this had just overwhelmed me. Steve provided literature on the role of the sergeant and other useful documents such as a checklist. This really assisted with my preparation and I felt more positive after as I had less to read and it gave me better direction.
Steve made me realise that it was not as daunting as I had made out and that they just wanted to see the real me. He made me realise and believe that I was worthy of the role of sergeant and that I could perform the role as well as if not better than other candidates!!! Before meeting Steve I was considering pulling out of the promotion board as I was unsure if I was ready for the job and also I thought I did not have enough time to prepare. After leaving Steve I realised how much I wanted the promotion and he gave me the confidence to conduct the interview and gave me a positive attitude. I went away thinking that I had plenty of time to prepare and that I would be ready in time which was a very different attitude than when I had first met him!!! ”
Dominique, A/Sergeant - passed Sgt interview first time

" I approached Steve after a colleague recommended Rank Success to me. After four unsuccessful interviews I knew I needed to take positive steps towards getting promoted.
I attended one of Steve’s Master classes and found it invaluable. It brought into focus for me that there are no shortcuts to this and that if I REALLY wanted it, it would mean simply knuckling down and becoming an expert on me as an individual and as a leader and what the role means to me.
Through Steve’s guidance I was able to structure the approach I took to my preparation, and at my next interview I was successful! I highly recommend Rank Success. "
Rachel, Passed Sergeant’s Promotion Board

" I felt I had a much better knowledge after the session which reassured me that the rest of the preparation for my promotion interview was heading in the right direction. Your sessions enlightened me to the process of the interviews, which gave me the confidence to be myself and try to stand out from the crowd. ”
Ed, Detective Constable - passed Sgt board first time

“ Constructive guidance was provided on how to develop the evidence to a level which maximised its value within the interview, as well as assistance on how to prepare for the process in the medium and short term. The learning was delivered in an informal yet effective manner. ”
Roy, Detective Constable - passed Sgt interview first time

“ I just wanted to say thank you for your promotion seminar in November, it really helped me to focus. Despite the fact I was the only person in the room who had never done any acting, I've managed to pull it off - so thanks. ”
Tamzin, Constable - passed Sgt board first time

" Got the City Centre Skipper’s job! Thanks for your help.
The one-to-one session helped cut through the fog of fear, confusion and nerves and gave me clarity about what I had to do to succeed.
Your 'Guide to passing your Police promotion interview' was invaluable in clarifying my understanding of the mechanics of the interview and the mental processes required to pass. With some easily remembered 'Top Tips' and a structure to hang your preparation on, using it is a 'no-brainer' ”
Chris, Patrol Constable - passed Sgt promotion board

" I am currently on A/L but just called into the station to send a couple of thank-you emails, I am pleased to say that I passed the PC to Sergeant Promotion board. When we met, a couple of things changed for me about the way I viewed the boards. The most important and I'm certain it played a big part in the successful outcome, was what you said about 'going in there and believing you are the very best, aim to come first etc. ”
Mark, Patrol Constable - passed SGT board first time

" Hi Steve,
Hopefully, you will have a few referrals from me at both Insp & Sgt recently! So this is why Rank Success was so critical to my promotion:
It started off by enabling me to understand the difference between the roles. This sounds like a simple matter however despite the fact I had been doing it for years (Temporary Detective Inspector), how do I tell 3 strangers about what I do in the context of the competency based framework. What your e book started me thinking about was the critical gap in my knowledge - how to turn reality into the promotion process.
Secondly, having understood the process I was then able to use the guides to start my planning phase well before the force promotion selection process opened. This meant that come the fortnight submission deadline I was ahead & waiting with examples & evidence. This meant I could concentrate fully on the essential skills as my competency evidence was ready to go.
Finally the board...! The best aspect of the package was the one-to-one. it brought clarity where my head felt it was going to burst. Most importantly the method of recall & structure you showed me meant I was able to tell the board my evidence even though I thought I was just about to pass out!
I am sad to say that at the end of my board I actually found myself enjoying the process & that is down to the confidence I had in the method and delivery you showed me. I honestly don't know how you could approach the process without this model. "
Jon (D/Sgt - Promoted to Detective Inspector)

" Steve helped me understand the promotion process. I felt lost having failed at my first attempt but with Steve's positive, inspiring, coaching I was able to deeply reflect on what really made me a good leader and manager. This gave me the belief and the confidence to present my skills and experience effectively (and successfully) during the board.
In my previous interview I was tense, unsure and lacking confidence. Having worked with Steve I felt calm and confident and more importantly I felt prepared. The fees and guides were great value for money.
One of the things which was most value to me was helping me really sit back and think about the role of the Sergeant and discussion around the framework and mnemonics. Secondly to have someone where you can totally open up about your fears, concerns and perceived weaknesses and then come away feeling enthused positive and confident.
The one to ones I had with Steve gave me the clarity and focus I needed to be successful in a process which can often leave you feeling uncertain, stressed and struggling to decide how best to prepare and present yourself. Steve is professional, provides a confidential service, inspiring with pep talks and motivation.
Thank you Steve for helping me discover that 'light bulb' moment and to be the best I can be in such a competitive process "
Bryan - (Passed Sergeants Promotion Selection Process)

“ Steve helped me with interview preparation for a specialist role within the Police service. I approached Steve days before my interview and had a one to one. I had spent a long time learning about the role I was applying for, legislation around it and spending too much time worrying about what I didn’t know. Steve improved my confidence, identifying the strengths in my knowledge and taught me how I could put it across confidently to the interviewers.

Steve's approach was very relaxed, he is clearly passionate about passing on his knowledge and expertise to help you gain success and reach the objective. Steve explained best interview techniques and how to approach the interview with a clear fresh mind, things that I would have overlooked and hadn’t even considered, that proved to be very important. Steve is a very good communicator, I found myself wanting to listen more.

I was successful in my interview and scored considerably higher than the other applicants, Steve's knowledge and guidance helped without doubt. I felt confident before the interview and I felt confident after the interview! I intend to start preparing for the promotion process very soon, and I will most definitely go to Steve to assist me with this.

I would recommend his services to anyone looking for development within the Police. "

Ryan, Intelligence officer

“ The positive mindset you kept me in was very good for me. I will admit I was a bit skeptical about coaching/mentoring and I was not sure what to expect. You often corrected me from saying ' if' I pass to 'when' I pass, which had an impact psychologically on my preparation. I cannot measure it, but compared to a previous unsuccessful interview, I felt completely different and more relaxed. One main part was your assistance with my promotion application booklet, for me it was a godsend and I have to say your input on this was first class. The booklet process is now so tight that every word counts and your support may have been the difference in mine being successful or not!

Let's just say the 'lightbulb' came on when you started giving examples. You should not underestimate how important that was to me. Talking/discussing as we did, made me feel I was not alone in the process. I used the mnemonic in interview and more in my presentation to help explain the contribution I would make as an Inspector. The advice on prep on the day - was also good, it kept my head very clear. Though I had attempted the Inspector promotion board twice before, you still come into the process on your own and scratching your head. To have someone wanting me to succeed and to discuss issues/topics was a huge benefit and actually made me feel you were keeping me on track. Where I was unsure (and normally would worry if I had it right or not), a quick chat put me back in the 'positive' thinking area again.There were a few times you did that.

For me it was worth every penny and I have already recommended you to a few people who have approached me wanting to know the golden secret to my success on this occasion. The answer will be yourself/your company. ”

Steve, A/Detective Inspector - passed Inspector's promotion board

“ I faced a three stage PC to Sergeant promotion process over an 11 week period, consisting of two paper sifts and an interview. The processes also included two different competency frameworks. I had examples demonstrating the behaviours but Steve patiently explained the structure expected in both paper applications enabling me to focus and polish to make the best of the raw material. Likewise for the interview: Steve explained the various models of answering questions in interview enabling me to prepare comprehensively and as it turned out, successfully. Thank you.

I didn't know anything about the promotion process so understanding exactly what I needed to cover was the most valuable. Steve tailors support to the individual, the process and the timescale which enabled me to develop a personal study schedule. Ready contact, suggestions for reading and background research as well as motivational input all helped in my successful preparation.

The experience of preparing is going to be different for each individual and their personal timescale, so Steve's adaptability and email accessibility and quick turn round was pivotal given the impact of my work schedule on the times when I was studying.

The most important thing I found about Steve's support is that he is always accessible and knowledgeable, responding and offering suggestions constructively. This enabled me to work towards the separate booklet applications and then an interview with the necessary confidence and skill-set appropriate to each part of the whole process."

Mary - passed promotion board first time

“ Thank you for helping me to prepare with my interview for ---- Police. (Specialist Unit) After our conversation I did so much prep I nearly went into meltdown! The interview was last Tuesday and I had really good feedback straight after the interview. The Detective Inspector said I had a really good board and they could tell I was prepared. I was offered a job which I have accepted!

Prior to meeting with you I had amassed a a wealth of information about relevant areas (RIPA, CPIA, Covert codes of practice etc) and I felt not only daunted but mildly panicked at the prospect of my impending presentation and interview.

The value you provided was in assisting me to thread together all of the areas I needed to work on and I felt you enabled me to contextualise my interview. For example aligning my skills and experience with the values, priorities and aims of ---- police and how that related to wider issues. I felt I was prepared to answer whatever was asked during the interview rather than feeling I had to have prepared answers. I had taken a somewhat 'scattergun' approach up to that point. The penny seemed to drop. Despite feeling ridiculously nervous, the preparation I had completed served me well. Thank you again. "

Katy (transferred between police forces)

“ My employers ---- police were cutting back severely on staffing levels and I had to compete against numerous colleagues for my own job. I knew I could do the job but was frustrated at the number of hoops I would apparently need to jump through in what appeared to me to be a complicated process. I contacted Steve who called at my home and went through the whole process with me. His encouragement from the outset was a boost to my confidence and well being during what was a very stressful time.

Steve assisted me in portraying my skills and experience to my best advantage, explaining what my employers were likely to require. He guided me in selecting the best examples from my evidence to put forward. (I was surprised that I could include examples that were not 'work based' and I was able to use evidence from a role I was performing outside of the police service). Steve made it seem simple and by the time we had finished, my personal confidence and the confidence I had in my application had grown.

I was subsequently delighted to hear that of numerous applications mine was successful and I secured my job. I later received feedback that the panel had commented on the high standard of my application.

Terry (Police staff administrator)

Promotion Support: It WorksDon't just take my word for it...

Sergeant, Inspector, C.Inspector & More...

Promotion Support: It Works
Don't just take my word for it...