Tell me about a time when you made a tough ethical decision.
Criminal investigators, above all, have to abide by the law, be honest, and be full of integrity. As an investigator, if you are caught lying, falsifying information, or taking part in unethical investigative methods, you could not only lose your job but could also face criminal charges. Discuss with the interviewer any instance where you faced an ethical dilemma and did the right thing. If you are new to your career, you may not have an example to use. If that is the case, you can speak hypothetically, being sure to express to the interviewer that you are honest and trustworthy.
"I have been asked many times, sometimes in more obvious ways than others, to falsify information in an administrative or investigative report. Investigators often become emotionally attached to their cases and, to 'win,' they leave their integrity behind. I have zero tolerance for this type of behavior. Rest assured, I always act with honesty and offer transparency in every action that I take within an investigation."
"I learned early on in my studies that investigators often ride a delicate line between gathering information tenaciously and doing so in a way that tricks or deceives others. Some examples that come to mind include planting evidence, lying in court, falsifying information inside investigative reports, or misleading other Investigators and officers. As a recent graduate, I found many opportunities to take shortcuts or even cheat on exams or projects. I have always dodged temptation by reminding myself that without my integrity, I have nothing."
When responding to this question, you want to focus on the fact that you are honest and trustworthy. You also want to highlight that you have integrity and a strong moral compass which helps guide you on the right ethical path. You want the interviewer to trust that you always make the right decision and are not led by temptation.
When describing a time you made a tough ethical decision, try to avoid talking about a personal situation but rather a professional one. However, if you have not worked as an investigator before, you can then use a situation related to school or a previous job.
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