Tell me about your most challenging criminal investigation.

"Being new to my criminal investigation career, I suspect that I will come across many challenges in my first few years, and I am ready to meet these challenges with hard work and enthusiasm. This year, the biggest challenges that I expect to face include learning the related systems and various communication tech tools. These tools will help me to do my job better and faster, so I aim to have this as a significant focus of learning right away. With the growth and challenges with virtual evidence, I expect to face roadblocks regarding collecting, inventory, and digital evidence. I will keep up with these challenges by reading and learning more about cybercrime and best practices in unconventional criminal investigations."

The interviewer would like to know the types and levels of investigations you have been a part of in your career. If you have some years of experience, this question will be simple for you to answer. Be prepared to give an overview of the situation, the most significant challenges, and how you overcame this in the end. If you are new to your career, speak about what you believe will be the most considerable challenge ahead of you. Be prepared to discuss how you plan to overcome the situation.

Focus your answer on how you overcame the difficulties you encountered in your most challenging criminal investigation. The interviewer wants to hear that you have patience and perseverance to work through challenging situations and will not give up in trying times.

When responding to this question, you want to avoid dwelling on the challenges you faced. You must show the interviewer that you can persevere and continue moving forward when difficulties arise and that you do not quit or pass off your investigation to someone else.

"The biggest challenge I have come across lately was one involving international cybercrimes. Although technology is fast-changing and makes our lives easier in many ways, as an investigator, there can be a lot of red tape with digital evidence. In this particular case, I had to adhere to different constitutional protections related to evidence from digital devices. In the end, I was able to collect the information needed; however, the process took much longer than I initially anticipated."

How do you withstand the ethical dilemmas associated with this unique type of work?

"While obtaining my degree in criminal justice, I learned a great deal about protecting people's rights, avoiding profiling, and ensuring impartiality at all times. I must maintain a solid level of integrity during my investigative career. To avoid ethical dilemmas, I will speak up immediately when I see something with which I disagree. I will be transparent with my leadership team and ask questions or conduct research when I am not sure where to draw the line in a particular situation."

Some of the ethical dilemmas you may encounter as a criminal investigator include profiling or unconscious bias, remembering rights, and ensuring impartiality. The interviewer wants to know how you go about ensuring that you act ethically and appropriately at all times. Talk about a situation where there was an option to take the wrong course of action, but you stayed on the ethical track anyways. Show that you have an enormous amount of integrity in your approach.

Focus your answer on letting the interviewer know that you always follow your moral compass and uphold your integrity in any situation. When you show the interviewer that you are unwavering in your ethical beliefs, they will see that you are the type of criminal investigator they want on their team.

You want to avoid giving the interviewer reason to believe that you are not sincere in your response. You want to be passionate and show the interviewer that you maintain your integrity and do not crumble when faced with an ethical dilemma.

"I have come across ethical dilemmas during investigations. At times, the lines can blur when it comes down to a citizens' rights during interrogation. One such time, my investigative partner was riding the line, and so I gave him a discreet signal to pull his questioning back a touch. I have no problem taking action like this when I suspect that some type of overstepping is about to occur."

How do you react to an increase in your investigative workload?

"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."

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.

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.

"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."

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

"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."

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 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."

How do you react when the outcome of a case is discouraging?

"Being new to my career as a criminal investigator, I suspect that the first disappointing outcome will be the hardest to handle. Today, as a student, I receive grades lower than I would like at times and choose to take them as growth opportunities. I have learned that I feel discouraged when my expectations do not properly align with reality. To avoid overreacting in a situation where I am disappointed, I ask myself whether or not my expectations are realistic. If needed, I will adjust these expectations, learn what I need to, and move on with confidence."

We all experience disappointment and setbacks in life. What separates us is how we react in situations where we feel let down. Give the interviewer an example of a time when the outcome of your case was discouraging. Talk about how you felt, how you reacted, and what you learned from the situation. If you are new to your career as a criminal investigator, you can give an example from an internship or your post-secondary studies.

Rather than focusing on the negative aspect of an unfortunate case, it is best to focus on the positive and what you learned from the experience. How you handle perceived failures and grow from them shows the interviewer that you have the emotional fortitude needed for the job.

You want to avoid dwelling on the outcome of a discouraging case or tell the interviewer that you have a hard time handling unfortunate results. As a Criminal Investigator, you must be able to roll with the punches and keep moving forward, no matter the outcome of an investigation.

"Last year, I worked on a very complicated investigation surrounding drug trafficking and money laundering. Due to politics out of our control, my unit did not see our desired outcome. Rather than feel angry and internalize the situation, I chose not to allow the outcome to impact my perceived value as an investigator. I mustn't allow ego to get in the way of my growth. I am strong enough to handle failures and receive them as opportunities for growth."

When an investigation suffers a setback, what is your initial reaction?

"I can only imagine the frustration of seeing a case suffer after putting so much heart into the details. I believe it's important for an investigator to remain collected, so I would take a minute to digest the information and then reassess my approach or strategy. In my personal life, I try to treat setbacks as lessons, so I would take what I could from the situation to learn and improve."

Criminal investigators must get used to suffering setbacks in their careers, as cases do not always go as planned. New evidence can railroad a theory, people you rely on for testimony can prove untrustworthy, and more. The interviewer would like to know how you react to setbacks in a case. Talk about your initial reaction and the steps you take to bounce back. Everyone handles led-downs differently, so be clear with the interviewer how you typically cope with these types of situations.

When responding to this question, you want to focus on how you recover and move forward in the investigation. The interviewer wants to see that you are resilient and do not let setbacks derail your investigation.

You want to avoid saying that you lose hope or focus on the investigation. When setbacks occur, the interviewer wants to hear that you have problem-solving and critical thinking skills criminal investigators need to develop a new strategy.

"As a criminal investigator, I must remain cool on the job. There have been instances where I put my heart into a case. Then, a factor outside of my control derails my progress. If this happens, I allow myself a moment to be frustrated, but always in private. I must remain professional and quickly recover so that I can remain focused on what I can control."

What is your weakest characteristic, and what are you doing to improve on it?

"My supervisor recently provided me with the feedback that I need to spend less time concerning myself with policy and more time trusting that I am making the right decision for an investigation and my team. I believe this is a common weakness of investigators who are newer to their careers. I have been working to improve this by reading more case studies and breaking down the outcome. I believe the more I know, the more I will learn to trust my knowledge base and problem-solving process."

In this case, you must be honest; however, you will want to choose a weakness that is not a core need for the interviewing company. Be prepared to recognize that you aren't great at everything. Choose a fault that you can begin to improve immediately. What the interviewer will also be looking for is that you have an action plan in place for improving on this weakness. Maybe you listen to podcasts, read books, and actively learn new methodologies to improve this shortcoming. We are all human with our flaws, so don't be afraid to share yours!

Focus your answer on explaining what steps you are taking to improve your weakest characteristic. The interviewer is more interested in hearing how you will turn your weakness into a strength, showing that you are self-aware and motivated to grow professionally.

Avoid describing your weakest characteristic as one that is not relevant to the job of a criminal investigator. The interviewer is more interested in how you plan to improve professionally rather than personally.

"My weakness comes in task delegation. I know what needs doing in a successful investigation and how I want it done, so it's often easier to do it myself. However, it can inhibit my ability to grow, as well as the abilities of those around me. I am currently reading 'The Art of Delegation.' This book has given me ideas on how to grow the responsibilities of those around me. Already, I find my propensity to hold onto control has decreased, so I'm certainly moving in the right direction."

Our agency performs a thorough, pre-employment background check on all candidates. What is the worst thing that will show up during your background investigation?

"The worst thing that will show up in my background check will be that I filed for bankruptcy 10 years ago. It has been cleared from my record, but you may still find it during your investigation. I went through a horrible divorce and found the only way to get back on my feet was to file bankruptcy. I am now remarried, have no credit card debt, and have taken out a mortgage on my house. I pay all of my bills on time and have a credit score of 800. I have never been given a traffic citation or charged with any crime."

The interviewer asks this question for two reasons. Suppose the organization has disqualifiers for employment, such as a prior felony or drug arrest. In that case, the interviewer will stop the interview and not continue forward if you answer with an employment disqualifier. Second, if you do not meet their employment disqualifiers, the interviewer wants a heads up on the worst thing they will find in your background check, so there are no surprises.

As with any interview question, you want to focus on answering truthfully. Even if you had a prior arrest, citation, poor credit, or misdemeanor charge in the past, it would show up during your background investigation. When you explain what happened, the resolution, and what you learned from that experience, the interviewer can determine if their organization can overlook it.

You want to avoid failing to mention something that the interviewer will find out from your past. It is embarrassing to admit your mistake, but owning up to your mistake, being honest, and learning from it will show the interviewer that you have good moral character.

"I am not sure if this will show up during my background investigation, but I want to mention that my mother is incarcerated for embezzlement. Two years ago, she was convicted of embezzling $400,000 from her employer and is currently serving a 10-year sentence. As far as my criminal past and credit score, I have never been in trouble with the law, and I have a credit score of 785."

This position requires random drug testing twice a year. Do you have an issue with random drug testing?

"I saw that this is a requirement in your job announcement, and I do not have an issue with random drug testing. I do not use drugs and have nothing to hide."

The interviewer wants to hear that random drug testing will not be an issue for you if hired and that you are aware of this requirement. Some agencies require pre-employment and random drug testing for their employees, especially when working in law enforcement. If the agency has these requirements, they will typically put this in their job announcement, so it should not surprise you to hear this.

You want the interviewer to understand that you do not have an issue with this requirement because you have nothing to hide. Focus on letting the interviewer know you do not use illegal drugs or misuse prescription drugs.

If you have reason to believe you might fail a random drug test, you should avoid applying to this position until you address your drug problem. Most agencies have a zero-tolerance drug policy, so you should be clean before entering this line of work.

"No, I do not have an issue with random drug testing. I have never used drugs and do not take prescription medications, so my tests will always turn up negative."

Some cases require you to work long hours. Do you have an issue working long hours when needed?

"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."

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.

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.

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.

"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."

Occasionally, our investigative team will travel to pursue evidence or a suspect. Do you have an issue with traveling when needed?

"I love traveling and will not have an issue with traveling when needed. I am excited by the opportunity to go to different places while conducting an investigation."

As a criminal investigator, you must be flexible with your hours and travel when needed for an investigation. If travel is required for the position, the agency will typically put that in the job description, so you should be aware of this requirement before your interview. The interviewer wants to hear that you understand the requirement and do not have reasons for being unable to travel.

When responding to this question, focus on letting the interviewer know that you can travel when needed. Describe how you are familiar with how investigations work and that you are available to travel for as long as necessary to complete your investigation.

To be considered for the job, you want to avoid saying that you cannot travel. If you have an outside obligation that would make traveling difficult, such as taking care of an elder or child, describe your situation and explain how you will find someone to help cover you while you are traveling.

"No, I do not have an issue with traveling when needed. I have worked as an investigator for six years and understand that traveling is part of the job. I want to let you know that I have my son every weekend. If I need to travel on the weekend, I need a little advance notice to arrange childcare while I am gone. But, I want to assure you that traveling will not be an issue. I have a great support system that helps me when needed."

Are you a trustworthy person?

"It's critical that, as a criminal investigator, I am a reliable and trustworthy source. I show my trustworthiness by keeping my word, maintaining discretion, and being consistent in my behaviors and attitudes towards others."

To be a trustworthy person means that people can rely on you. They can trust that you will be truthful, honest, and someone who honors their word. As an investigator, people must be able to lean on you. Talk about your level of trustworthiness and give an example of how you exude this in the workplace.

Focus on giving examples of your trustworthiness. Describe how your coworkers can rely on you, how you keep your word, and how you are honest in everything you do. You want the interviewer to see that they can trust you with confidential information and be honest as a criminal investigator if hired.

You want to avoid saying that you are not a trustworthy or honest person for obvious reasons. If you do not feel that you are honest and trustworthy, the interviewer will pass you over for a candidate who possesses those qualities.

"I take pride in being considered trustworthy and reliable. As a criminal investigator, I hold a lot of sensitive information that must remain confidential. I show my trustworthiness by never breaching this confidentiality. My coworkers can count on me to deliver accurate information, be on time, and answer their calls for help when needed."

Are you able to communicate with people from all walks of life?

"From my time in college to my volunteer work and internship, I have been exposed to a great range of people of different ages, ethnicities, sexual identities, and more. I embrace diversity and love to communicate with people from various backgrounds. As an investigator, I will, no doubt, continue to exercise this interest in others with an approach of ultimate respect."

This question is asking how you handle diversity. The statement, 'all walks of life' can include people of various ages, religious beliefs, political backgrounds, genders, ethnicity, sexuality, and more. As a criminal investigator, you must show tolerance for people the same as you and different from you. You must not show bias in your work, and you must remain impartial. Talk to the interviewer about your ability and willingness to communicate with a mosaic of people.

When responding to this question, focus on using an example of how you communicate with diverse groups of people. If you have experience as a criminal investigator, use an example from the workplace. If you are new to the field, describe an experience from school or another job.

You want the interviewer to feel that you can communicate with a variety of people. You want to avoid saying that you do not have experience or do not feel comfortable communicating with all walks of life.

"When I communicate with others, I first take into account my approach based on their background and the communication style to which they will best relate. For instance, I will converse with a senior citizen differently from a teenager. I will speak to their generation and use an approach that they find appropriate and respectful. I like to get to know other cultures and what they value, so I ask many questions and get to know people on a human level. When it comes to my colleagues, I do my best to make everyone feel at ease and welcome for who they are."

Are you able to work with minimal supervision?

"As a student, much of what I do is based on independent learning, studying, and research. I have managed to get my assignments in on time and follow a dedicated study schedule while working part-time. I can be trusted to deliver my work promptly and work efficiently in the absence of supervision. With that said, I do welcome teamwork, collaboration, and feedback on my performance."

The interviewer wants to hear that you can work independently while following directions and instructions carefully. It's essential to strike a healthy balance when answering this question - a balance between being independent yet still able to collaborate well with others. Talk about the autonomy you have in your current role and how well you work on your own. Be sure to mention how you get along with your team and what you do to ensure smooth collaboration.

You want to focus your answer on giving an example of working independently with minimal supervision. It can be an example in the workplace or school, depending on your experience as a criminal investigator. Be sure to follow up with your ability to work well on a team, as well.

You want to avoid saying that you do not work well with minimal supervision. If you need to be constantly supervised, the interviewer will determine that you lack the confidence to work well on your own and question your abilities as a criminal investigator.

"In my current role, I work with minimal supervision. I perform my documentation and research independently, and then I collaborate with my team when strategizing on a case or lining up interviews. I am receptive to feedback and take direction well, making me a strong candidate for roles that offer minimal supervision."

Do you have much experience testifying in court?

"Since I am new to this field, I have not testified in court as a criminal investigator. However, I testified in court three years ago after witnessing a crime. I was called as a witness by the prosecution and testified for three hours. I was cross-examined hard by the defense attorney but kept my cool at all times. I feel confident that I will feel the same way when I have to testify as a criminal investigator for the first time."

Testifying in court is one of the job duties of a criminal investigator, depending on where you work. The interviewer wants to hear if you have much experience to see how comfortable you will be testifying in court when needed. If you have testified in court, describe your background and how comfortable you felt. If you have not testified in court, explain that you do not have that experience, but you think that you will do well when asked to testify.

The interviewer wants to determine how comfortable you will be and how well you will do when testifying in court. It is understandable to be nervous, but the interviewer wants to hear that you have confidence in your ability as a criminal investigator and will control your nerves just as if you were interrogating or interviewing someone. Focus your answer on assuring the interviewer that you have the skills needed to do your job.

Avoid telling the interviewer that you are scared to testify in court or do not like testifying in court. If that is one of the job requirements for the position you are interviewing for, you must be comfortable testifying in court when needed.

"Yes, I have testified in court approximately 20 times over the past seven years as a criminal investigator. I feel confident in my communication skills and have not had a problem testifying in any of those cases."

How perceptive are you?

"I like to get an accurate read on people and situations by first being a quiet observer. I will ask questions with purpose and listen intently for discrepancies or gaps of information in a response. There is always more to learn, and I look forward to gaining more tips and tricks in perception as I grow in my investigative career."

To be perceptive means that you are observant, good at solving problems, and figuring out solutions. Often, you see factors that other people miss or notice details that other people typically overlook. The interviewer wants to know that you have this skill, which is essential for criminal investigators to possess. Talk to the interviewer about when your perceptiveness was a considerable benefit to a problem or situation.

Focus your answer on providing an example of your perceptiveness put to use in the workplace. When you can describe a situation that benefitted by your perceptiveness, the interviewer can see that you are an excellent criminal investigator and one that would be a good fit for their team.

If you want to be offered the criminal investigator position, you want to avoid saying you are not perceptive. If you cannot pick up on clues by observing and interrogating suspects, the interviewer will determine you may not have the skills they are looking for in an investigator.

"I have a strong sense of perception and am often the person to notice an error or oversight before anyone else. What I have done in the past is taught myself to be an extra-keen listener. I ask open-ended questions and make sure that every conversation I am a part of brings value to an investigation. I also look for many verbal and non-verbal cues, primarily when questioning a person, which often leads to insights that my colleagues may not pick up on."

"I consider myself to be a keen listener and a quiet observer. I like to listen for confirmations, information gaps, and discrepancies when interacting with an interviewee. I am also keenly observant of a person's body language, gestures, and facial expressions and their changes. I like to get a snapshot of an interviewee's initial body language just before the interview and then observe their changes during the interview. I often identify discrepancies that my colleagues may not pick up on."

How do you stay current with changes in this industry?

"As I am a new criminal investigator, I have not had to stay current with changes as of yet. I listen to a podcast that covers advancements in criminal investigations, which I find fascinating, and subscribe to a former criminal investigator's blog. Are there specific ways you would recommend to stay current with changes in this industry?"

If you are a seasoned criminal investigator, you have seen how investigating crimes has changed over the years. As a criminal investigator, investigating crimes has become more complex with the amount of available technology. The interviewer wants to hear how you stay updated with the latest technology and ever-changing ways to investigate crimes. If you are new to the industry, explain how you will subscribe to certain publications, listen to podcasts, take courses, and collaborate with other Investigators to stay current with changes in this industry.

Focus your answer on naming podcasts you listen to, courses you are signed up to take, blogs you follow, and publications you subscribe to. The more you follow, the better. You want the interviewer to see that you are dedicated to your profession and seek continued education and professional growth to keep yourself current.

You want to avoid not being able to name how you stay current in this industry. Suppose you do not seek to grow professionally and stay current with the trends and technology. In that case, the interviewer will determine that you are not a motivated individual and may pass you over for another candidate.

"I stay current with changes in the industry by attending yearly conferences on forensic and criminal investigations. I also subscribe to the 'Journal of Forensic Science and Criminal Investigation,' which supplies me with up-to-date and reliable sources of information and discoveries in this field. I have many friends who are experienced criminal investigators, and we share information, too."

Do you have formal training in interrogations?

"I recently completed my level I and level II interview & interrogation courses. There was a great deal of focus on PEACE, which is Preparation and Planning, Engage and Explain, Account, Closure, and Evaluate. This form of interrogation is prevalent in the UK and highly effective because it makes the examination feel like an interview. The purpose is to ask many questions and get the suspect to talk for a long time, eventually becoming friendly and encouraging a confession. Although I have primarily practiced the PEACE method, I am very open to gaining more knowledge in methods such as cognitive investigations and kinesic interviews."

As a criminal investigator, you may be required to perform, participate in, or even lead interrogations of suspects, witnesses, and family members. Whether you have on-the-job experience, formal training, or are new to the industry, the interviewer wants to hear that you are able and willing to learn what you need to perform an investigation successfully. Describe any formal training you have received in interrogations or any training you are signed up to take.

Focus your answer on where you received your training and what you learned. If you have not received specialized training in interrogations, it would be a good idea to look into training and sign up for a course. It can only increase your skills as a criminal investigator and it shows the interviewer that you have the motivation and the drive to improve.

Avoid saying that you do not have formal training in interrogations and you have no desire to learn. Suppose you do not want to improve your skills and gain valuable information from an interrogation course. In that case, the interviewer will determine that you lack the motivation to better yourself as a Criminal Investigator.

"I took a couple of classes including interview & interrogation when I was pursuing my criminal justice degree. These courses taught me helpful basics. Over the years, I have further mastered different interrogation techniques, including cognitive interviews, leading and loaded questions, and kinesic interviews. I am very confident in my interviewing skills; however, I am always open to deeper learning."

What do you like to do in your free time?

"For the past four years, I have been a full-time student and part-time employee, so I do not typically have a lot of free time. When I have a day off, I like to go for mountain bike rides with my girlfriend, go to a CrossFit class, or practice playing my guitar. Those are all activities that help me rejuvenate and bring my stress levels down."

The interviewer asks this question to gain insight into your personality and see if you enjoy the same hobbies and activities as the rest of the team. Not that you have to like the same things as those you work with, but it can make an enjoyable environment when coworkers have common interests. The interviewer also wants to see that you have healthy ways to decompress and debrief from the stressors of the job.

Focus on giving three or four examples of what you like to do in your free time. Describe how these activities help you relax and rejuvenate you for your next shift.

You want to avoid mentioning activities that may look childish or unprofessional to the interviewer, even though they are harmless. Suppose you say that you like to lay around playing video games or get drunk with your buddies while watching a game. While there is nothing wrong with spending your free time however you please, the interviewer might disagree with your choices. It is best to mention activities that include spending time with your family, exercising, reading, or playing music, which are all neutral activities that most interviewers would identify with.

"In my free time, I like to spend it with my husband and three children. We like to take our dogs to the beach, go boogie boarding, have barbeques with our neighbors, and spend time planting vegetables in our garden. With my line of work, I rarely have a lot of time to spend with them, which they understand. I also like to do yoga and meditate every morning, which helps me clear my head for the day."

Why did you choose to become a criminal investigator?

"I chose a career as a criminal investigator because of an opportunity to help others as well as the intellectual stimulation I knew this path would bring as my career grew. I love being in situations that challenge me, forcing me to think fast and keep up with continually shifting information and evidence. I believe in advocating for victims and creating a safe and enjoyable society. It would mean the world to me if I could be an active participant in making that happen."

The hiring authority would like to know your 'why' and what drives you to propel forward into a criminal investigative career. This question is an excellent opportunity to let the interviewer get to know you a bit, showing what makes you tick when it comes to your workplace pursuits. You can become as personal as you wish when answering this question. Of course, beware of too much information! However, you also want to make sure to draw a personal connection in your response.

When responding to this question, focus on showing your passion for becoming a criminal investigator. When the interviewer sees that you are passionate about your career, it shows them that you will be a good fit for their team.

You want to avoid saying why you chose this profession as something the hiring authority may deem is for the wrong reasons. For example, if you say you wanted to become a Criminal Investigator for the notoriety or pay, the interviewer may feel that your heart is not in the right place. They want to hire a Criminal Investigator who wants to solve crime, help victims of crime, and bring those who committed crimes to justice.

"I grew up in a rough neighborhood, in a low-income family, where I witnessed a lot of crime before I even reached my youth. These experiences made me who I am today and are a big reason I went into investigations. I am interested in the factors that cause people to commit crimes. Through the use of a social and psychological approach, I wanted to be a part of developing a society that was more peaceful and respectful of others."

"There are few jobs in the Air Force where you can quantify the results of your work. This job will bring about challenges, setbacks, and success that will allow me to help maintain the integrity of the Air Force. I have the motivation, discipline, and skills to contribute to the fight against fraud."

What makes you a stand-out criminal investigator?

"I will strive to be a stand-out criminal investigator by being observant, asking the right questions, and seeking out guidance from investigators more seasoned than me. I want to learn everything I can on the job, so one thing that will set me apart is that I will not come into an investigation with an ego. I will come to work to learn and grow."

The hiring authority would like to know what qualities make you the best criminal investigator for them. Take some time to research common characteristics among investigators, being sure to let the interviewer know that you possess these qualities yourself. Some ways to be a stand-out investigator include having strong problem-solving capabilities. You are observant, detail-oriented, and an excellent communicator. Besides these typical answers, be sure to give some memorable and specific reasoning.

Review the job announcement and search for keywords the organization used to define the qualities they are looking for in a criminal investigator. Then, focus your answer on those characteristics mentioned in the job posting. You want the interviewer to see that you have all the qualities they are looking for in their ideal candidate.

Now is your time to sell yourself to the interviewer by describing the skills that make you an exceptional criminal investigator. If you do not have experience as a criminal investigator, describe the qualities you have that will make you succeed in this role. Avoid being modest or downplaying your abilities and expertise.

"What makes me a stand-out criminal investigator is the fact that I am curious and driven by an unshakable need for answers. I have a lot of experience and training in investigative and interrogation techniques, making me a well-rounded investigator who never stops digging for deeper answers. I look forward to joining your agency, lending my relentless drive and an analytical approach to your esteemed team."

What are your long-term career goals as a criminal investigator?

"My immediate goal is to complete my certification in criminal justice and join your reputable agency where I can gain solid footing as I begin my investigative career. My long-term goal is to climb in rank and responsibility at a steady pace. I will achieve this through working hard, continuing my education, gaining further specializations, and allowing myself to be taught and mentored by the investigators senior to me."

The interviewer wants to see that you have a long-term interest in a career as an investigator. With this question, it is essential that your enthusiasm is genuine and that you are as specific as possible when it comes to the goals you aim to achieve throughout your career. Be as detailed as you can, outlining where you want to see your career take you in the years to come.

Focus your answer on where you see yourself within the organization you are interviewing with, emphasizing the steps you will take to reach your goals. The interviewer wants to know that you are motivated, set professional goals for yourself, and have a plan to achieve your goals.

If you want to land this job, you want to avoid saying you see yourself with another organization or starting your own company in the long term. Companies pay a lot of money interviewing, hiring, and training employees, and they do not want to see that you will take that experience and go elsewhere.

"My long-term career goal is to become a specialist in financial crimes. I will achieve this goal by continuing my education, including online coursework related to this specialization. This specialization will allow me to take on a wide range of cases, earn larger promotions, and be in higher demand. I am invested in my career as an investigator, and I look forward to reaching my goals within your organization."

In three words, how would you best describe your investigative style?

"I would describe my investigative style as purposeful, organized, and systematic. I was trained in and follow the five C's, which are collecting, checking, considering, connecting, and constructing. Following this framework allows me to remain well organized and focused as I grow in my investigative career. With that said, I am open and willing to learn other methodologies and approaches. I look forward to learning more as I grow with your organization."

The interviewer would like to tap into your style regarding investigative thinking. They want to know more about how you approach and understand your work. When the hiring authority can understand your investigative style, they will also better determine if your style fits their existing teams.

Suppose you say your investigative style is meticulous, organized, and systematic. Instead of leaving it at that, you will want to expand on each of those words explaining how you are meticulous, organized, and systematic. Focus on listing three words to describe your investigative style, then back up those words with examples.

Since the hiring authority specifically asked for three words, you want to avoid giving more or less than three words to describe your investigative style. The interviewer wants to see that you pay attention when others speak and can follow directions.

"I am driven by challenges and describe my investigative style as focused, methodical, and creative. I can think outside of the box to see a full picture of the job, the crime, the victim, and the criminal. I like to develop information and entertain various scenarios."

As a criminal investigator, clear documentation and reporting are critical. How are your written communication skills?

"I have above average written communication skills compared to my classmates. I base my response on feedback I received throughout my post-secondary career, primarily from professors. For this reason, I describe my written communication skills as clear, concise, and thorough."

Being a strong communicator, in written form, is an essential skill to master as a criminal investigator. Some ways to describe your written communication skills could be articulate, crisp, detailed, or concise. Whatever words you choose to represent your written communication skills, be sure to showcase that your documentation, reports, and files are always up to date and clearly outlined. Talk to the interviewer about your written communication abilities and support your answer with a case or story.

Instead of describing your written communication skills in one word, such as excellent, focus on providing two or three descriptive words. When you offer several words to describe your communication skills, the interviewer will better understand how you communicate in written form.

The hiring authority wants a criminal investigator who is detailed and precise in their written reports. If you say that you have poor written communication skills, the interviewer may be concerned about hiring you for the position. Instead, make a plan to work on improving these skills. You can then tell the interviewer that while your written communication skills are strong, you are taking action to improve your skills since there is always room for improvement in any profession.

"I describe my written communication skills as informative and easy to digest. I like to use bullet points to make the important reading points obvious to the recipient. As a seasoned investigator, I have developed strong written communication skills over the years. I spend a lot of time working on various investigative teams and have to be able to communicate clearly through the written word for the times I may not be present to explain my reasoning or findings."

What would your coworkers say about your attention to detail?

"I have been working a lot on my attention to detail this past year of university. I am meticulous, but I have pushed assignments and papers back a little too far, resulting in careless mistakes in the past. Time management is something that I have been working diligently to improve. I submitted near-perfect work in my latest group project, something my fellow students were pleased to benefit from."

Attention to detail is incredibly crucial for a criminal investigator, especially when it comes time to keep accurate records, write extensive reports, and maintain case files used in court. Talk to the interviewer about your level of attentiveness when it comes to the smaller details. The interviewer wants to hear that you have this characteristic to see that you will fit their team. Give your response, and then support your reply with a real-life example.

If you do not feel that your coworkers would say that you have meticulous attention to detail, focus on describing how you are improving in this area. During your background investigation before being hired, the interviewer may ask your former employer and coworkers this question, so you want to be honest and transparent.

You want to avoid saying that your coworkers would say you have high attention to detail if you don't. Suppose the interviewer talks to former coworkers during your background investigation, and they find out you do not have attention to detail. In that case, they will determine you were being dishonest in your interview.

"I have a well-honed ability to point out discrepancies in my work and catch most anything before it reaches the desk of a coworker or my superior. Being an investigator for several years, I have had the opportunity to streamline many processes, which I believe saves me time and ensures I do not need to rush my work. I believe my coworkers would say that my attention to detail is impeccable. In fact, they often come to me when their work needs a second set of eyes."

What is the worst thing a previous supervisor could say about you?

"Last semester, a professor told me I needed to thicken up my skin when it comes to mistakes occurring on projects. Occasionally, setbacks can dampen my mood. I know that I need to work on taking setbacks in stride. I have already improved on this feedback by telling myself to find the lesson in the situation and then moving forward to a solution right away."

Nobody is perfect, so it's okay to answer this question with some transparency. Think about some mistakes you have made at work or any suggestions for improvement received. If a supervisor were to provide you with feedback or criticism, think of what might they say. Keep your answer brief, and be sure to discuss your willingness to improve and take constructive feedback.

Focus on showing the interviewer that you accept and encourage feedback. The interviewer wants to see that you welcome constructive feedback and use it as an opportunity for professional growth.

You want the conversation to remain positive, so avoid discussing any characteristics that would make you ineligible for the job or raise red flags for the interviewer. Discuss an area of improvement that most interviewers can identify with, showing that you are only human but willing to improve.

"The most critical thing a supervisor has said to me is my need to slow down and stop chomping at the bit for the next big thing. I always have my eyes on the prize for the next position to move up the ranks. I know it's great to be goal-oriented and driven, but I also needed someone to tell me to slow down and truly learn all of the foundational tasks and strategies as a criminal investigator. Today, while I am always planning for the future, I am more focused on building a strong foundation for my career."

What do you find to be the most difficult part of being a criminal investigator?

"From the experienced Investigators that I have talked to, I believe that the most difficult part of this job will first be building a reputable name for myself in the industry. I will dig deep and remain confident in my skills and findings. I will find a helpful mentor and will also take continued education opportunities as they arise."

When the hiring authority knows what you find to be the most challenging aspect of your work, they can better understand where to place you and with what type of team members. The more specific and detailed you can be, the better. Take a minute to discuss with the interviewer what you find to be most challenging in your work as an investigator. Avoid having a negative tone to your response by explaining what you are doing to improve in this particular area of your work.

You want to focus your answer on how you work through the most challenging part of your job. After describing the most difficult part of working as a criminal investigator, explain how you manage to keep moving forward, ending on a positive note.

You want to avoid describing the most challenging part of working as a criminal investigator as something that could preclude the interviewer from hiring you. For example, if you describe the most difficult part of your job as talking to suspects and witnesses, you may not be offered the position since that is an essential job duty.

"As a criminal investigator with over 20 years of experience, I say that my work hours and schedule remain the most challenging part of the job. Crime does not have a 9-5, Monday to Friday mindset. I often find myself working back-to-back shifts to meet the critical needs of an investigation. There can be intense pressure to finish reports while caseloads continue to build. These situations can be emotionally draining; however, I combat this by eyeing the prize and visualizing how great it will feel when I close the case on a file. I find my work to be incredibly rewarding, no matter the workload I face."

For you, what is the most rewarding and motivating part of being a criminal investigator?

"While gaining my degree in criminal justice, I have come across a plethora of fascinating case studies. I have learned skills and investigative methods that I am very eager to apply. I believe the most rewarding part of being a criminal investigator is knowing I am doing my part to keep my family and my community as safe as possible."

On the most demanding days as a criminal investigator, reflect on what drives you. The hiring authority would like to know the source of your motivation and job satisfaction. Be sure to show a lot of enthusiasm for your work when you answer this question. If you are new to your career, be ready to discuss what you believe will be your biggest positive driver.

Focus on showing your enthusiasm when responding to this question. You want the interviewer to know that you are genuinely passionate about your work. The interviewer wants to hear the passion in your voice and see the excitement on your face.

You want to avoid giving the interviewer reason to believe you are not passionate about your career as a criminal investigator. If you do not show excitement and enthusiasm when responding, the interviewer will think that you are burnt out or are in this type of industry for the wrong reasons.

"The most rewarding aspect of being a criminal investigator, for me, is the involvement in bettering the lives of my community by identifying culprits of the crime. Also, continuous learning is very motivating. Lately, I have been learning a great deal about cybercrime investigation and prevention. There is always more to learn as the world advances in terms of technology."

What qualities should a good criminal investigator possess?

"In addition to high levels of honesty and ethics, I believe that a criminal investigator should have the ability to control their emotions completely. Investigators often face issues that are difficult to absorb as people are victimized, and details are challenging to hear. I have developed the ability to remain empathetic and to control feelings of anger that may arise when hearing of these types of situations. I know as my experience grows, so will my capacity to control my emotions."

There are many skills a criminal investigator should possess to be successful in the workplace. For starters, an investigator should be an exceptional communicator, able to problem solve, and think critically. An investigator should have a strong knowledge of the law so that they can address questions and issues from multiple angles. Talk to the interviewer about the qualities you feel are most important, and be sure to outline the fact that you possess these yourself.

Review the job description before your interview. You can find qualities the hiring authority is looking for in a criminal investigator and use some of those keywords in your response. Focus on giving three or four qualities or skills a criminal investigator should possess. Since there are many desirable traits to being a good investigator, this should not be difficult to do.

You want to avoid giving qualities that do not align with being a Criminal Investigator or are not written in the job description. The hiring authority wrote specific traits they are looking for in their job description, so using those keywords in your response shows the interviewer you are the candidate they are looking for.

"I believe the top qualities for a criminal investigator to possess include organization, a strong sense of self, high levels of integrity, and confidence. I have further developed these skills over my years as an investigator and continue to build upon them every day."

How will you build rapport with your fellow investigators?

"I am a naturally curious person, which means that I often build a rapport with people by asking them questions about themselves. I like to know about their career path, personal interests, biggest career wins, and how they got to where they are today. Most people enjoy talking about themselves, so this approach is usually a very successful one when it comes to building rapport with new people."

The interviewer would like to know your methods for getting to know your new team. When you have a great relationship with fellow investigators, you will be more successful in your work and more likely to stay with their organization or agency for the long term. You can begin to build rapport with your new colleagues by sticking to your word and doing what you say you will. You should try to get to know them and the valuable knowledge they have to offer.

Focus your answer on methods that have worked for you in the past. If you are new to this profession, describe how you have built rapport with fellow students or colleagues in another industry.

You want to avoid saying that you do not feel it is important to build relationships with fellow investigators. Suppose you are a person who does not like building rapport with others. In that case, the interviewer will determine that you are not a team player and do not possess the interpersonal skills they are looking for in a criminal investigator.

"I have been an investigator for many years and understand that this industry and line of work attracts a huge range of personalities. To build relationships with a range of personalities, I ask people questions about themselves and their preferred approach to work. My coworkers need to be able to rely on me and feel 100% confident that I will deliver over and above their expectations at all times."

Have you taken any courses in reading body language?

"No, I have not taken any courses on reading body language yet, but I will learn about this skill next semester when attending college to receive my associate's degree. I have read a book on body language called 'The Definitive Book of Body Language,' which covered reading body language clues and how to adjust my body language when speaking with people. I found the book to be very informative and interesting, and I look forward to learning more in college."

Reading body language is an essential skill that criminal investigators need when interrogating suspects and talking with others during an investigation. The interviewer wants to hear if you have formal experience in reading body language or if you have plans on taking courses or reading books on body language. Describe any training you have on reading others' body language.

Focus your answer on specific courses you have taken, podcasts you listen to, or articles or books you have read on body language. The interviewer wants to hear that you are interested in learning about this essential skill used in investigations.

If you have not taken any courses in reading body language, you want to avoid saying you have. If you say you have taken courses in body language, the interviewer may ask questions about what you learned. It is always best to be 100% candid in interviews as the interviewer will find out if you were dishonest, disqualifying you from being offered the position.

"Yes, I took a course on reading body language when receiving my bachelor's degree in criminology five years ago. I also attended an online course two years ago that covered reading body language and the cultural and social influence of nonverbal clues. The course was very informative, and I learned many new aspects about body language and deception during interviews and interrogations."

Tell me about your post-secondary education, and how it relates to your career as a criminal investigator.

"I am a recent graduate of the criminal justice program at XYZ University, focusing on criminal investigations. Some of my favorite classes include investigations practice, crime scenes, and forensics & evidence. These courses helped me immensely when it came to collecting, recording, and analyzing evidence. Because of my formal post-secondary education, I walked into my internship with the utmost confidence. I feel well prepared to begin my career and am enthusiastic about expanding upon these building blocks."

Whether you have many years of experience or are a recent graduate, your investigation knowledge should be one of the keys to your career success. Take a few moments to bring your education to life for the interviewer. Talk about the coursework you took, where you excelled, what was most interesting for you, and how it all ties into your career as a criminal investigator.

If you received a degree or certifications in a specific area, be sure to focus on describing the degrees, certificates, and any other accolades pertaining to criminal investigations. You want the interviewer to understand that you have the educational background needed for the job.

You want to avoid saying you have a degree or certifications in an area if you do not. The interviewer may ask for transcripts or copies of your educational achievements, so you must be truthful. If you are working towards a degree that will help you as a Criminal Investigator, describe how much longer you have until your coursework is completed.

"I have a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from ABC University with a major in corrections. Although I completed this education many years ago, it is the foundation for my success as a seasoned investigator. Some of my coursework included correctional administration and documentation, criminal law, juvenile justice, and theories of crime causation. Since graduating, I have taken additional coursework in interrogations, cybercrime, and digital evidence collection."

What can you tell me about our organization?

"Your organization is one of the largest in the state with a jurisdiction of over 2,700 square miles and a population of 543,000 community members. The organization is led by Sheriff-Coroner Bob Hutchings, who was elected into office in 2001. The criminal investigations unit is divided into three bureaus: the Criminal Investigations Bureau, the Special Investigations Bureau, and the Judicial Services Bureau. What stood out to me the most when researching your organization are your five core values, which align with mine: integrity, caring, courage, fairness, and service."

The interviewer asks this question to see if you have done your research before the interview. Before any interview, you want to research the organization and find out all you can. Research every page on their website, visit the agency, speak with employees, and closely review the job announcement. Then, briefly describe what you have learned about their organization.

If you found something unique about the organization, focus on bringing up that noteworthy fact in your response. Give a brief description of the organization, highlighting the name of the CEO or person in charge, mission statement, when the organization was founded, the number of employees, what community they serve, and any other interesting facts you discovered.

You want to avoid being unprepared to answer the question. If you fail to do your research, the interviewer will question your investigative skills and determine that you may not be a motivated employee or lack attention to detail if hired.

"Your 'Division of Criminal Investigations' employs over 1,000 personnel, including investigators, agents, office staff, programmers, and instructors. Founded in 1854, your organization was one of the first law enforcement agencies developed to prevent crime and disorder. The criminal investigations division is run by Brian Lockhart and is divided into six bureaus covering investigations, narcotics, crime information, special services, POST training, and the law enforcement academy."

This concludes our interview. Do you have any questions for me?

"Yes, I do have a few questions for you, and I appreciate you asking. If hired, what bureau would I be assigned, and what is the size of the team I would be working with?"

The interviewer wants to ensure that all of your questions about the job role or the organization are answered before leaving the interview. It is best to ask a question or two, showing the interviewer that you are eager to learn all you can about the organization or the role you would be filling if hired.

The questions you ask should be focused on the specific job you applied to or the company culture. Any questions you ask should not be ones that could be answered by reading the company website or reviewing the job announcement, as it shows you lack attention to detail and that you did not thoroughly research the company.

Avoid asking questions about the salary or benefits package. Most agencies post the salary range and job benefits on the job announcement, so that information should already have been provided to you. If there will be negotiations surrounding the salary, often that will be mentioned in the interview or during a meeting with human resources when offered the position.

"Thank you for asking. Yes, I do have a question for you. If I have done well in this interview and move forward in the hiring process, how long does the background check typically take?"

What are the core responsibilities of a criminal investigator?

"From my understanding, as a new investigator, the bulk of my responsibilities will be collecting evidence, documenting cases, sorting through paper and digital evidence, calling upon leads, arranging interviews, and helping senior investigators with documentation. Is this an accurate depiction of the expectations for this role?"

The interviewer is checking to see if you have a solid understanding of a criminal investigator's role. If you are an experienced investigator, you can talk about the fundamental responsibilities in your job and the expectations placed on you at work. If you are new to your career, be sure to mention the duties outlined in the job description for which you are interviewing.

Review the job announcement and search for keywords the organization used to define the job duties or responsibilities. Then, focus your answer on those responsibilities mentioned in the job posting. You want the interviewer to see that you understand the job duties and thoroughly read the job posting.

You want to avoid responding with traits or qualities a criminal investigator should possess. The interviewer specifically asked for the core responsibilities as a criminal investigator.

"The core responsibilities in my current position include collecting evidence, analyzing the evidence, and interviewing witnesses as well as suspects. I take on a heavy caseload every year and spend a lot of time collaborating with Investigators on these cases. I often have new Investigators shadowing me, so part of my responsibilities includes mentoring and teaching others. Of course, documentation is a significant part of my role."

What do you know about our community and the criminal activity present here?

"I have lived in this community for most of my life and understand that a lot of the local crime is seasonal, as this area attracts many tourists and events. Through my research, I also found that organized crime and drug-related crime have increased over the past four years. I am specializing in narcotics and believe that this specialization will be of great value should I be selected to join your agency."

As an Investigator, you must understand the crime demographics related to the area where you will be working. When an investigator can identify crime rates and crime types, it makes the job of law enforcement much clearer. As an investigator, having this knowledge will be critical to your success. Show the interviewer that you have done your research and are well prepared to be a valuable addition to their team.

Focus your answer on the specific research you have performed and the data you have discovered. The interviewer wants to hear that you spent time doing your homework and understand the problems the community faces. By conducting research and viewing the crime statistics, the interviewer will see that you have the investigative skills they are looking for in a criminal investigator.

You want to avoid being unprepared to answer this question. If you cannot answer this question, the interviewer will determine that you lack the motivation to learn all you can about the community you will serve and may not have the investigative skills they need in an Investigator.

"Before applying to your organization, I performed a great amount of research on this community's crime factors, including drug trafficking, fraud, hate crimes, human trafficking, property theft, and violence. I found that theft has gone down in your area over the past five years; however, violence has increased. I am ready to help meet the needs of this community and drive all of these factors down, further supporting the safety of this great community."

Do you consider yourself a leader?

"I have qualities that will make me a good leader in the future, once I have more experience in my investigative career. I am a keen listener, and I understand how to look at the big picture without losing momentum with small tasks. I enjoy coaching others and am an advocate for continued learning."

Investigators often need to take the lead on the job, ensuring that tasks are met with authority and urgency. The interviewer wants to see that you have a natural ability to lead others. Whether you have led a group of 500 or a team of 2, you must display the capability to handle the responsibility of being a leader and mentor. If you have never held a formal leadership role, talk about a time you have unofficially led a group, encouraged your counterparts, or been the face of a project.

Focus on giving examples of your leadership qualities. The interviewer wants to hear what you consider a leader and how you inspire those around you. If you do not have much experience in a leadership role, describe how you look forward to growing into a leadership capacity with on-the-job experience, taking leadership courses, or reading books on developing these qualities.

If you do not consider yourself a leader, avoid telling the interviewer that you do not have leadership qualities. Even if you do not feel comfortable as a leader, you will need to strengthen your leadership skills to succeed as a criminal investigator. A better response would be that you are inexperienced as a leader and describe the measures you will take to improve those skills.

"I do see myself as a leader. I currently oversee three junior investigators and some administrative staff. I guide team meetings, disseminate information, monitor performance, approve scheduling, and debrief my team. I have managed people for many years, but I believe that leadership does not always equate to management. I am sure to lead at all times by providing the best model of discretion and work ethic."

What methods do you deploy in order to properly read people and behavioral indicators?

"I learned a lot about indicators during my criminal psychology coursework and a bit about nonverbal behaviors. Many emotions are communicated through facial expressions and the tone of voice, as well as gestures. Often, people under stress attempt to hide their feelings, and then they begin to express themselves differently with nonverbal behaviors. I plan to look carefully for signals such as over-blinking, speech rates, and active attempts to regulate emotions unnaturally."

As a criminal investigator, it is essential that you can read others, either while questioning and interrogating or even in a simple everyday interaction. If you are interviewing the suspect of a crime, you should be able to identify specific behavioral markers associated with lying. The interviewer wants to hear what particular methods you use to help determine if you will be a good fit for the team.

If you have a law, criminology, or psychology background, you will likely have formal training to read people and behavioral indicators correctly. Talk to the interviewer about what you look for in these instances, focusing on the methods you have been trained to use.

You want to avoid saying that you do not have methods you consistently use. As a criminal investigator, you should have a style developed when interviewing and interrogating individuals.

"As a seasoned investigator, I understand the importance of behavioral anomalies and what they mean. I look for a series of both verbal and nonverbal signs to determine if they align well with what the person is saying. In an investigation, I will look for exaggerated facial movements, wringing of the hands, lack of eye contact, and accuracy of facts, for starters. If I sense an irregularity in facts, I will dig deeper into that topic to see if the person starts to give contradicting information."

Think about a difficult superior or fellow investigator. How did you successfully interact with this person?

"I have been exposed to a variety of personalities during my university career. I am a warm person by nature and have found it challenging to connect with those professors who were 'matter of fact' and a bit standoffish. My former criminology professor was this way, so I adapted by sticking solely to the facts when giving answers and presenting data versus opinions. It wasn't the most profound relationship that I built during my time in post-secondary, but I did learn some valuable communication lessons."

In your field of work, you will come across many people with different characteristics. You must show the interviewer that you can successfully interact with people who may have challenging personalities. Think about that one person at work who is tough to please. Perhaps there is someone at work who tries to intimidate others. Or maybe they are not a team player. If possible, give a specific example, highlighting how you turned the situation around and made it work.

Focus your answer on how you can work with diverse personalities and how a challenging person does not interfere with your ability to perform your work. The interviewer wants to hear that you can positively interact with those who are difficult to work with.

The industry can be tight-knit, so stay classy and avoid speaking poorly of anyone. When you speak poorly of others, the interviewer will determine that you talk behind others' backs and may not interact well with others. Be sure to end your response on a positive note, showing how you are a team player and easy to work with.

"One of the most difficult people I've worked with was a supervisor when I was a new investigator. She was notoriously difficult on the newbies, but I took this on as a challenge. I gave myself incremental goals along the way, small checkpoints gaining even the smallest amount of positive reinforcement from her. I made it a fun challenge for myself. Ultimately, I did win her over, and she is someone I consider a mentor even today."

Tell me about a time when you made a tough ethical decision.

"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."

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.

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.

"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."

Investigator Interview Questions

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1. Tell me about your most challenging criminal investigation.
2. How do you withstand the ethical dilemmas associated with this unique type of work?
3. How do you react to an increase in your investigative workload?
4. How do you handle the stress and pressure of being a criminal investigator?
5. How do you react when the outcome of a case is discouraging?
6. When an investigation suffers a setback, what is your initial reaction?
7. What is your weakest characteristic, and what are you doing to improve on it?
8. Our agency performs a thorough, pre-employment background check on all candidates. What is the worst thing that will show up during your background investigation?
9. This position requires random drug testing twice a year. Do you have an issue with random drug testing?
10. Some cases require you to work long hours. Do you have an issue working long hours when needed?
11. Occasionally, our investigative team will travel to pursue evidence or a suspect. Do you have an issue with traveling when needed?
12. Are you a trustworthy person?
13. Are you able to communicate with people from all walks of life?
14. Are you able to work with minimal supervision?
15. Do you have much experience testifying in court?
16. How perceptive are you?
17. How do you stay current with changes in this industry?
18. Do you have formal training in interrogations?
19. What do you like to do in your free time?
20. Why did you choose to become a criminal investigator?
21. What makes you a stand-out criminal investigator?
22. What are your long-term career goals as a criminal investigator?
23. In three words, how would you best describe your investigative style?
24. As a criminal investigator, clear documentation and reporting are critical. How are your written communication skills?
25. What would your coworkers say about your attention to detail?
26. What is the worst thing a previous supervisor could say about you?
27. What do you find to be the most difficult part of being a criminal investigator?
28. For you, what is the most rewarding and motivating part of being a criminal investigator?
29. What qualities should a good criminal investigator possess?
30. How will you build rapport with your fellow investigators?
31. Have you taken any courses in reading body language?
32. Tell me about your post-secondary education, and how it relates to your career as a criminal investigator.
33. What can you tell me about our organization?
34. This concludes our interview. Do you have any questions for me?
35. What are the core responsibilities of a criminal investigator?
36. What do you know about our community and the criminal activity present here?
37. Do you consider yourself a leader?
38. What methods do you deploy in order to properly read people and behavioral indicators?
39. Think about a difficult superior or fellow investigator. How did you successfully interact with this person?
40. Tell me about a time when you made a tough ethical decision.

Investigator Interview Questions

1. Tell me about your most challenging criminal investigation.

2. How do you withstand the ethical dilemmas associated with this unique type of work?

3. How do you react to an increase in your investigative workload?

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

5. How do you react when the outcome of a case is discouraging?

6. When an investigation suffers a setback, what is your initial reaction?

7. What is your weakest characteristic, and what are you doing to improve on it?

8. Our agency performs a thorough, pre-employment background check on all candidates. What is the worst thing that will show up during your background investigation?

9. This position requires random drug testing twice a year. Do you have an issue with random drug testing?

10. Some cases require you to work long hours. Do you have an issue working long hours when needed?

11. Occasionally, our investigative team will travel to pursue evidence or a suspect. Do you have an issue with traveling when needed?

12. Are you a trustworthy person?

13. Are you able to communicate with people from all walks of life?

14. Are you able to work with minimal supervision?

15. Do you have much experience testifying in court?

16. How perceptive are you?

17. How do you stay current with changes in this industry?

18. Do you have formal training in interrogations?

19. What do you like to do in your free time?

20. Why did you choose to become a criminal investigator?

21. What makes you a stand-out criminal investigator?

22. What are your long-term career goals as a criminal investigator?

23. In three words, how would you best describe your investigative style?

24. As a criminal investigator, clear documentation and reporting are critical. How are your written communication skills?

25. What would your coworkers say about your attention to detail?

26. What is the worst thing a previous supervisor could say about you?

27. What do you find to be the most difficult part of being a criminal investigator?

28. For you, what is the most rewarding and motivating part of being a criminal investigator?

29. What qualities should a good criminal investigator possess?

30. How will you build rapport with your fellow investigators?

31. Have you taken any courses in reading body language?

32. Tell me about your post-secondary education, and how it relates to your career as a criminal investigator.

33. What can you tell me about our organization?

34. This concludes our interview. Do you have any questions for me?

35. What are the core responsibilities of a criminal investigator?

36. What do you know about our community and the criminal activity present here?

37. Do you consider yourself a leader?

38. What methods do you deploy in order to properly read people and behavioral indicators?

39. Think about a difficult superior or fellow investigator. How did you successfully interact with this person?

40. Tell me about a time when you made a tough ethical decision.