All CBP employees must maintain high standards of honesty, integrity, and character to gain and maintain the trust of the public. How will you exude this commitment in every interaction with the public?
Customs and Border Protection prioritizes integrity and character when making hiring decisions. They've published an 'Integrity and Personal Accountability Strategy' for all employees. In the forward from the Commissioner, R. Gil Kerlikowske, he states, 'Integrity, a core value of U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the cornerstone upon which we build the foundation of public trust and confidence that enables us to perform our mission. The personal embodiment of the core value of integrity reflects our commitment to professionalism and excellence in law enforcement. Personal integrity is a commitment that each of us makes to doing the right things, the right way, at the right time, including the reporting of inappropriate, corrupt, or criminal actions when observed.'
Take some time to think about the tangible ways that you will exude honesty, integrity, and character during your career, using information from the Integrity and Personal Accountability Strategy, and using similar language to the CBP.
"I understand that less than three-tenths of a percent of CBP agents are found to violate this critical code of conduct. These instances include crimes such as corruption, bribery, domestic violence, and driving under the influence. To exude integrity, to earn and keep the trust of the public, I will always behave in a way that is honest, fair, and right. Even the smallest delinquency is unacceptable. I live a clean lifestyle, which includes refraining even from alcohol. I was raised to do what is right, even when nobody is looking. Rest assured, I would keep myself on the straight and narrow while also holding my fellow teammates accountable."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I believe that when dealing with the public, one must show complete professionalism, honesty, and transparency. I believe that those actions will encourage positive interactions with the public.
In my current employment, I treat the public with utmost respect and professionalism. I believe that my approach to the public has benefitted myself and my department by instilling a sense of trust.
One scenario that comes to mind is when me and my partner who recently completed their field training stopped at the house of a local resident who was handicapped. My partner and I observed that the resident was having a hard time getting up the stairs. We assisted the resident in getting up the stairs and the resident expressed their gratitude. The next day I came into work, I was congratulated by my supervisor and the Chief of police. The Chief advised that the resident made a phone call to him to express their positive interaction with myself and my partner.
Cindy's Feedback
Outstanding. This STAR really brings your experience to life and is an extremely persuasive answer.
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