The first is the failure to choose conflicts carefully. The wise executive will carefully analyze conflicts as they arise to ascertain whether or not involvement is necessary. The second is the failure to keep the boss informed. The boss should be provided with too much information rather than too little. The failure to understand the organization can lead to dismissal because of the lack of recognition of the informal organization present in the department. The fourth factor is the failure to understand the position of police chief; not having the necessary skills or qualities to become a successful chief executive. The fifth factor is the failure to apply good change management techniques, such as eliciting input from those employees that will be affected by changes. The failure to maintain good press relations is the sixth factor. The police executive should take a stance of aggressively working with the news media, displaying the department in a favorable light and sharing in the positive outcome that such exposure will generate in the community. Finally, the failure to deal effectively with pressure groups can lead to dismissal. The astute police manager will listen very carefully when representatives from various minority and pressure groups seek his attention. 2 notes.