All TSA Screeners must maintain high standards of hard work, professionalism, and integrity to gain and maintain public trust. How will you exude this commitment in every interaction with the public?
The TSA puts integrity and character first when making hiring decisions. The hiring authorities not only want to hear you say that you possess these characteristics; they want to see these traits in action.
Integrity, a core value of the TSA, is the cornerstone upon which they build the foundation of public trust. Take some time to think about the tangible ways you will exude honesty, integrity, and character every day as a TSA Screener.
"I understand that less than three-tenths of a percent of U.S. government agents are found to violate any critical code of conduct. These instances involve corruption, bribery, domestic violence, and driving under the influence. To exude integrity and earn and keep the trust of the public, I will always behave in a way that is honest, fair, and right. Even the smallest delinquency is unacceptable. I live a clean lifestyle, which includes refraining even from alcohol. I was raised to do what is right, even when nobody is looking. Rest assured, I would keep myself on the straight and narrow while also holding my fellow teammates accountable."
"I'd treat everyone with kindness and respect. Some people have issues with those in authority because those in authority abuse their position. But I would do my job to the best of my ability. For example, while working security for a music venue, there was one occasion when we were performing metal detector screenings and minor pat-downs for entrance to the events. The lists of items were very specific. A young man confessed he had a flask of tequila in his vest pocket before stepping through the machine. He asked if I would look the other way. I respectfully explained that I couldn't, but I treated him with kindness and respect. It was a nice flask. He said he didn't know what to do with it and asked if I would keep it safe for him. I told him I couldn't. I suggested he hide it in his car, and he confessed he didn't have one. But I told him if he figured it out and returned to the line sober, he could come right up to the front, and I would admit him. He agreed and returned shortly after. Everything checked out; I screened him and told him to have a nice night."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
To demonstrate integrity and to earn and keep the public's trust, I will always behave in a way that is honest, fair, and correct. I will treat the public and my fellow employees with respect, patience, and honesty.
Cindy's Feedback
Very good. Do you have an example from a prior position that demonstrates these characteristics in action?
