How do you react to an increase in your investigative workload?
Workloads will increase and decrease as assignments close and new ones come up. The interviewer would like to know how you adapt when the work piles up. Show that you are willing to ask for help when necessary, put in overtime, or take work home when needed. You will also want to express your time-management abilities.
"My workload increases as new investigations come up. It's the ebb and flow of working in law enforcement. When my work is piling up, I will ask for assistance from another investigator who has a lighter workload. I offer the same assistance to my coworkers when they have a larger than normal workload. I love being busy, so I thrive on those opportunities for more work and additional chances to prove my value as a criminal investigator."
"My school workload changes by the minute, so I am accustomed to a range of workloads and deadlines. I have learned to adapt to challenges as they arise. I avoid overwhelmed feelings by remaining organized and asking for help when needed. I am not afraid to work long hours when necessary. Of course, I will learn new techniques as my career grows, allowing me to handle more volume as time goes on."
The interviewer wants to hear that you can handle a heavy workload and not get overwhelmed. Some of the characteristics of a great Criminal Investigator are managing heavy caseloads, staying organized, and knowing when to delegate and ask for help. Focus your answer on staying calm and relaxed under pressure, showing the interviewer you can handle the stressors of the job.
Criminal investigators need to juggle many things at once while remaining professional and calm. You want to avoid saying that you react by feeling overwhelmed, stressed out, or are unable to handle an increased workload. If you respond in this manner, the interviewer will determine that you might not be the best candidate for the position.
Unlock all 40 Investigator questions
Prepare for behavioral scenarios and technical questions that test investigative judgment.
Get Started