How would you maintain professional boundaries if an inmate started to befriend you or ask for favors?

"If I, or any on my team, get personally involved with an inmate, they're making a situation worse, and that hurts the team. I don't want to be part of the problem, I want to be part of the solution. So I'd make a practice of making sure my boundaries are clearly established with all our inmates from day one. Once everyone knows it, it's a line that won't be crossed."

There's a power difference between an inmate and any employee of the Department of Corrections. Inmates may attempt to manipulate and take advantage of an authentic and caring perspective. Forming a personal relationship with an inmate can be illegal, inappropriate, and often dangerous. In some scenarios, these evolve into intimate relationships, where favors are traded. This is always a concern, and the interviewer is evaluating where you stand and is trying to assess your professionalism and code of conduct in this regard.

In your answer, communicate that your professional conduct is in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Department of Corrections, and follows your own code of ethics as well. You want your answer to be consistent with adhering to rules, following protocol, and abiding by all safety guidelines.

It's the expectation that an employee of the Department of Corrections remains alert and swiftly responds to any sign of professional boundary crossing or violation. This includes reporting inappropriate behavior.

"Starting a relationship with an inmate is dangerous and could result in termination. I wouldn't want to let down my team. Instead of befriending an inmate I would follow the rules and make a habit of not crossing that boundary."

What do you consider the toughest aspect of this job?

"I imagine the long hours and at times being understaffed is likely the toughest part of the job. I think for anyone after being on their feet for more than ten hours, things can get tough. I imagine that during tight shifts changes too, sleep deprivation could be an issue as well, but as long as you're following protocol, sleep-deprived or not, just follow the steps and do your job and you should be fine."

They are interested to know how firmly you grasp what they expect of the person they'd recruit for this role. They are also curious about what struggles you've faced in previous positions, how you overcame them, and how well they align with the role you are interviewing for.

Give them an idea of what you perceive is the most challenging aspect of this position, and how you'd face such challenges. Identify similar challenges you've faced in the past, and how you overcame them, conveying that you'd be perfectly capable of facing those challenges today while on the job.

Avoid detailing challenges you've faced in other positions or situations that seem too unrelated or inappropriate. Avoid listing off challenges you haven't proved efficient at.

"I would have to say that the long hours and short staffing would be the most difficult. However, that can be overcome by following a strict schedule and getting accustomed to the long days."

Describe a situation when you were under pressure at work.

"That depends on what you consider pressure. I think every job has high pressured situations. It's work. Work is often hard, and often high pressured. There was one time..."

They are curious about what you consider a high-pressure environment. They are also assessing how capably you'd navigate the kinds of pressures you would face in this role.

Dealing with an emergency, working extra hours, or taking on additional responsibilities when short-staffed are common high-pressure situations one might face working in the department of corrections. Being able to manage your workload and manage your time with increasing flexibility is the test here. Take these points into consideration while formulating your answer.

Working under pressure requires confidently handling situations that are usually outside your control. How you deal with these situations, and your general attitude and self-discipline towards them, is what this question seeks to reveal.

"When I worked at ______, I worked in the online grocery pickup department. We would constantly be running back and forth between the building and cars in the parking lot. You had to fill the car with their groceries in about a minute to stay on time. It was fairly hectic and we were under pressure for most of the shift."

Are you afraid of any person or situation?

"I was afraid of my father growing up. I don't know if I've been afraid of anyone since I stopped being afraid of him. As far as situations, I'm afraid of any situation arising from me not putting my all in. That's why I am always aiming for 110%. I guess I have always been afraid of letting anyone on the team down."

The interviewer is hoping to determine how good a fit you would be. They are also again hoping to assess how well you cope with stress, and how honest you are, evaluating the consistency between how you answered the other question. Everyone has fears, and your interviewer is expecting you to have them as well. Admitting your fears, in whatever context, helps them understand your personality, and how your fears might be exploited in an environment such as theirs.

One might have fears of endangerment to themselves or their loved ones, and others have professional fears. Knowing yourself, and delivering your answer with confidence, in a way that reveals you have complete control and balance over your emotions is the aim. The goal is not to come across as fearless, but as having mastery over your own emotions.

Employers value self-awareness and honesty. If you have a fear for your own personal safety, use this as a motivation towards pursuing every option before resorting to physical contact, and portray a grounded and positive attitude when delivering your response. Try to focus on how you control your fear, and that it doesn't control you. Practice delivering your answer in a steady, confident voice. Use confident body language, make eye contact, and maintain good posture.

"I am afraid of letting my family, friends, and coworkers down. I strive to do the best I can at whatever I do and when I fail I try to learn the most I can from it."

How important is teamwork for you?

"Anyone who has been part of a team knows teamwork is everything. No one in here can it all on their own. Not in a place like this. So, I'd say that with those of us who are providing a public service, performing a job few have the steel to do, that of protecting and serving, we're answering a higher call, one we can't do on their own. In a place like this, it's more than a team. It's a family. Everyone needs to have each other's back. If a member of the team doesn't have everyone else's back, and they're in it for themselves, that's a problem."

This behavioral question will serve the interviewer in assessing your personality towards being more social and team-oriented versus being more introverted and going the route of the lone wolf. Extroverted and team-oriented personalities who exhibit independent leadership skills are more sought after traits for most positions in the department of corrections. They're seeking to evaluate how you'll fit in, depending on the position you are applying for.

Teamwork promotes a safer work environment and fosters camaraderie, which is integral to boosting morale. It can improve how effective any member of a team is in their job, and can strengthen communication. Teamwork can create a support system, emotionally and professionally, especially when their goals and values are aligned. They can help each other cope with the stresses of the job through emotional support, or something as simple as taking on a team members' duties while they take a mental health break.

Your aim is to convey an understanding of what it takes to do well in your role and the environment. Even if you have no relevant experience, revealing a firm grasp of the stress and dangers of this job is key here.

"Teamwork is vital for any workplace to succeed. I try to be a team player in any way I can and help whenever anyone else needs it."

We have rules for everything here. Tell me about the time you found it difficult to follow the rules.

"There have been plenty of occasions where I didn't understand the reasons for the rules, protocol, or systems in place. But I learned early on that whether I understand why those rules are in place is secondary to following them. Those rules are likely there for a good reason, most likely to protect those who follow them. If I have trouble with any set of rules, I will first fall in line, follow the rules, pay attention to their benefits, and if I still don't grasp why they are in place, I'll ask when the timing is right and I can do so with the utmost respect towards my superiors. I think people who have trouble following the rules or rebel against them either have problems with authority or think they can do better. But that's not me."

They are not only curious about your work style but also seeking to gauge your ethical integrity. They're not only curious what your relevant work experience is, but are keeping an eye out for any red flags that might reveal you to be more of a liability than an asset. Not following the rules in the department of corrections can present unnecessary dangers, and more work from filing reports to covering shifts. In order to enforce the rules, one must abide by the rules.

From procedural rules to safety protocols, every position in every company has rules and established systems to ensure things run smoothly, with as little rework as possible. Your aim is to stress your understanding of the value of rules in detention facilities, and that you'll abide by the orders of your superiors, regardless of whether you like them or not.

This working environment has been described by former employees as repetitive and routine. Expecting the same play-by-play, with little variation, day in and day out by adhering to a specific, monotonous scheduled routine is common at the department of corrections, depending on the position. It's been described by former employees as difficult to adhere to the rules at times, especially after a few years in service. Common rules which aren't typically adhered to are how many hours one works on a shift. This is usually due to a lack of adequate staff, which ironically leads to those putting in more hours burning out on the job faster. This can lead to further rule-bending, like neglecting to complete reports and daily logs of inmate behavior or other noteworthy occurrences. This sort of rule-bending can often lead to communication breakdowns, which can further endanger others on a team.

"Rules are there for a reason, and that is to maintain a safe and secure environment. Breaking rules is something I try my best not to do. There have been instances in the past where I didn't understand a rule so I politely asked my superior and got it figured out."

How would you handle the aggression and confrontation you are likely to face at this kind of job?

"It's part of the job, and as with any other part of the job, you do your job to the best of your ability. Aggression is part of the reason most inmates ended up where they are. So that behavior is to be expected, and you can't let it stress you out. In fact, learn from it. They didn't have it easy, and their anger was the attitude through which they approached their tough situation. But that didn't work out. Look at where that attitude got them. There's a lesson to be learned there. I have no control over how they see the world, but I have control over how I see it and over my attitude. So, do what you can to maintain the peace, to keep everyone safe, according to protocol, to ensure work runs as smoothly as possible."

Diffusing conflict situations before they turn violent is part of the job. Your interviewer needs to establish how skilled you are at diplomacy before such challenges result in physical contact. The examples you offer will help them determine how well-suited you are for this role.

Remain cool, collected, and pragmatic while delivering your answer. Offer insights on how you remain calm when facing conflict, or are being antagonized. Describe a situation where you implemented non-defensive communication tools to diffuse a volatile situation, especially when dealing with an obstinate or disruptive person. Ensure you would result in physical contact or violence as a last resort. Detail how you've handled similar situations, what the outcome was, and your takeaways. If you haven't dealt with this situation directly, put thought into how you'd handle it.

Avoid examples where you might come across as the antagonist, or reflect negatively on your character in any regard. In most instances, such adversity comes from a place of fear. Strategy, empathy, and objectivity are what you should aim to convey.

"I don't have much experience de-escalating violent situations however when I worked at _________, I did have some angry customers. When I got one I would remain calm and try to reason with them, usually by figuring out the problem and finding the best way to resolve it. I have pretty thick skin, and I don't use anger to fix my issues."

Have you ever worked in a stressful environment?

"When I toured in Iraq, it was stressful at times. But that's all part of the job. I was doing my part to help everybody to the best of my ability while following orders. Not everyone understands what you're there to do, and some think you're the enemy. I can't help what other people think, but I was there to help. So sure, stress was part of it."

The interviewer is assessing your perception of what a high-stress working environment looks like. They're curious about how well your perception aligns with the reality of the job. Interviewing, hiring, and training are expensive, and the time invested in hiring someone will relieve the pressures on those covering for the staff shortage. Hiring an individual who wasn't suited for the role could result in quick turnover, further burdening the rest of the team, and causing further issues for the work environment. In assessing your perception of what the job looks like, they'll hopefully be able to evaluate how well-suited you are for the role.

If you've worked for the department of corrections before, or in a similar role, spend time before the interview planning a professional and impartial answer based on your working experience. Exhibit your ability to step outside of your comfort zone and your ability to stay grounded while working under pressure. If you don't have relevant work experience, put in the time to research what the job looks like in a way that applies to the question. Then take your example of working in a high-stress environment and examine how you can correlate the two in a translatable way.

The aim here is not only to relay your relevant experience to the position you are competing for but also to exhibit your ability to remain cool and collected under pressure. Exhibiting a clear comprehension of what the job environment looks like while displaying a clear handle on governing your stress levels with emotional maturity is the goal here.

"Back when I worked at _______, there was a day when a lot of employees called out. My manager had to take most of the workers in my department and send them across the store to help others. He left me in charge of the department and I made sure all customers got their groceries on time and that the department remained clean and sorted. It was stressful but I got through it."

Share an example of when you went above and beyond the "call of duty".

"Our unit had been deployed for an operation, and I volunteered to be among a skeleton crew of three to watch our ten detainees before we transferred them. We did our job and carried on. But this is part of helping the team. Sometimes it's up to you when your number comes up, and I'm not one to wait around for them to call me out. I'd prefer to just step up and do it. Whatever it takes."

They are seeking to assess whether you are dependable based on what you consider above and beyond. They're also curious whether you can meet the demands of the job. Because of the nature of most jobs in the department of corrections, going above and beyond the call of duty consistently is an unspoken job requirement. They're also curious whether you've grasped this through your prior knowledge of the posted job.

Perform your research in advance. Gain a full picture of what the job looks like, as well as the most common situations where you'll be expected to go above and beyond the call of duty. Once you clearly understand what that looks like, then find a relevant example from your working experience that translates to what they will probably expect of you in this role.

Many of the positions at the department of corrections require physical strength and stamina. This work environment has one of the highest rates of injuries and illnesses, which frequently leads to staffing issues. The work hours tend to be long and demanding, often spent on one's feet for nearly a whole shift. They're often expected to work longer than normal shifts, often working with no more than a skeleton crew. Despite these work conditions, they are looking to recruit those who exhibit sound judgment, strong interpersonal skills, physical strength, resourcefulness, self-discipline, strong leadership, and problem-solving skills.

"When I worked at ______, one of my coworkers had loaded up a car wrong and many of the items spilled. I wanted to make it right so I apologized to the customer and offered to get all brand-new items for them. I also was able to get them a discount on future purchases."

Give me an example of when you used your observational skills to resolve or prevent a problem.

"You always have to keep your eyes out. If you saw something, and you're not sure what you saw but have a feeling that prompts you to inspect, always listen to that. I had this detainee I was preparing to transfer to a facility, and it was just the way he was listing about. His eyes were floating everywhere in a way that he seemed like he was trying to look like he wasn't up to anything. That look of when you are overcompensating for not wanting to look suspicious. Well, I walked over and stood next to him for a minute and observed. I looked at his footprints and could see he was shuffling over towards a stack of supplies, so I walked over to those supplies and found a fellow officer's knife hidden there like they forgot it and someone hid it under something. It's always the little things you have to watch out for. You have to be on at all times."

Again, this question seeks to ascertain how your work experience correlates with what is expected of the role for which you're applying. They're also curious about how by-the-book and professional the course of action you took towards resolving or preventing a potential problem was.

Again, performing your research and correlating your example with the expectations of the role for which you are applying is essential. Using the STAR method, describe the Situation you encountered in your example, the Task at hand, the Action you took, and the overall Result.

A position as a correctional officer typically doesn't often require strong analytical skills or outside-of-the-box thinking. However, they advertise high attention to detail and strong organization skills as job requirements. Working in the Department of Corrections requires high-level attention to detail and constant awareness of one's surroundings. This includes the ability to identify suspicious behavior or anything out of the norm of the routine established by adhering to the rules.

"When I worked at __________, I found an issue with one of the promotional codes we used at the time. I sent a message to my superiors and with the help of the IT department, it was fixed before very many customers reported the issue."

How would you rate your ability to stay calm when being provoked?

"I separate myself emotionally from those who attempt to provoke me. Those are their emotions making a display, not mine. Whatever they are shouting or throwing or doing has nothing to do with me except being the object of their projection. So I remain rock steady, centered in the immovable spot. It's hard for anyone to get a rise out of me. Like Sun Tzu says in The Art of War, ''It is the unemotional, reserved, calm, detached warrior who wins, not the hothead seeking vengeance and not the ambitious seeker of fortune.'"

Working at the Department of Corrections is being immersed in an often high-stressed environment. This is in addition to facing stressful situations on the job, putting your mental flexibility to the test. What the interviewer is attempting to gauge is your ability to handle such situations consistently with full commitment to adhering to the rules and practices the department dictates. To determine your fit is to determine your ability to persevere through such situations without compromising your dedication to the safety of yourself, the inmates, or your coworkers.

Offer a recent high-stress situation that is comparable to what you imagine you'd face in this environment. This will convey your understanding of what is expected of you in this role. Next, detail how you've managed similar stressful situations, logistically and emotionally.

Some might listen to music to help emotionally distance themselves from a stressful situation, striking a balance between productivity and maintaining a positive experience. Others might take frequent breaks to read poetry or meditate. Some might bounce a tennis ball against a wall. Think about all of your stress-relieving tips and tricks which allow you to maintain your focus and keep the stress at bay. It's fine to have stress as long as the stress doesn't have you. Emotional balance is what you should aim to convey with your answer.

"I would have to give myself an 8/10 when confronted by a stressful situation. I'm able to stay calm and just keep working after the issue has been resolved."

Are you able to regulate your emotions to do your job effectively?

"I have no issues regulating my emotions to do my job. I am very literal and communicate well when necessary. If things ever get to me, I'll request a break, when it works for the team for me to do so, and take a few minutes to decompress. But it takes quite a lot for me to even get there. I like to think of myself in full control of my emotions 99.9% of the time."

How you adapt to change will inform them of how you perform in a high-stress work environment, and if you can stay flexible when faced with unique challenges. Your interviewer wants to know if you can face these challenges with emotional maturity, confidence, and poise, or whether your reactions would be detrimental to the department, or the situation.

They'll want to hear an example of when you have put your skills into action in a comparable role. Use the STAR method to help you answer successfully. This means you will want to provide a situation, your task in that situation, the action you took, and the results provided by your course of action. Try to keep your answer relevant to the role for which you are applying, and ultimately convey a unique ability to stay cool and collected, even in the most stressful situations.

In the Department of Corrections, you'll be in a high-stress, highly demanding role where you will encounter the demands of many unpredictable and often dangerous personalities. This will require your constant flexibility and an ability to remain calm, keeping your safety and the safety of others as a priority.

"Yes, I keep a tight grip on my emotions and when at work I don't show them no matter how I feel. When I get home I try to relax to alleviate any stress from the day and focus on starting fresh the next day."

What are your salary expectations?

"I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year plus a potential 20% annual bonus. Last year, my earnings were $52,000 and I would like to stay in the same range or higher."

This question is a test to see how realistic your expectations are for the position you are applying for. Your expectations may be unrealistic, or perhaps they sell you short. Either can be revealing with your career trajectory. A person who is familiar with the industry will be able to guestimate a realistic metric. Such a metric should be based on the duration and/or level of experience a candidate has contrasted with the industry-standard pay rate such a position offers. An employer's market versus a job seeker's market can likewise influence your number. Your current earnings and where you feel you are on your career path compared to where your ultimate career goals are heading should give you a reasonable expectation of what you should ask for. How well you've performed in the interview so far, and your self-awareness in this regard, are likewise components to consider. How you quantify your answer will likewise justify your perceived self-worth. This is where you'll show your hand and how you not only value yourself but how realistic your expectations are.

This question can come up anywhere in the interview, but it more commonly comes towards the end. It's never a good idea for the person being interviewed to bring up pay too early on. But once the interviewer addresses it, it's fair game. A good question to ask, when quantifying your number, is how frequently pay increases occur, and how their pay structure works. Whether it is salary or hourly, likewise holds weight. You can also ask, to ensure you are coming up with a fair number, what other benefits are offered with the position. Health benefits cost an employer money and should be considered when coming up with your number, as well as any incentives, bonuses, or other perks.

Be open, realistic, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise. If you want the job, don't be too eager to accept a low offer. Likewise, don't throw out an unrealistic number. Doing so could be viewed as disrespectful of the time and energy they've spent interviewing you.

"I saw that starting pay is $30/hour and that works great for me."

What is your availability?

"I understand the nature of the job and what is expected of me. I have open availability."

Depending on the position you are applying for, staff shortages are often a concern for many of the positions within the Department of Corrections. With this question, they are gauging your overall flexibility and expectations.

Best to be honest. If you have other priorities or demands on your time that aren't conducive to working lots of overtime or covering other shifts, then it is worth clarifying this now. It is better for both an employee and an employer to learn that the job isn't a good fit earlier rather than later.

The job of a correctional officer, for example, demands long work hours in a very stressful environment, often spent on one's feet. Prison security needs to be provided around the clock, so correctional officers usually work in rotating shifts full time and some may be required to work overtime as well. Former employees report difficulty staying focused for twelve hours or even more, working with unpredictable inmates. Some report that rules aren't followed as far as how many hours one can work in a shift, and if they have something planned after work they'll likely not make it. They're sometimes part of a skeleton crew due to call-outs, as the rate of injury and illness is one of the highest of any profession, and they lose 90% of their personal life due to staff shortages and excessive overtime working.

Do you have any experience working with people with mental illness?

"I volunteered at a clinic run by the VA that assisted former military with substance abuse and PTSD. Not everyone came out the same, and everyone processes and deals with some of what happened over there differently. I lost a close friend to suicide after they were discharged. So that's what prompted me to volunteer. So, the answer is yes, I am no stranger to working with those experiencing mental illness."

Those working within the Department of Corrections often work with inmates experiencing an array of health issues, including mental health issues and experiencing suicidal or homicidal thoughts. In addition, it's estimated that over 10% of the prison population has a diagnosed mental health disorder, most commonly mood disorders. The interviewer is curious about what level of experience you have in such situations, and how you would handle being confronted with situations such as these.

Take time to determine whether you have relevant, translatable experience in this regard. If you have, use the STAR method to describe the Situation you encountered in your example, the Task at hand, the Action you took, and the overall Result. If you don't have an experience that translates, offer the experience you have, and details that you understand it doesn't translate to the position you are interviewing for. Offer your understanding of how this relates to the position, and eagerly ask clarifying questions as to what is expected.

When hiring a correctional officer, the interviewer tests various areas, including behavioral, physical, and mental aspects, to ensure applicants meet physical and mental suitability standards for the job. Many inmates have mental health issues that impact their behavior and communication abilities, which makes the job of an employee both physically and mentally demanding, and tests their communication skills as well.

"Yes, my sister, unfortunately, had depression and suicidal thoughts. When helping anyone with depression I try to stay positive and gentle, while trying to get them the help they need."

Have you worked in an environment that demanded a high level of adherence to routine?

"In the Marine Corps, yes. We did everything by the book, and everything ran the way it was supposed to. I loved it."

This question aims to determine how sustainable of an employee you'd be in an environment such as theirs. By determining whether you've worked in similar environments or not, they'll attempt to ascertain whether you'll burn out quickly from the monotony a job at the department of corrections might present, or if you typically thrive in a regimented, rule-bound environment.

Spend time drawing correlations between your work experience and the expectations of the position you're contending for. Once you've mapped those out, describe your relevant work experience in adhering to a regimented, monotonous routine. Next, offer your understanding of what the position you are interviewing for looks like. Then, ask for further clarification of what the position entails, beyond what they advertise in the job description, regarding the routine. With a clearer idea of what they're looking for, further elaborate on how your experience correlates with the expectations of the job.

The essential goal here is to communicate that you understand what is expected of you and that regardless of how many don't anticipate that this aspect of the job won't be that difficult, it is more arduous than it seems. Any manner that you can go about relating an equivalent experience will go a long way here.

"While working at __________, we had to log into the phones for the majority of our shifts and would get scheduled breaks that would help us maintain maximum time on the phones. I also try to stay in a constant routine in my personal life, going to the gym at similar times every day and eating at similar times as well."

Do you have a role model or mentor?

"Yes, I do. My mentor is in the Marine Corps. They took me under their wing, and I learned a lot. We still have a strong relationship to this day, and I still consider them my hero."

A candidate's role model, or figure of inspiration, will offer a glimpse into their personality, philosophy, and approach to life and work. The interviewer will examine the examples offered and consider how well a candidate will fit into their work environment.

Before answering this question, think of those who inspired you. Explore if they embodied some of the same qualities as one of your potential superiors in a work environment such as this. Inspirational people motivate us to keep going when we feel like giving up. They're passionate and driven, accomplishing goals that seem impossible and changing the way we view the world.

Typically, when asked this question in an interview, a candidate can freely draw their inspiration from a book, a mentor, family, a celebrity, an author, fictional or nonfictional, living or dead - anyone! For a role at the department of corrections, an interviewer will be screening for a more pragmatic and grounded individual. This being as it may, best to reserve your example for someone living who you knew personally, who mentored, influenced, or guided your character. Best to relate what you learned from them in a practical way that could lend to your experience and fitness for the role for which you are applying. Talk to the interviewer about who has inspired your life and why. Be relatable and try to inspire conversation. How well you get along with your interviewer will also offer insights on how well you will get along with the mentor they place you with.

"I would have to say that my old band teacher was a great role model. He would always preach this saying "If you're early, you're on time. If you're on time, you're late and if you're late, you're fired". That saying is one that I try to live by. My Mom is another great role model. She is a very diligent and hard-working person who has helped me get to where I am today."

Can you handle yourself physically when called upon to do so?

"Yes. I have a black belt in Tai Quan Dao and jiu-jitsu and was a military officer in the USMC. I can handle myself physically in many situations, and am capable of de-escalating a wide variety of situations with minimal effort and little to no physical harm to anyone."

Restraining and subduing a violent inmate, without causing harm is sometimes part of a job for an employee of the Department of Corrections. The interviewer wants to know how well versed you are in self-defense, and to ensure you'd be capable of handling such a situation without proving a liability.

Deliver your answer with confidence in your abilities, and answer honestly. With a confident demeanor, describe the level of your physical fitness and strength, and outline your level of experience in defensive combat and diffusing conflict.

According to interviews and studies with former employees of the Department of Corrections, depending on the position, they have one of the highest rates of injuries and illnesses out of all occupations. Injuries directly correlated with altercations with inmates were also relatively high.

"Yes, I have been training and pushing myself at the gym to get into great shape. I still have room for improvement, however, I've made a lot of progress and will continue to do so."

Have you ever been in a fight with someone?

"When I served in the Marine Corps, there were two fellas who, it seemed, were always on the edge of fighting each other. A few times I had to break up fights between them or a couple of other guys. They never hit me, though. That earned me the nickname, 'The diplomat'."

Again, this interviewer is gauging your levels of stress, assessing your personality, and whether you'd be a good fit for this role. They are also curious about how well you'd be able to handle yourself physically, and whether you are the protagonist or antagonist in your answer.

Answer honestly, framing yourself in the context as a defender, whether defending yourself or others. Try to limit the level of negativity in how you relay your example. Coming across as confident, calm, and not traumatized is the aim.

Avoid examples that extend outside of the professional realm. You don't want to come across as the type of person who has violent altercations wherever you go. The last thing they want to do is hire someone who is a loose cannon.

"I haven't been in a physical altercation. I view violence/fighting as a last resort. 99% of the time a fight happens because people want to fight, most disagreements can be solved peacefully. I think it's childish to not try to reason with someone and go in guns blazing looking to fight."

Have you ever managed medical emergencies?

"Yes. I was an EMT for a couple of years. I am perfectly capable of managing a wide variety of medical emergencies."

The interviewer is trying to evaluate your applicable experience, skills, and talents. They are likewise trying to determine how well your skills align with the needs of the position you are applying for.

Answer honestly. Exhibit an understanding of why they are answering this question. One of the primary responsibilities of many who work in the Department of Corrections is to respond to emergency situations as and when required. Keep this in mind, and how it relates to the role for which you are applying when formulating your answer. If you have any medical training, mention that as well.

In many correctional facilities, emergency care is provided immediately to inmates and does not always require the completion of a Medical Services Request form. Thoroughly research what the protocol is in such situations, or recall your personal experiences in this regard, and rehearse your answer prior to your interview.

"Yes, When I was in 4th grade, me and my siblings were on our way to school when the bus driver slammed on his brakes and sent my sister flying toward the front of the bus. She smashed her face against the dashboard and was losing a lot of blood. I kept her awake while 911 was called and she made it out ok."

Tell me about your experience working with highly structured teams.

"I think the more structured a team is, the better the functionality, collaboration, and communication is. A structured team is a highly functioning team. You know what to do, and it is as if everyone can read each other's minds. The best way to support the team is to anticipate the needs of those on your team. You can't do that without the team being highly structured, with common knowledge of what the team requires at all times. When I was in the USMC in Iraq...."

Teamwork is an important aspect of the culture at the Department of Corrections. There are very detailed protocols and rules to follow, and communication and working together are crucial. This question gauges how aligned your approach, mentality, and philosophy are with theirs.

Draw off of your experience in relation to this role. Be calm, confident, and objective. Maintain a professional and respectful tone at all times. Emphasize the importance of highly structured teams in this work environment, and reaffirm your commitment to the safety of your team, and the rules set by your superiors.

Avoid canned answers where you are trying to tell them what you think they want to hear. The aim is to relay that you would work well under such a structure and that you thrive in a rule-bound team environment.

"A highly structured team is a highly productive team. When working at _____, I would sometimes have to assign roles to different people to make us quicker as a collective. Someone would get the frozen foods, someone the refrigerated, and someone the ambient. Someone would take the groceries out and everyone repeats that instead of everyone doing everything all at once."

How do you stay motivated at work?

"I think in order to stay motivated at work, you have to be motivated by the work. There were a lot of soldiers that ended up being institutionalized in military life. When they ended up back in the civilian sector, many had trouble reintegrating and fell into depression, or into drugs, or other critical situations. Some end up in prison. When I was volunteering to help my fellow soldiers get back on their feet, I became invested in their rehabilitation. The same goes for here. The work is tough, and not everyone is looking to better their situation. A good many of them are just biding their time, or have an angle on how they get the upper hand on the inside. But for those who are trying to better themselves, are looking to get early parole, and are making efforts for good behavior and to turn a new leaf, they're looking for help. So I'd stay motivated for them. Everyone deserves a second chance. That's what the work is all about."

This direct behavioral question is self-evident in what they're looking to learn. It will clue them in to what your partnership with them would look like, as well as what might motivate you in this environment.

Give them insights as to what motivates and inspires you on a personal level, as well as how you stay motivated throughout your workday. Detail how you approach your work, regardless of whether the task is high-pressure or monotonous. Detail how you stay motivated and productive throughout your day.

The trick here is to convey that you won't burn out easily in this position. They are often looking for those who are motivated by the health and rehabilitation of the incarcerated, and the safety of those on your team.

"What motivates me is going home and being able to say I gave it my all. I feel disappointed when I didn't do my best at something. So going to work and helping as much as I can is how I stay motivated."

Have you ever worked with inmates?

"I worked with inmates when I was a military police officer in the Marine Corps. It's a bit different though, more regimented than a public prison."

They're not only curious about what your professional or personal experience is, but what kind of emotional response, or personal prejudice your answers might reveal. They're also curious in what capacity you have, or haven't, worked with inmates. They are looking for a candidate with relevant experience, who isn't easily intimidated and has strong stress coping mechanisms.

Stay calm while answering the question. Even if you have a bad experience, talk about it in a calm voice. They shouldn't notice a trace of anger or hate in your voice. On the other hand, if you have a positive experience, talk about it with enthusiasm. If you haven't worked with inmates in the prison system, mention any translatable, relevant experience you have.

Steer clear of any negatives in your language, tone, or emotional cues. Coming across as passionate in a negative way will serve as a red flag.

"I don't have any experience working with inmates. However, I would follow my training when working with them. I don't have any prejudice or maliciousness towards any inmates, I just think that they need help and guidance."

Have you ever been to prison?

"When I was in college, majoring in criminal justice with a minor in criminology, we visited a few prisons and interviewed several employees and a few inmates. It was similar to this."

Being convicted of a felony will disqualify anyone. It's a given that there will be an extensive background check performed on any viable candidate. Therefore, this question is likely not seeking to ascertain whether you have served time for a prison sentence, but rather what life experiences you've had regarding exposure to a prison environment. The test here is how you present your answer to the question, and how you interpret the language to the question. They'll be looking for any emotional tells or biases you'll exhibit towards prisons when answering this question.

Whether you've been to prison, visited someone in prison, or worked in a prison environment, it's best you answer honestly. Try to tie it in with your motivation for wanting to pursue this position. If you haven't, best to relay that as well.

Try to focus on positive experiences, and an understanding of how these facilities work with their daily regimen, shift patterns, rules, etc. Going into the interview, exhibit familiarity with what the position you're applying for entails, the level of exposure you'll have to the different facets of a prison environment while exuding respectful confidence. The goal is to present that you are comfortable with the prison environment and with your understanding of what the job entails.

"I don't have any experience with prisons, I want to work here though. I think that I can help rehabilitate inmates and be a solid member of the team."

Where do you see yourself in five years?

"I imagine in five years, I'd have proven myself as invaluable to the rest of my team at work, and am mentoring others in the way my mentor took care of me. Doing the best in my job, gaining tenure, building up a pension, and ensuring I am doing my best to provide for my family."

How you answer this question will offer insights into whether you'll be committed to the role you are applying to, or whether you are looking to temporarily fill an employment gap. Essentially, they're trying to ascertain whether this is a job for right now, or if this is the right job for you.

If you haven't already, put together a five-year career plan. You should be ready to revise your five-year career plan every year, determining where you are and building again from there, so you can adjust accordingly. Doing so will aid you in your interviews.

Before they can determine your fit into their culture, they're curious to find out what your goals are, and whether those goals line up with theirs. Thoroughly research the position and their work culture and before the interview determine how your goals align with theirs.

"I see myself as an important member of a team at work and am teaching others in the same way my role models helped me. I see myself providing for my family to the best of my ability and living a healthy lifestyle."

"I feel most motivated in my work when I am part of a well-oiled machine. Working in a facility where excellent systems are in place to ensure everyone is set up to keep the machine running motivates me more than anything. No matter what my part is, I consider myself an engineer. Keep the ship going, make sure everything is running well, and that no saboteurs throw a wrench in the mechanisms. I take a lot of pride in coming in, following protocol, and doing my part to make sure the machine keeps running as it is supposed to."

In the US there are 1,566 state prisons, 102 federal prisons, 2,850 local jails, 1,510 juvenile correctional facilities, 186 immigration detention facilities, and 82 Indian country jails, as well as military prisons, civil commitment centers, state psychiatric hospitals, and prisons in the U.S. territories. Conditions will vary from one facility to another. Yet former employees across the country have mentioned an above-average apathy with their coworkers when concerning the safety of the inmates, safety for themselves or their colleagues. Therefore, the interviewer wants to ensure that pay isn't your only motivator. Additionally, they are interested in your reasons for entering this field, and how those motivators might be tempered by the work.

Whatever your reasons for wanting to work in this field, you should spend some time rehearsing your answer. Whether you're interested in helping the sentenced to get back on track, or working in a structured, high-pressure environment similar to your military background, be honest with your reasons for seeking this position. Just be respectful, professional, and unbiased.

The advice of veteran correction officers is to exhibit a personal motivation to rehabilitate the sentenced. Yet, ironically, compassion and empathy aren't traits possessed by those they hire for most positions. However, correctional officers score highly on social responsibility, indicating that they desire fair outcomes and have a general concern for others. They do typically score highly for a desire to seek opportunities where they are in a position of authority in a rule-bound, structured environment.

"My motivation is being able to say "I gave my all today" and that I didn't let myself or anyone else down. I will do everything I can to help those who truly need it and a lot of those people are Inmates in correctional facilities just like this one. If I can help someone then everything I gave to do so was worth it."

Tell me something about your work experience.

"In the Marine Corps, I served as a MOS 5811, which is a military police officer. That was challenging when I had to police our own, but I wore it well and took pride in my work. No one is above the law, not even our own. As a result, I am no stranger to this type of work, and consider myself well qualified to take it on."

They're interested in finding out whether you have relevant work experience, and if not they'll be curious as to what motivated you to apply for a position in the Department of Corrections. Inherent natural talent isn't valued as highly as on-the-job relevant experience. Preference will be given to individuals who have previous experience working in a correctional setting, or to those who have a military background. They are also interested to determine if you understand the role you are applying for and whether you have the personality type that can endure what it takes.

Be professional and respectful. Avoid taking too conversational tone unless the interviewer sets that precedent. When answering questions like this, most candidates aren't sure how to present themselves, where to start, where to end, or how to elaborate their points with relevance to the position they're interviewing for. The trick is to compose your answer in advance and rehearse it. This is your first impression, so be confident and sincere. Think about your translatable leadership skills, communications skills, and ability to de-escalate situations and work under pressure in a high-stress environment. Doing so will convey some understanding of what the position entails.

Sought after traits are physicality, an ability for coping with stress, and being able to work an inflexible schedule. Must exhibit a willingness to cover for staff shortages and to put in lots of overtime. Competition at work is rarely a factor. The educational requirements are low for most roles in the department of corrections. Among correction officers, for example, 89% have a high school diploma, with only 11% holding a certificate or associate degree. Of those that possess degrees, 19% of correctional officers hold a criminal justice degree and 3% had a degree in criminology.

"In previous positions, my coworkers sometimes asked me to cover their shifts, and at _______ that meant a lot of heavy lifting, for my position at least. I didn't mind helping them when I could. There were sometimes when I was in school and couldn't cover their shifts however, now that I'm out of school that won't be an issue."

What can you tell me about yourself?

"I was a military brat, growing up on bases and traveling the world. We settled down in Nevada, where I went to high school. Later joined the military and served four tours in Iraq. Then I worked in security for a few years, which has led me to here."

They're testing to see if your personality fits the role. Stress is the largest contributor to the low career satisfaction scores across the board. They not only want to gauge how you cope with stress, but they're also interested in your professional conduct, and whether your conduct reflects respect for the authority of the individual conducting the interview. They're also curious why you are interested in this position.

Start by telling your name, then your educational background, experiences, interests, and skills. Keep your answer relevant to your professional experience and/or goals. Offer a hobby or two that they'll likely find as relatable. Additionally, if you have any combat or self-defense training be sure to mention that, and any other skills that would be a benefit to this position.

The personality profiling for a person seeking a position in the department of corrections typically tends to be pragmatic, and hands-on. They enjoy working outside and on hands-on projects. They enjoy physical activities, such as sports. Typical traits of those who work in the department of corrections are extroverted, high energy, restless, are considered risk-takers, and sometimes viewed as irresponsible, which is where their need for professional structure comes into play. They have no issues taking command and enjoy roles where they are influencing or persuading others. Realistic, hands-on, and practical, they aren't normally innovators, analytical, or creative types. An artist would not do well in this role, for example.

"I went to ___ High School and was involved in their Army JROTC program so I'm pretty good at taking orders. I'm responsible and calm and love watching football and ice hockey. I want this position to help people get back on their feet and be better citizens."

Describe an average inmate

"There's no average inmate. Each inmate has different reasons for being there, from different backgrounds, with different ways of coping, some more common than others. It's those who are always looking for an angle that you have to monitor. Whether they're blurring the boundaries and trying to manipulate you into a compromised position, trying to gain some kind of advantage where the trouble starts. They're the most attention-getting, but you can't label them as average. I'd say they're the minority, but the most visible out of a broad range."

They are again screening for your preconceived notions or personal prejudices. They are curious if you have any hands-on experience, and how your experience has influenced your opinion of the average inmate. They are basically trying to determine whether you'll be an asset or a liability.

The best answer is to focus on how everyone is different, as well as everyone's situation for being there. When forming your answer, rely on positive language while relaying your characteristic of an inmate. Using words like 'unpredictable' or 'self-centered' can pass. Remember, professionalism and respect for the chain of command, starting with the person conducting the interview, is the tone you should aim to set.

Assigning labels based on race or using derogatory language is considered unacceptable. Avoid discussing politics. Avoid approaching your answer with a conversational tone.

"I think that there isn't an average inmate. Every inmate is there for different reasons. I think that there are a lot of inmates who just made a very dumb and costly mistake and just need empathy. There are also, however, inmates who are manipulative and always looking to manipulate you into making a mistake. That's why you should always be on the lookout for that and follow the rules."

Tell me about a time you experienced a conflict at work.

"I was working in security for a corporate office and had to escort out a former employee who was disgruntled and showed up drunk and belligerent, trying to stir things up. I had to escort him off the premises. It was unfortunate. I knew the guy and liked him for my part. He was friendly, and we had a morning hello and an evening good night routine, our own banter. But they let him go, and he came back drunk and wasn't himself that day. He tried to slip past me twice, but I detained and escorted him out. It was easy to get hold of him without hurting him or myself. But that was the last time."

This behavioral question will offer a meaningful glimpse into your personality, as well as your soft skills. They're aiming to get a glimpse of your mediation and negotiation skills. The interviewer needs to know how adept and effective you are at diplomacy and working swiftly towards a communal end goal, before resorting to any physical altercations. They are also curious if you have issues with people in positions of authority, or if you strive to preserve the peace, and exhibit respect for your superiors.

Any position within the department of corrections is typically a stressful environment. This can easily result in intense situations between correctional officers, coworkers, or inmates. Exhibit your non-defensive communications skills here, as well as your ability to function as a mediator between those who don't see eye to eye. Convey a possession of strong conflict resolution skills in your example.

Avoid any examples of conflict in the workplace with your superiors or coworkers. Avoid examples where violence was the first reaction to a situation, or where the chain of command was not respected. The key here is to exhibit your inner strength and your capability to work in high-stress situations with composure.

"There was a situation where two of my coworkers started yelling at each other, eventually devolving into a fight. Another coworker and I separated them and got our superiors involved. I think it is hugely unprofessional to argue and especially yell or fight at the workplace, which I am very against."

Department of Corrections Interview Questions

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1. How would you maintain professional boundaries if an inmate started to befriend you or ask for favors?
2. What do you consider the toughest aspect of this job?
3. Describe a situation when you were under pressure at work.
4. Are you afraid of any person or situation?
5. How important is teamwork for you?
6. We have rules for everything here. Tell me about the time you found it difficult to follow the rules.
7. How would you handle the aggression and confrontation you are likely to face at this kind of job?
8. Have you ever worked in a stressful environment?
9. Share an example of when you went above and beyond the "call of duty".
10. Give me an example of when you used your observational skills to resolve or prevent a problem.
11. How would you rate your ability to stay calm when being provoked?
12. Are you able to regulate your emotions to do your job effectively?
13. What are your salary expectations?
14. What is your availability?
15. Do you have any experience working with people with mental illness?
16. Have you worked in an environment that demanded a high level of adherence to routine?
17. Do you have a role model or mentor?
18. Can you handle yourself physically when called upon to do so?
19. Have you ever been in a fight with someone?
20. Have you ever managed medical emergencies?
21. Tell me about your experience working with highly structured teams.
22. How do you stay motivated at work?
23. Have you ever worked with inmates?
24. Have you ever been to prison?
25. Where do you see yourself in five years?
26. What motivates you?
27. Tell me something about your work experience.
28. What can you tell me about yourself?
29. Describe an average inmate
30. Tell me about a time you experienced a conflict at work.

Department of Corrections Interview Questions

1. How would you maintain professional boundaries if an inmate started to befriend you or ask for favors?

2. What do you consider the toughest aspect of this job?

3. Describe a situation when you were under pressure at work.

4. Are you afraid of any person or situation?

5. How important is teamwork for you?

6. We have rules for everything here. Tell me about the time you found it difficult to follow the rules.

7. How would you handle the aggression and confrontation you are likely to face at this kind of job?

8. Have you ever worked in a stressful environment?

9. Share an example of when you went above and beyond the "call of duty".

10. Give me an example of when you used your observational skills to resolve or prevent a problem.

11. How would you rate your ability to stay calm when being provoked?

12. Are you able to regulate your emotions to do your job effectively?

13. What are your salary expectations?

14. What is your availability?

15. Do you have any experience working with people with mental illness?

16. Have you worked in an environment that demanded a high level of adherence to routine?

17. Do you have a role model or mentor?

18. Can you handle yourself physically when called upon to do so?

19. Have you ever been in a fight with someone?

20. Have you ever managed medical emergencies?

21. Tell me about your experience working with highly structured teams.

22. How do you stay motivated at work?

23. Have you ever worked with inmates?

24. Have you ever been to prison?

25. Where do you see yourself in five years?

26. What motivates you?

27. Tell me something about your work experience.

28. What can you tell me about yourself?

29. Describe an average inmate

30. Tell me about a time you experienced a conflict at work.

9. Share an example of when you went above and beyond the "call of duty".