Master 40 FBI interview questions covering security clearances, investigative scenarios, and ethical judgment.
Question 8 of 40
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Focus Your Answer On
What to Avoid
Remember To
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Entry Level
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Krista Wenz has been on thousands of interview panels hiring EMS professionals and firefighters for public and private agencies.
The interviewer wants to hear your reasons for choosing this profession to understand what motivates you in your career. They want to hear if another FBI Special Agent mentored you, have family or friends who work in the FBI, if you worked in another industry and decided to change careers, or had a recruiter suggest you would be a perfect fit for the FBI.

Krista Wenz has been on thousands of interview panels hiring EMS professionals and firefighters for public and private agencies.
Focus on giving your personal reason for choosing this career, responding with enthusiasm and passion. There is no right or wrong answer. The interviewer wants to gain insight into what motivates and inspires you to work for the FBI to determine if you will be a good fit for their organization.

Krista Wenz has been on thousands of interview panels hiring EMS professionals and firefighters for public and private agencies.
Avoid saying you are pursuing a career with the FBI for the money and benefits or because you want a position of power. If you seem like you are only in this career for monetary reasons, the interviewer will feel you lack passion for the job. If you say that you want a position of power, they may question your personality and motivation for working in this profession.

Krista Wenz has been on thousands of interview panels hiring EMS professionals and firefighters for public and private agencies.
If you have a friend, family member, or recruiter who works for the FBI, remember to mention that in your response. The interviewer may give you a higher rating as a candidate if you have some exposure to their agency and understand how they operate.

Krista Wenz has been on thousands of interview panels hiring EMS professionals and firefighters for public and private agencies.
"I am pursuing a career in the FBI after serving in the military for sixteen years. I was recruited by Joseph Baumgartner, who encouraged me to apply. After meeting with Joseph, I feel the FBI has a lot to offer me regarding professional development and growth. I also believe my skills and expertise from the military will be an asset to the agency if you choose to offer me the position."

Krista Wenz has been on thousands of interview panels hiring EMS professionals and firefighters for public and private agencies.
"Since I was a little kid, I knew I wanted to work for the FBI. My grandfather, uncle, and father all worked for the FBI, so I have been exposed to the agency my whole life. I want to follow in my family's footsteps while fulfilling my dream of working as a Special Agent."

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Written by Krista Wenz
40 Questions & Answers • FBI

By Krista

By Krista