30 SIU Investigator Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our SIU Investigator interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Behavioral
1. What is your greatest strength as an SIU investigator?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear about your greatest strength as an SIU investigator to determine if you have the qualities they are looking for. Review the job description before your interview and look for keywords the agency used to describe its ideal candidate. Then, choose one of those keywords that you have identified as your greatest strength, showing the interviewer that you have the characteristics they are looking for.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Suppose the job description says the agency seeks an experienced SIU investigator with strong communication and analytical skills to work in a leadership position. In that case, describe your greatest strength as either your experience or your communication, analytical, or leadership skills. Focus on using a keyword in the job description so the interviewer can see that you have one of the qualities they are looking for in their ideal candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
Most job descriptions use several keywords to describe the qualities they are looking for in their ideal candidate. Avoid using a strength that is not in the job announcement or that is not related to the job of SIU investigator. The interviewer wants to hear that your strength is a quality they seek in a candidate and that you will benefit the company if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest strength as an SIU investigator is my analytical thinking skills. I can take complex problems, analyze and extract data, think critically, and resolve the issues identified. I have over ten years of experience honing these skills."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Behavioral
2. Would you describe yourself as detail-oriented?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As an SIU investigator, you must be detail-oriented. You will be responsible for conducting interviews, writing reports, analyzing claims and underwriting data, and performing complex investigations. The interviewer wants to hear that you pay attention to detail to see that you will be an excellent addition to their team.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you have a letter of recommendation or performance review from a previous employer that describes your attention to detail, be sure to let the interviewer know when responding to this question. When a former employer or supervisor comments on your attention to detail, it carries a bit more weight than when you describe yourself. If you do not have a letter or performance review, give an example of why you consider yourself a detail-oriented person.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
To be considered for the position, you want to avoid saying that you are not detail-oriented. The interviewer does not want to hire an SIU investigator that may miss the smallest details or whose work may need correcting. If minor details are missed, it could cost the agency money and its reputation.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I would describe myself as detail-oriented. I pride myself on my ability to catch even the slightest of errors in reports and to remember the smallest details when interviewing participants, witnesses, and claimants. My attention to detail has helped solve many cases where my colleagues were unable to do so."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Behavioral
3. How do you handle a dispute with a coworker or supervisor?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is not uncommon for coworkers or supervisors to have a dispute or disagreement with someone they work with. The interviewer knows this and wants to see how you have handled disputes in the past. How you respond gives the interviewer insight into your problem-solving, communication, and conflict resolution skills, which are essential skills to possess as an SIU investigator.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on giving a detailed explanation of how you handled a past disagreement with a supervisor or coworker. You do not necessarily need to describe the reason for the dispute, just how you dealt with it. The interviewer wants to hear that you dealt with the conflict privately, calmly, and maturely and that there was a resolution.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
You do not want to say that you avoid or ignore disagreements or get angry when a dispute arises in the workplace. The interviewer does not want to hear that you lack conflict resolution and communication skills. You also want to avoid speaking poorly of the person you had the dispute with or placing the blame solely on the other individual. You need to be responsible and recognize your part in the conflict.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"Fortunately, I have only had one dispute in my career with a coworker. I handled it by recognizing we had an issue and asked my coworker to speak in private. I calmly asked him why he thought we had a conflict and what we could do to resolve the issue. It turns out there was a misunderstanding in our respective job duties, and my coworker thought I was trying to undermine his position. Once we cleared up who was responsible for each job responsibility, we never had an issue again."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Behavioral
4. What is your greatest weakness, and what are you doing to improve?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear about your greatest weakness as an SIU investigator to see that you are self-aware and can identify an area that needs improvement. When you admit you have a deficiency in a particular aspect of your profession and take steps to improve, it shows the interviewer that you are motivated and inspired to grow professionally.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on a weakness related to your profession, but not one that is an essential job duty. For example, suppose you say your weakness is your verbal communication skills. In that case, the interviewer may pass you over for another candidate since that skill is an essential part of being an excellent SIU investigator.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid describing a weakness that is a crucial responsibility as an SIU investigator or one that is not work-related. The interviewer wants to hear what weakness in your profession you have identified and how you plan to improve.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest weakness as an SIU investigator is my lack of experience reading body language. I understand some clues but would like to learn more. I have enrolled in an online body language course taught by a retired FBI profiler and have purchased books on reading body language. In the two weeks I have been studying, I have already learned valuable information to help me with my investigations. I believe after taking the course and finishing the books, this weakness will turn into a strength."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Direct
5. Besides vacation and holiday time, how many days were you absent from work last year?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The company wants to hire an SIU investigator who is responsible and dependable and who shows up to work when scheduled. The interviewer asks this question to evaluate your work attendance in the past year. If you called off work many times in the past year, they might hesitate to offer you the position unless your reasons were excusable.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on giving the exact number of days you missed work and why. If the interviewer deems your absence from work an excused and unavoidable reason to miss work, it will likely not be an issue. If you have many unexcused absences, they may disqualify you as a viable candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid saying you cannot remember how often you missed work or answer truthfully. The interviewer will contact your former employer for a reference and ask them the same question. It is best to be honest and explain any absences from work in the past year, allowing the interviewer to decide if your reasons were unavoidable or not.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I was absent from work two days last year. I missed one day because my son had strep throat, and my husband was out of town. I needed to take my son to the doctor, and I called my supervisor and notified him two hours before my shift. I had a doctor's note, and my supervisor allowed me to use a sick day. The second day I missed was due to a minor vehicle accident. I was rear-ended on my way to work and went to the emergency room for evaluation. I called my supervisor from the accident scene, and he said to take off as much time as needed. I was fine and was able to return to work the next day."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Direct
6. Are you available to work weekends when needed?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As an SIU investigator, you must be flexible and available to work weekends, holidays, and overtime when needed. The interviewer asks this question to see that you are a team player and dedicated to your profession.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on assuring the interviewer you understand the nature of the business and that working weekends is part of the job. Let them know that you are flexible with your schedule and willing to work whatever hours they need, including weekends.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you want to be considered for the position, it is best to avoid saying that you cannot work weekends without explaining why. If you have a personal obligation such as caring for a child or family member on the weekends, describe your situation to the interviewer and explain how you will look for help with your child or family member on the weekends you need to work. If you are honest in the interview, the interviewer will understand if there are some weekends you might not be able to work.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I am available to work weekends when needed. I understand the nature of this industry and have no problem working weekends and holidays if needed. I have joint custody of my children and have them every other weekend. If I must work a weekend when I have them, I have friends who I can call on to help watch them while I work."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Direct
7. We require all candidates to submit to a pre-employment drug screen. Will there be an issue passing the drug screen?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer advises you of their pre-employment drug screen and asks if you'll pass, so they can decide if they want to continue with you in the hiring process. Agencies invest a lot of money hiring employees, and they want to avoid sending you for a drug test if you will not pass.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
As with any interview question, you want to focus on being completely honest in your response. As embarrassing as it may be, if you do not think you will pass the drug test, you need to let the interviewer know that now. If passing the drug test will not be an issue, ensure the interviewer that you will pass the test because you do not use drugs.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
If passing a drug test will be an issue for you, it is best to wait until you are clean to apply to an SIU investigator job. Many agencies require a pre-employment background investigation and drug test, so you must pass both to work in this profession.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"No, there will not be an issue with passing a drug test. I do not use drugs and never plan to."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Direct
8. This position requires out of town travel at times. Will traveling be a problem for you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
If the interviewer asks this question, they want to ensure you know the job requirements regarding travel and make sure that will not be an issue if hired. Often, SIU investigators will need to travel to attend work-related conferences or work on an investigation. If traveling is one of the job requirements, the agency should have put that in the job description, so it should not surprise you in the interview.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on assuring the interviewer that traveling will not be an issue when required. Emphasize how you enjoy traveling to new places and how you do not have outside obligations that prohibit you from doing so.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you want to be considered for the position, avoid saying that you cannot travel when needed. The interviewer wants to hire someone flexible and accommodating with the work schedule. If traveling would be an issue for you, explain why. For example, you might care for an elderly relative or have childcare issues. If you have a valid reason for not traveling, the interviewer can then decide how to proceed in the hiring process.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"No, traveling will not be a problem. I enjoy traveling and meeting new people and look forward to the opportunity to do so with your agency."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Direct
9. We require all candidates to submit to a background investigation. What will be the worst thing we find in your background check?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Many agencies will require their SIU investigator candidates to undergo a background investigation before being offered a job. The interviewer wants a heads up to see the worst thing they will find in your investigation to determine if they should move forward in the hiring process. If you have a violation or charge in your background, the interviewer will decide if the offense is severe enough to disqualify you as a candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
When responding to this question, focus on thinking back to any disputes you had with a neighbor, poor credit, tickets or citations, criminal or civil charges, arrests, drug use, or family members who have been in trouble with the law. Most background investigations are in-depth, and investigators will discover everything about you. If you have something troubling in your past, this is your opportunity to tell the interviewer what they will find and explain the situation.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
As with any interview question, honesty is the best policy. Avoid telling the interviewer that there will be nothing terrible found during the background investigation if there is something they will discover. Even if you had something expunged from your record or the record was sealed, most investigators will still find out what happened in your past.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"The worst thing you will find in my background check is a speeding ticket I had 10 years ago. I was going 10 miles per hour over the speed limit on the freeway and was cited. I paid my fine and have not sped since."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Direct
10. Do you have a valid driver's license and a good driving record?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Most job announcements for SIU investigators list a valid driver's license and a good driving record as required in the job description. As an SIU investigator, you will be required to drive to meet claimants, witnesses, and suspects as part of your investigation. You will also need to go to court to testify in court proceedings and to meet with law enforcement during an investigation. The interviewer asks this question to ensure you meet their requirements and be safe and legal driving their company vehicle.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on saying that you have a valid driver's license with a good driving record, tell them in what state, and the expiration date. If you do not have a license, explain to the interviewer that you understand it is part of the job requirement and describe where you are in the process of obtaining one.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you do not have a valid driver's license or have a bad driving record, avoid saying you have a valid license and a clean driving record. The interviewer will want a copy of your license and driving record for their files and will not hire you if they discover you were dishonest in your interview.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I have a valid Nevada driver's license that expires in three years and a good driving record free from accidents or citations."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Discovery
11. What is your experience working as an SIU investigator?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The job announcement should say how many years of experience the company requires. The interviewer wants to hear about your experience to ensure you are qualified for the position. Give examples of how many years of experience you have and who you have worked with previously.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on highlighting the number of years of experience you have and what areas. Many employers require previous experience in insurance fraud investigations for a governmental agency, a public or private insurance carrier, or a private third-party administrator.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
You always want to have the minimum qualifications needed before applying for a job. If the job announcement says the company requires a minimum number of years of experience, avoid saying you have more experience than you do. The interviewer will contact references and determine that you were dishonest in the interview.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have worked as an SIU investigator for eight years. I worked for three years with Allstate Insurance as an SIU casualty investigator, investigating first and third-party bodily injury claims. I worked with Florida Peninsula Insurance as an SIU investigator II for the past five years. I was responsible for identifying and facilitating Anti-Fraud Awareness events and creating in-house fraud presentations for in-service staff meetings. Additional responsibilities included attending insurance fraud seminars and other company-sponsored courses and taking that information to create continuing education courses for the agency."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Discovery
12. What are your professional goals in the next five years?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question for two reasons. They want to see if you have professional goals and a plan to achieve them. When you set goals to improve and grow professionally, it shows that you are motivated and dedicated to your profession. The interviewer also wants to see if your goals include working for the company. Companies invest a lot of money and time to hire and train employees, and the interviewer wants to know that you will be a long-term employee if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing exactly what professional goals you have planned for the next five years and how you will achieve them. If you are new to the industry, you might want to concentrate on gaining experience and take continuing education courses. If you have been working as an SIU investigator for some time, you may plan on pursuing higher education or an administrative role. Be sure to highlight that you see yourself with the company in the next five years.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid saying you have not planned out that far in advance, that you want to go into private practice, or that you see yourself with another company in five years. If you do not have professional goals, the interviewer will determine that you are not motivated and inspired to grow as an SIU investigator. If your goal is to start your own practice or move onto another company, the interviewer may not want to invest time hiring and training a short-term employee.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"Since I am new to this field, my professional goals in the next five years are to get hired by your company and gain experience. I appreciate that your company offers on-the-job training, which is one reason I applied to your reputable organization. I want to gain experience in civil litigation and investigations by working with your seasoned investigators, attending industry conferences, and working on my continuing education hours."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Discovery
13. Do you have litigation experience?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Many SIU investigator job announcements will have 'litigation experience required' or 'litigation experience preferred' listed in the job responsibilities or job description. The interviewer asks this question to see if you have the skills they are looking for in an investigator. Litigation experience includes drafting motions, preparing witnesses, taking depositions, questioning potential jurors and witnesses, and attending conferences and settlement meetings.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you have litigation experience, focus on highlighting your years of experience and what parts of litigation you are most familiar with. If you do not have litigation experience, tell the interviewer that you do not have this experience, but you are eager to obtain knowledge in litigations.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you do not have experience in litigation, avoid saying that you do. If the interviewer hires you based on your experience, it will be obvious you do not have litigation experience when asked to perform specific litigation procedures.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I have seven years of civil litigation experience. I obtained my experience through an entry-level position in a law firm after receiving my bachelor's degree in criminal justice and used that valuable experience as an SIU investigator. I am comfortable with preliminary interviews, pre-trial motions, pleadings, discovery, preparing for trial, and the trial and post-trial motions and procedures."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Discovery
14. How would you describe your computer skills?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The company will list the computer skills required for the position in their job announcement. Some agencies require basic computer skills, while others require more advanced skills. The interviewer wants to see that you meet their requirement for the job.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Be sure to review the job announcement before your interview to understand the level of computer skills they require. Describe the software you are familiar with, explain how you are proficient in internet research and are familiar with the industry's database. Then, focus your answer on meeting or exceeding their requirement for the position.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying your computer skills are more advanced than they are. If hired, the interviewer will determine that you were not truthful in your interview if you have poor computer skills. If your computer skills need improvement, it is best to take computer classes, hire a tutor, or watch video tutorials to strengthen your skills before your interview.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I describe my computer skills as above average. I worked in IT for seven years, and have more than a basic knowledge of computers. I have a certificate as an expert in Microsoft Office Suites, emphasizing Microsoft Word and Excel. I am extremely good with researching information on the internet and am comfortable working with industry databases."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Discovery
15. What are the three top skills needed to be an excellent SIU investigator?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear that you have the qualities they are looking for in an SIU investigator. The interviewer asks this question to see what you believe are the top three skills needed to be an excellent SIU investigator. When you respond, the interviewer will determine that you have those skills yourself since you believe they are essential to possess in your profession.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on reviewing the job announcement before your interview and use three skills listed in the job description, describing the agency's ideal candidate. When you describe three skills needed as an SIU investigator mentioned in the job description, the interviewer will see that you have the qualities they are looking for. Be sure to say why these skills are essential to an investigator.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
Companies are typically very specific in their job description of what they seek in a candidate, and you want to show the interviewer you have the skills they need. Avoid using skills not mentioned in the job description as your top three skills. If you describe other skills that the company is not looking for, they may pass you over for another candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"After working as an SIU investigator for five years, I believe the top three skills one needs to be an excellent investigator are communication, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Written and verbal communication is essential when writing reports, documenting evidence and interviewing witnesses and suspects. Excellent SIU investigators are analytical thinkers and able to dissect complex problems, extract data, and problem solve."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Discovery
16. As an SIU investigator, what experience do you have training others?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer will ask this question if one of the job duties is to train others. It could be that your job would be to train coworkers, the community, or businesses on insurance fraud and scams that affect them. The interviewer wants to determine your experience and qualifications in a teaching capacity to see if you will be a good fit for their agency.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing the number of years of experience you have training others and in what capacity. Explain if you have trained and mentored new investigators, provided continuing education training, or trained businesses and the community in best practices to prevent fraud.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
This question applies to training others while working as an SIU investigator. Avoid describing training others in a different capacity unless you are a new SIU investigator with no prior experience. If that is the case, you can use an experience where you trained others as a coach, a tutor, or new employees at a previous job.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"As an SIU investigator at my previous employment, I was responsible for conducting technical training for the investigative staff for the past four years. I would attend industry-specific conferences and put together a presentation and training materials based on the information I received. I then held yearly continuing education classes for the staff and trained them on the current trends and investigative techniques in the industry."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Discovery
17. Have you ever testified in court? If so, how was your experience?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Testifying at court proceedings is one of the job duties of an SIU investigator, and the interviewer wants to hear about your experience. The interviewer asks this question to see if you have testified in court and how comfortable you were doing so. If you have never testified in court, be honest and say that you have not. Then, describe how you feel you will do well since you are comfortable speaking in public and have excellent communication skills.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you have testified in court, describe approximately how many times and your comfort level in doing so. It is normal to be nervous when testifying in court, but most SIU investigators become more confident and less anxious over time.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you have never testified in court, avoid saying that you have. The interviewer will find out when contacting your references, and you never want to be dishonest in an interview.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"As a new SIU investigator, I have never testified in court. However, I feel confident in my investigative skills and do not have an issue speaking in public. I have excellent communication and documentation skills, and feel those skills will help me when testifying in court for the first time."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Discovery
18. How do you stay up-to-date on the latest trends in your profession?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see how you stay up-to-date on the latest trends and techniques used by SIU investigators. There are publications, webinars, conferences, podcasts, in-person training, and continuing education courses to offer SIU investigators training in the latest issues and techniques confronting insurance fraud investigators. The interviewer wants to see that you take your profession seriously by staying current on the latest trends.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
When responding to this question, focus on describing all of the different ways you stay current in your industry. The more methods you have to keep up-to-date on the latest issues confronting SIU investigators, the better.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying you do not stay current on the latest trends. There are many different avenues available to keep current on the latest trends, and the interviewer wants to hear that you take advantage of the information that is out there. If you do not follow the industry trends, the interviewer will determine that you lack the passion and motivation to improve your knowledge as an SIU investigator.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am a member of the International Association of Special Investigation Units and attend their annual insurance fraud seminars. They have workshops about the latest insurance scams, arson, fraudulent life and disability claims, and bodily injury scams. They also have webinars throughout the year where highly respected experts in the industry present the latest trends and techniques used by SIU investigators."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Discovery
19. Why did you leave your last job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to know why you left your last job to see if you were fired, gave notice, or were furloughed. If you were fired, they want to see if you admit why you were fired, if you take responsibility, and what you learned from the experience. If you gave notice, they want to understand what you did not like about your job to see if you would fit in with the company culture.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on being direct and honest, and explain why you left your last place of employment. If you gave notice, were furloughed, or fired, describe the circumstances behind your leaving. Be sure to end your response on a positive note and tell the interviewer how you are excited to have the opportunity to interview for the position with their company.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying anything negative about your previous employer, supervisor, customers, or coworkers. When you speak poorly of others, it shows the interviewer that you may be a challenging person to work with and talk about others behind their backs.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I left my last job after working there for twelve years because the company was understaffed. The CEO did not want to hire additional employees, so I worked sixteen-hour days, six days a week. I do not mind working long hours on occasion, but this went on for two years, and I was missing so much in my kids' lives. I realized it was time for a change, so I applied to your agency because of your reputation and a more stable schedule."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Discovery
20. How would you describe your communication skills?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see that you have strong oral and written communication skills, which are required for SIU investigator positions. Your job duties will include speaking with claimants, witnesses, and law enforcement members. You will also testify in court when needed and must have excellent documentation skills. The interviewer wants to hear that you have the necessary communication skills for the role.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing your written and oral communication skills. If you have a former supervisor who commented on your excellent communication skills in a letter of recommendation or performance review, use their description in your response. The interviewer wants to know that you can speak clearly with others while properly documenting reports and other forms of written communications.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying your communication skills could use improvement. The interviewer will pass you over for another candidate if you have poor communication skills. If you need to strengthen your communication skills, you might want to enroll in a leadership course, public speaking class, or read or watch a video on improving your communication skills.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have been told I have exceptional communication skills. In my last performance review, my former supervisor wrote that I communicate clearly and concisely with clients and coworkers. She wrote that I have impeccable documentation skills, which rarely require clarification. I took a communications course in college, which helped strengthen and develop my skills."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Discovery
21. How did you hear about this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Companies invest a lot of money advertising their job openings. The interviewer wants to hear what methods are effective and which are not. They also want to hear if an employee of their agency referred you. Some companies offer their employees a referral fee when they refer a candidate, while others hire recruiters to seek out qualified candidates. Describe how you heard about the position, and be sure to give the name of the employee or recruiter who referred you if applicable.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
The interviewer wants to briefly hear how you heard about the position. Be concise in your response, focusing on describing the recruiter's name, the website where the agency posted the job, the agency website, or an employee referral.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid forgetting where you heard about the position. Suppose you cannot remember where you learned about the job opening. In that case, the interviewer will determine that you do not pay attention to detail and might be applying to many other positions.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I heard about this position from a recruiter named Janna Bernstein. She contacted me on LinkedIn and suggested I apply with your agency due to my experience in the industry."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Discovery
22. Why do you want to work for our agency?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear that you have researched their agency. When responding to this question, highlight unique aspects of their company that stand out from others. You may want to work for their agency because of their stellar reputation, their opportunity for professional growth and advancement, or because of their high number of cases.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Instead of giving a generic answer to this question, focus on showing the interviewer that you have thoroughly researched their agency. For example, if you simply say that you want to work for their company because they investigate insurance fraud, that could apply to many other agencies. Instead, say that you want to work for their agency because they have a reputation for closing more fraud cases than other similarly sized agencies.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
When responding to this question, you want to avoid saying that you want to work for their agency because they pay more than other agencies or offer a more comprehensive benefits package. The interviewer will feel that you only want to work for their agency for monetary reasons. Instead, describe your reason as being one that aligns with the company's mission statement, reputation, or company culture.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I want to work for your agency because you are a customer-focused agency that believes in offering exceptional customer service as your top priority. I also believe in putting my customers first while helping them when they become victims of fraud. With your stellar reputation and success rate, I cannot think of another agency I would rather work with."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Discovery
23. Why did you pursue a career as an SIU investigator?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear your reasons for choosing this profession to understand what motivates you in your career. They want to hear if you were mentored by another SIU investigator if you have family or friends who work in fraud investigations, if you worked in the insurance industry and decided to change careers, or heard about SIU investigations from a guidance counselor or professor.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on giving your personal reason why you chose this career, responding with enthusiasm and passion. There is no right or wrong answer; the interviewer just wants to gain insight into what motivates and inspires you as an SIU investigator.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying you pursued a career as an SIU investigator for the money and benefits or because you could not get hired in law enforcement. If you seem like you are only in this career for monetary reasons, the interviewer will feel you lack passion for the job. If you say that you could not get hired in law enforcement, the interviewer will wonder if there is something wrong with you and question hiring you as an SIU investigator.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I chose to pursue a career as an SIU investigator after working in the insurance industry for five years. I was selling insurance but found insurance fraud more intriguing. I asked the SIU investigator with our company if they enjoyed their job, asked specifics about their work, and inquired how to pursue this profession. After speaking to the investigator that day, I decided to go back to school and obtain my bachelor's in criminal justice."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Education
24. Tell me about your education.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to determine if you have the education needed to perform your job as an SIU investigator. They want to hear if you have a degree, certificates, or any other specialized training that qualifies you to work in this field.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing your education as it relates to the position. You do not need to start with receiving your high school diploma or GED. Start with post-secondary training and beyond. If you do not have post-secondary training and the position calls for only a high school diploma or GED, then indeed mention that you are qualified for the position and describe if you have your diploma or GED. However, most SIU investigator jobs require a minimum of a bachelor's degree or investigative certification along with work experience to apply for the position.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid not having the education required for the position. Suppose the job description calls for an SIU investigator with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, insurance fraud, or investigations. In that case, you want to be sure you meet the requirements before applying for the job.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I obtained my bachelor's degree in criminal justice eight years ago from Missouri Western State University. I then became a certified fraud investigator through the International Association of Special Investigations Units. I have agreed to a code of ethics and passed their exam. I have maintained my certification by completing the necessary continuing education units and am in good standing as an investigator."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Education
25. Do you have any certifications related to this field?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks if you have the credentials they require for the job. Some agencies will need you to have an Advanced General/Specific Peace Officers Standards and Training certificate or equivalent, while others may prefer that you possess a Certified Insurance Fraud Investigator certificate. Describe any certifications you have related to the position of SIU investigator. If specific credentials are required, the agency should have mentioned that in the job announcement.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on keeping your answer brief. Name any certifications you have and any you are currently working towards. If you do not have any certifications related to the position, explain to the interviewer that while you do not currently possess any certifications, you are willing to obtain them if needed.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
If the job requires specific certifications and you do not have them, avoid saying that you do. The interviewer will ask for copies of all certificates before being offered the position. You do not want to be dishonest in any part of the job interview, which would guarantee disqualification from the hiring process.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I am a certified insurance fraud investigator and have a Peace Officers Standards and Training certificate."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
General
26. This concludes our interview. Do you have any questions for me?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to make sure that all of your questions about the company or job role are answered during the interview. It is best to ask a question or two, showing the interviewer your eagerness to learn all you can. Of course, you want to review the job announcement and research the company beforehand so you are not asking questions that could be answered during your research.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on asking questions specific to the role you are interviewing for or the company culture and work environment. Examples of good questions are asking the interviewer how you performed in the interview or if you need to clarify anything, asking what the interviewer likes most about working for the company, or when they are looking to fill the position.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid asking questions about salary or benefits. Often, the salary and benefits package is listed on the job announcement or discussed with human resources when offered the position. If you ask about money or the benefits package, it makes the interviewer think you are most interested in the monetary aspect of the job.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I do have a few questions. Thank you for asking. When are you looking to fill this position, and is there anything you need me to clarify about my work experience?"
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Operational
27. Can you work independently, or do you prefer to be closely supervised?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Many insurance agencies post they are looking for SIU investigators who are self-starters and can work independently. While working in a team environment is also required as you collaborate with coworkers and law enforcement, agencies want investigators who can conduct independent research of claims, examine the evidence, interview victims, and question potential suspects. The interviewer asks this question to see that you can work independently and not need to be closely supervised if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing that you work well independently and work well with teams. The interviewer wants to hear that you can work in different types of situations but that you do not need close supervision.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you want to be considered for the position, avoid saying that you require close supervision. The interviewer wants an SIU investigator who is comfortable working alone but knows when to ask a supervisor for assistance with an investigation.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am very comfortable working independently. I have worked as an SIU investigator for five years and have always worked alone, except for when I need to collaborate with law enforcement or other agencies. I work well in a team environment as well as independently. I do not prefer close supervision as I am confident in my skills as an investigator. If I have a question or require assistance from my supervisor, I do not hesitate to ask them."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Operational
28. Our company prides itself on providing excellent customer service. How do you provide excellent customer service?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Companies that provide excellent customer service greet customers with a smile and a greeting, listen to their customers, know their customers' preferences, and go above and beyond to make them happy. The interviewer asks this question to determine if your values align with theirs. The interviewer wants to hear how you provide excellent customer service to see if you will be a good fit for their team.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Think of how you like to be treated as a customer. Then, think of how you provide excellent customer service, treating your customers how you want to be treated. Describe the actions you take to provide excellent customer service to all, showing the interviewer you will be an asset to their team if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
Some people think customer service is overrated and that the customer is not always right. You might feel that way, but you want to avoid saying that during an interview. If the company prides itself on providing excellent customer service, it will want to hire others who feel the same way.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I value excellent customer service when I am the customer and provide the same service to my customers. I greet everyone with a smile; I introduce myself, ask their name, and how they are doing. I listen to their needs and provide a solution. I ask them if they have questions and clarify anything they do not understand. I thank them for their time and business and make follow-up calls to see if they are happy with the service I provided."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Operational
29. How well do you collaborate with others?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
While much of your job duties as an SIU investigator will be working independently, there are times when you will be collaborating with other members of the investigative team and law enforcement. The interviewer wants to hear that you are a team player and can work well with diverse groups.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you have experience working as an SIU investigator, describe how well you have collaborated with others in the past. If you are new to this field, use an experience from a former job, sports team, or school to describe how you work well with others.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
Since the position requires you to work well with others, you want to avoid saying you do not collaborate well. If you show the interviewer that you will not be a team player or will have difficulty working with others, they will not hire you for the position.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I collaborate very well with others. I think it helps when you have like-minded individuals working toward a common goal for investigations to flow smoothly. In my ten years of working as an SIU investigator, I have collaborated with law enforcement and other investigators and never had any issues. I like working independently, but also enjoy working with others and learning from their experience."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Situational
30. How do you handle difficult witnesses?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Working as an SIU investigator, you will encounter difficult witnesses at times. The interviewer asks this question to gain insight into your temperament, investigative techniques, communication, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution skills. How you respond to this answer will give the interviewer a lot of information about you and your work style.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on outlining a few techniques you employ when working with difficult or hostile witnesses. The interviewer wants to hear that you remain calm, actively listen to the witness, explain why you are interviewing them, what you will do with the information you receive, and stay patient and professional throughout.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying that you become angry, dismiss the witness, or act in another unprofessional manner. If you cannot remain calm and professional when dealing with difficult witnesses, the interviewer will determine that you may not be cut out for the job.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I handle difficult witnesses the same way I do as ones who are cooperative. I am always patient and professional. I introduce myself and explain the reason for the investigation. If someone becomes difficult during an interview, I stay calm and reiterate why I am speaking with them. I stay focused and do not take a witness's anger or frustration personally, and remain neutral at all times. I understand that some witnesses will not help an investigation as well as others."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 12th, 2022