Master 40 Investigator interview questions covering case analysis, evidence handling, and investigative methodology.
Question 33 of 40
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Focus Your Answer On
What to Avoid
Example Answer
Entry Level
Community Answers

Krista Wenz has been on thousands of interview panels hiring EMS professionals and firefighters for public and private agencies.
As a criminal investigator, you never know what each workday will bring you. One day, you might have a heavy caseload, and other days you might be caught up with your work. Depending on what you are investigating, you might have to work past your 'normal' work hours to follow a lead or participate in a lengthy interrogation. You must be willing to put in long hours to succeed at your job, and the interviewer wants to hear that you are eager to be a team player.

Krista Wenz has been on thousands of interview panels hiring EMS professionals and firefighters for public and private agencies.
Focus on letting the interviewer know that you are not afraid of long hours and hard work. If you have worked as a criminal investigator before, describe how you know what the job entails and understand that working long hours is part of the job. If you are new to the investigative field, give an example of when you have put in long hours at university or in another profession.

Krista Wenz has been on thousands of interview panels hiring EMS professionals and firefighters for public and private agencies.
You want to avoid showing the interviewer that you are not a team player by saying you cannot work past your scheduled hours. If you will not be dedicated to your job and do what it takes during an investigation, the interviewer will look for another candidate who has more flexibility with their schedule and dedication to their career.

Krista Wenz has been on thousands of interview panels hiring EMS professionals and firefighters for public and private agencies.
"No, I do not have an issue working long hours when needed. I have worked as a criminal investigator for the past 15 years and understand the job completely. I do not think I have gone home at my scheduled time most of my working life! But, working to resolve a case is worth the long hours in the end."

Krista Wenz has been on thousands of interview panels hiring EMS professionals and firefighters for public and private agencies.
"As a recent graduate with my bachelor's degree in criminal justice, I understand putting in long hours. I was a full-time student and worked part-time during those years. I am used to putting in 12 to 16-hour days, and I do not feel this job will be much different when working an investigation."

Interview Coach
Jaymie
A real coach, not AI. I read every answer myself and write back with personalized feedback.
Typically responds within 24 hours.
0 - Character Count
Prepare for behavioral scenarios and technical questions that test investigative judgment.
Get StartedJump to Question

Written by Krista Wenz
40 Questions & Answers • Investigator

By Krista

By Krista