New chiefs often step into their new role inadequately prepared for the challenges ahead. Police chiefs need an array of tools to help them succeed. A major part of achieving this success involves sidestepping the more common pitfalls into which many new chiefs stumble. The following list, in no particular order of importance, identifies the top 10 most common errors police chiefs commit that may threaten their tenure, as passed on by experienced mentor chiefs. Armed with this knowledge, new and experienced chiefs alike may be more likely to enjoy long and successful careers.