Interview Question

[IrishFed]

I would like to get some input on a question which has been asked on some interviews. The question is, “Have you applied to other agencies and if so which ones?” Personally, I do not think it is any of their business what other positions I have applied for but I do not think that answer will win me points.

I spoke to a friend of mine in the corporate world and he stated he has asked that same question to see what sort of competition his company was facing as far as offering the candidate a position. I understand that in the corporate world, but do not think that 100% applies to law enforcement.

So, how can one answer this question honestly and not come across as one who has applied to multiple agencies? Have any of you been interviewed with department X and had to tell them you also have pending applications with departments A, B, and C?

I do not want to come across in the interview that I am desperate to leave my current position and looking for ANYTHING!!

Any input??


Thanks

[Bushido2278]

Although there are likely many reasons they do this, the OBVIOUS one in an LE selection process is so they can go get eyes on your applications to other agencies and verify that your application/backgound info is consistent. They're making sure you're not making stuff up or altering your information as you move through various selections. Corporate America doesn't get to do that trick!

[IrishFed]

Although there are likely many reasons they do this, the OBVIOUS one in an LE selection process is so they can go get eyes on your applications to other agencies and verify that your application/backgound info is consistent. They're making sure you're not making stuff up or altering your information as you move through various selections. Corporate America doesn't get to do that trick!

I get what your are saying but I do not believe any department/agency would actually allow another department/agency to look at their applicants files. I have done many background investigations, and I have never been told or even allowed to go to another agency's HR department and demand to see one of our applicants applications with a different agency.

For example, I think FBI would kick me out of their building if I came in and asked to see the application of an applicant my agency was considering.

If they do this on the state and local level then all I have to say is WOW I stand corrected!!

[Bushido2278]

I get what your are saying but I do not believe any department/agency would actually allow another department/agency to look at their applicants files. I have done many background investigations, and I have never been told or even allowed to go to another agency's HR department and demand to see one of our applicants applications with a different agency.

For example, I think FBI would kick me out of their building if I came in and asked to see the application of an applicant my agency was considering.

If they do this on the state and local level then all I have to say is WOW I stand corrected!!

Then say WOW!
The recruiter from Dept A can go in to meet the redruiter of Dept B and ask to look at an applicant's file. They can't copy it or take it, but they can look.

And it doesn't surprise me to hear that this wouldn't fly at the Fed level.
Local PD's and SO's though....happens all the time.

Gotta love it!

[sap123]

is this for an interview for making you competitive or an interview with a background investigator?

[IrishFed]

This is during an initial interview before they make selections to pass on to the BI.

[IrishFed]

And I have to say "WOW"

I am a man of my word.

Thanks