How do you handle the stress and pressure of being a criminal investigator?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Focus Your Answer On
What to Avoid
Entry Level Example
Answer Example

Many stresses come from being a criminal investigator. The interviewer wants to hear that you have healthy coping mechanisms when dealing with high amounts of pressure that come from working in law enforcement. Discuss how you can thrive, even during the most stressful times. You can keep your answer brief. If you can, provide an example of when you implemented a stress-management technique in your current role.

Focus your answer on the healthy ways you identify and manage stress in the workplace. These can be techniques you use while at work or in your free time. For example, you might do some deep breathing exercises while at work to calm your nerves and help you focus on your assignments. Or, you may exercise, read, or do yoga on your days off to help decompress from the stressors at work.

You want to avoid not having an outlet or techniques in place to manage stress. If the interviewer determines that you do not have stress management skills, they will think you might burn out quickly or suffer mental health issues down the road. You must have ways to manage stress to keep your physical and mental health in optimal shape.

"I have experienced high-stress levels many times while obtaining my degree. These times of stress might be when I have a full exam schedule or multiple deadlines to meet. To keep myself grounded, I stay well-rested and put importance on self-care. I read books and try to limit unnecessary screen time, such as scrolling through social media."

"I am highly resilient to stress and believe this is because of my twelve years of experience within high-pressure investigative environments. In times of extreme stress, I keep myself in check by identifying the core of what is causing me the stress. I will break down that specific situation and then move on to other priorities. It also helps to talk to other investigators and be open about my feelings if I'm feeling overwhelmed."