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How to Talk to an FBI Recruiter
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) offers a wide variety of opportunities in specialized fields, such as intelligence, finance, linguistics, science and technology. Securing an interview with the FBI in itself requires standout credentials, such as a bachelor's degree, U.S. citizenship, good writing and oral communication skills and at least three years of professional work experience. Advanced degrees, professional certifications, foreign language proficiency and travel are highly recommended. Whether approaching an FBI recruiter at a career fair or sitting in on a formal job interview, demonstrating in-depth knowledge about the FBI and the desired position, confidence, motivation and a positive attitude will greatly increase your chances of obtaining a job offer.
Search for opportunities to meet with an FBI recruiter in person. Conduct an online search for career fairs in your local area or events at which FBI personnel may deliver presentations. Most career fairs and public presentations are held at colleges, universities and community centers.
Prepare for your meeting with the recruiter as you would for a formal job interview. Dress in appropriate business attire. Gather materials, such as your resume, college transcripts and veteran's documents in case they are requested. Also, printing out and studying FBI job announcements, personnel testimonies, press releases and company background information can help demonstrate your interest and motivation to work at the Bureau.
Approach the FBI recruiter with a confident smile, eye contact and a firm handshake. Introduce yourself and give a brief synopsis of your career aspirations pertaining to the Bureau. Speak in an audible and confident tone. Obtain any additional informative materials--brochures, career catalogues or business cards-- and advice, if offered. Thank the recruiter with a firm handshake.
Apply for desired positions as directed by the FBI recruiter. Fill out the application package thoroughly and accurately. An online application package may also include a questionnaire to help internal recruiting personnel determine suitability. Upload or fax any additional documents as requested. If selected, a recruiter will contact you to schedule a panel interview.
Arrive at the interview site at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled appointment. Dress in business attire. Greet each member of the interview panel individually, exchanging names and firm handshakes. Sit up straight and maintain good posture throughout the interview. Answer each question confidently and concisely, giving appropriate details. Maintain eye contact with the person asking each question. Questions during an FBI interview usually cover subjects, such as personal motivation, situational judgment, problem solving skills and attitude. Be sure to prepare insightful questions for the interviewers as well.
Tip
Know at least two or three current events in detail. Events happening overseas are more likely to be discussed. Pay close attention to world news and take notes.
Print out and study at least one FBI personnel testimony in the specific position you are interested in. For example, if you aspire to become a special agent or intelligence analyst, find an article or published testimony featuring one. Use that person as an example while explaining your goals during the interview.
Be calm, relax and smile appropriately in the presence of the interview panel. Remind yourself that the interviewers were once in your position and they want to get to know you.
Warning
When scheduling an interview, be sure you will be able to make the appointment. Due to the FBI's high volume of applicants, rescheduling an interview or exam date is often difficult.
Never exaggerate or inflate your credentials to an FBI recruiter or during the panel interview. Any inconsistencies that might surface on a pre-employment background investigation may ultimately disqualify you for lack of candor.
Tips
- Know at least two or three current events in detail. Events happening overseas are more likely to be discussed. Pay close attention to world news and take notes.
- Print out and study at least one FBI personnel testimony in the specific position you are interested in. For example, if you aspire to become a special agent or intelligence analyst, find an article or published testimony featuring one. Use that person as an example while explaining your goals during the interview.
- Be calm, relax and smile appropriately in the presence of the interview panel. Remind yourself that the interviewers were once in your position and they want to get to know you.
Warnings
- When scheduling an interview, be sure you will be able to make the appointment. Due to the FBI's high volume of applicants, rescheduling an interview or exam date is often difficult.
- Never exaggerate or inflate your credentials to an FBI recruiter or during the panel interview. Any inconsistencies that might surface on a pre-employment background investigation may ultimately disqualify you for lack of candor.
Writer
Chiara Sakuwa has been a writer since 2005. Her work has appeared in publications such as the "Liberty Champion" newspaper and "The New World Encyclopedia" project. She is also the author of the novel "The Lady Leathernecks." She holds a Bachelor of Social Sciences from Campbell University and a Master of Criminal Justice from Boston University.
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