25 Investigator Interview Questions and Answers

Investigators are in high demand in both the public and private sectors. They may be employed by insurance companies, law enforcement agencies, or corporations. The work of an investigator is varied and can include anything from conducting interviews and researching records to undercover work and crime scene analysis.

No matter which sector you’re interested in, you’ll likely face some common investigator interview questions. In this article, we’ll provide some tips on how to answer questions about your experience, your ability to follow leads, and your knowledge of the law. We’ll also provide some sample interview questions and answers that you can use to help you prepare for your next interview.

1. Are you comfortable working independently?

Investigators often work independently, so employers ask this question to make sure you’re comfortable with that. They want to know if you can complete tasks without much supervision and how well you communicate your progress. To answer this question, explain that you are a self-starter who is motivated by the challenge of working alone. Explain that you prefer to work on your own but will reach out for help when needed.

Example: “Absolutely. I have extensive experience working independently as an investigator and am comfortable taking initiative to solve problems on my own. I enjoy the challenge of being able to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions. My ability to work autonomously has enabled me to complete projects quickly and efficiently, while still maintaining a high level of accuracy. I’m also comfortable collaborating with other investigators when needed, and can easily adapt to different team dynamics.”

2. What are your greatest strengths as an investigator?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your personality and how you would fit into their team. They want to know what skills you have that will help you succeed in the role, so they can decide if you are a good candidate for the job. When answering this question, think of two or three strengths that relate to the position. You could mention qualities like attention to detail, communication skills or problem-solving abilities.

Example: “My greatest strength as an investigator is my attention to detail. I have a keen eye for spotting inconsistencies and uncovering evidence that others may overlook. My investigative skills are further enhanced by my ability to think critically and analyze situations from multiple perspectives. This allows me to identify potential leads and develop strategies to pursue them effectively.

I also possess excellent communication skills, which help me build relationships with witnesses and other parties involved in the investigation. My interpersonal skills enable me to gain trust and cooperation from those who can provide valuable information. Finally, I am highly organized and efficient when it comes to managing complex investigations. I use data-driven methods to ensure that all aspects of the case are thoroughly investigated and documented.”

3. How would you conduct an investigation into a company’s financial records to determine if there were any fraudulent activities?

Investigators often need to be able to conduct thorough investigations into a variety of situations. This question helps the interviewer assess your investigative skills and how you would apply them in this particular situation. In your answer, explain what steps you would take when conducting an investigation like this one.

Example: “I understand the importance of conducting a thorough investigation into a company’s financial records to determine if there were any fraudulent activities. As an experienced investigator, I have developed a comprehensive approach for such investigations that includes gathering and analyzing relevant documents, interviewing key personnel, and performing forensic analysis.

To begin, I would collect all available financial records from the company in question. This could include bank statements, invoices, tax returns, etc. I would then review these documents carefully to identify any discrepancies or suspicious activity. If necessary, I would also interview key personnel to gain additional insight into the company’s finances. Finally, I would use forensic accounting techniques to uncover any hidden evidence of fraud.”

4. What is the most challenging aspect of being an investigator?

Interviewers ask this question to see if you are aware of the challenges that come with being an investigator. They want to know how you will handle these challenges and ensure you can perform your job well. When answering this question, think about what is most challenging for you as an investigator. Consider mentioning a challenge that you have overcome in the past or one that you would be willing to work on improving.

Example: “The most challenging aspect of being an investigator is the ability to remain objective. As an investigator, it’s important to be able to look at a situation objectively and draw conclusions based on facts rather than personal opinion or bias. This can be difficult when dealing with complex cases that involve multiple parties, as emotions may run high and there could be conflicting information.

I have experience in this area from my previous job, where I was responsible for conducting investigations into employee misconduct. In order to ensure fairness and accuracy, I had to take the time to review all evidence thoroughly and make sure that I was not influenced by any external factors. My ability to remain impartial and unbiased has been key to successful outcomes in these types of cases.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to conduct an investigation that was not legally binding.

Interviewers may ask this question to see how you handle situations that are not as serious. This can be a great opportunity for you to showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to work with others.

Example: “I recently had the opportunity to conduct an investigation that was not legally binding. I was working with a local non-profit organization, and they were concerned about potential fraud within their organization. As part of my role as Investigator, I conducted an in-depth review of all financial records and interviewed key personnel.

My goal was to uncover any discrepancies or irregularities that could indicate fraudulent activity. After completing the investigation, I presented my findings to the Board of Directors. Although the results of the investigation weren’t legally binding, it provided them with valuable information that enabled them to take appropriate action.”

6. If you were investigating a crime and a key witness suddenly changed their story, how would you react?

This question can help interviewers understand how you react to challenges and unexpected situations. Your answer should show that you are flexible, willing to adapt and able to solve problems.

Example: “If I were investigating a crime and a key witness suddenly changed their story, my first reaction would be to remain calm and assess the situation. I understand that people can change their stories for various reasons, so it is important to take the time to evaluate why this has happened.

I would then begin by questioning the witness further in order to determine if there are any inconsistencies or discrepancies in their new story. If necessary, I would also look into other sources of evidence such as CCTV footage, phone records, or physical evidence to corroborate the witness’s story. It is important to remain impartial throughout the process and not jump to conclusions until all facts have been gathered.

Once I have collected enough information, I would analyze the data and draw conclusions based on what I have found. This could involve conducting additional interviews with witnesses or suspects, or even consulting an expert in the field. Ultimately, my goal is to uncover the truth and ensure justice is served.”

7. What would you do if you suspected that one of your coworkers was stealing from the company?

Investigators often have to make difficult decisions, and this question helps employers understand how you would handle a challenging situation. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to investigate the claim and ensure that you are protecting the company’s interests while also treating your coworker fairly.

Example: “If I suspected that one of my coworkers was stealing from the company, I would take a thorough and methodical approach to investigating the situation. First, I would document all evidence related to the incident, including any suspicious activity or conversations with the coworker in question. Next, I would review any financial records associated with the alleged theft. Finally, I would consult with other members of the team to determine if anyone else had noticed anything out of the ordinary.

Once I had gathered enough information, I would present my findings to the appropriate authorities. My goal would be to ensure that justice is served while also protecting the reputation of the company. As an experienced investigator, I understand the importance of conducting a fair and impartial investigation. I am confident that I have the skills and knowledge necessary to handle this type of situation effectively.”

8. How well do you handle stress while on the job?

Investigators often work long hours and may be exposed to some stressful situations. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle stress well and remain focused on your job. In your answer, share how you manage stress in your life. Explain that you have a few strategies for reducing stress and staying calm.

Example: “I handle stress very well while on the job. I understand that investigations can be stressful and challenging, but I am able to remain focused and composed in any situation. I have developed strong problem-solving skills over my career as an investigator which helps me stay calm under pressure. I also take time for self-care when needed so that I can maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life. This ensures that I am always ready to tackle any investigation with enthusiasm and dedication.”

9. Do you have experience using surveillance equipment?

Investigators use a variety of equipment to gather information about their cases. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience using the tools they provide and that you’re familiar with how to operate them. Use your answer to explain what kind of equipment you’ve used in the past and highlight any specific skills you have for operating it.

Example: “Yes, I have experience using surveillance equipment. During my time as an Investigator at my previous job, I was responsible for conducting covert investigations and gathering evidence through the use of various surveillance equipment such as cameras, microphones, and other recording devices. I am familiar with a variety of software programs used to monitor and analyze data from these devices. In addition, I have also conducted interviews and interrogations in order to obtain information relevant to my investigations. My expertise in this area has enabled me to successfully complete numerous investigations and uncover valuable evidence that has been used in court proceedings.”

10. When investigating a crime scene, what is the first thing you do?

This question is an opportunity to show your interviewer that you have the skills and knowledge necessary for this role. Your answer should include a description of what you do at a crime scene, but it can also be an opportunity to talk about how you interact with others on the job.

Example: “When investigating a crime scene, the first step I take is to assess the situation. This includes surveying the environment and taking note of any potential evidence or witnesses. I also make sure that all necessary safety protocols are in place before proceeding further. Once this initial assessment is complete, I begin to document the scene by taking photographs and making sketches of the area. I then collect any physical evidence that may be present, such as fingerprints, weapons, or clothing. Finally, I interview any witnesses who were present at the time of the incident, recording their statements for future reference.”

11. We want to improve our customer service. How would you investigate our current customer service practices to determine how you can improve them?

Interviewers ask this question to see how you would use your investigative skills to improve their company’s customer service. Use examples from past experiences where you used your research and problem-solving skills to help a company improve its customer service.

Example: “I understand the importance of providing excellent customer service and am confident that I can help your organization improve its current practices. To investigate your current customer service practices, I would first conduct a thorough review of all existing policies and procedures to gain an understanding of how they are currently being implemented. Then, I would interview customers who have interacted with your customer service team in order to gain insight into their experiences. Finally, I would analyze the data collected from these sources to identify areas for improvement.

With this information, I could then develop strategies to address any issues or gaps identified during my investigation. For example, I might suggest changes to processes or training initiatives to ensure that employees are better equipped to handle customer inquiries. Ultimately, my goal is to provide you with actionable insights that will enable you to make informed decisions about how to best improve your customer service practices.”

12. Describe your process for analyzing evidence.

Investigators use their analytical skills to determine the facts of a case. Employers ask this question to see if you have the necessary skills for the job. Use your answer to show that you can think critically and solve problems. Explain how you would apply your process to an investigation.

Example: “My process for analyzing evidence begins with a thorough review of all available information. I take the time to understand the context and background of the case, as well as any relevant details that may be pertinent to my investigation. Once I have gathered all necessary materials, I then begin to systematically analyze each piece of evidence, looking for patterns or inconsistencies that could provide insight into the situation.

I also utilize various investigative techniques such as interviews, surveillance, and research in order to gain additional insights. During this process, I make sure to document all findings, so that I can refer back to them later if needed. Finally, after I have collected and analyzed all the evidence, I draw conclusions based on my findings and present my results in an organized and concise manner.”

13. What makes you stand out from other investigators?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your unique skills and abilities. They want to know what makes you a valuable asset to their team. When answering this question, think of two or three things that make you stand out from other investigators. These can be specific skills or experiences that are relevant to the job.

Example: “I believe my experience and qualifications make me stand out from other investigators. I have a degree in criminal justice, as well as five years of investigative experience working for the police department. During this time, I gained extensive knowledge on how to conduct investigations, including interviewing witnesses, collecting evidence, and analyzing data.

In addition to my educational background and professional experience, I also possess strong interpersonal skills that are essential for successful investigations. I am able to build rapport quickly with people from all backgrounds, which helps when gathering information from potential witnesses or suspects. My ability to think critically and problem-solve is another key asset that sets me apart from others. I’m confident that my combination of education, experience, and interpersonal skills will be an asset to your team.”

14. Which investigative techniques do you prefer to use?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your investigative style. They want to know which techniques you are most comfortable using and how you apply them in the field. To answer this question, think of a few methods that you have used in previous roles. Explain why these techniques appeal to you and what results they helped you achieve.

Example: “I prefer to use a combination of investigative techniques when conducting an investigation. I believe that the most effective investigations involve using multiple methods in order to get the best results. My primary technique is interviewing witnesses and suspects, as this allows me to gain valuable insight into what happened. I also like to review documents, conduct surveillance, and analyze evidence. By utilizing all of these techniques, I am able to build a comprehensive picture of the incident and make informed decisions on how to proceed with my investigation.

I have experience working with law enforcement agencies and understand the importance of following protocols and maintaining confidentiality. I take pride in being thorough and accurate in my work, and I always strive to ensure that justice is served.”

15. What do you think is the most important aspect of completing an investigation?

Interviewers ask this question to see if you understand the importance of each step in an investigation. They want to know that you will take your time and do a thorough job on their cases. Use examples from previous experiences where you understood the importance of each step and how it contributed to the final outcome.

Example: “I believe the most important aspect of completing an investigation is having a thorough understanding of the facts. It’s essential to have a clear and accurate picture of what happened so that you can make informed decisions throughout the process. This means gathering all relevant information, interviewing witnesses, analyzing evidence, and researching applicable laws. Having a comprehensive understanding of the facts allows investigators to identify potential leads, develop strategies for pursuing them, and ultimately reach a conclusion.

In addition to fact-finding, it’s also important to be organized and methodical in your approach. Keeping detailed records of each step taken during the investigation helps ensure accuracy and completeness. Finally, I think it’s important to remain unbiased and open-minded while conducting an investigation. By maintaining objectivity, investigators are able to come to the most accurate conclusions possible.”

16. How often do you complete investigations?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn about your experience with conducting investigations. They want to know how often you’ve completed an investigation and what the outcome was. You can use your answer to highlight your skills as an investigator, including your ability to gather evidence, interview witnesses and analyze data.

Example: “I have been an Investigator for over 10 years and I am very experienced in the field. During this time, I have completed numerous investigations with successful outcomes. I understand the importance of completing investigations quickly and efficiently to ensure that justice is served.

I typically complete investigations within a few weeks depending on the complexity of the case. I work diligently to gather all necessary evidence and conduct interviews to build a strong case. I also collaborate with other investigators or legal professionals when needed to ensure that the investigation is thorough and accurate. My goal is always to provide timely results so that justice can be served as soon as possible.”

17. There is a lot of conflicting evidence when you are investigating a crime. How do you decide what information to trust?

An interviewer may ask this question to assess your critical thinking skills and how you apply them in the workplace. Use examples from past experiences where you had to analyze conflicting evidence, determine which sources were most reliable and use that information to solve a case.

Example: “When investigating a crime, it is important to be able to make sense of the conflicting evidence. To do this, I rely on my experience and training as an investigator. First, I look at all the available evidence objectively and determine which pieces are most reliable. This includes looking for any inconsistencies or discrepancies between different sources. Then, I use my knowledge of investigative techniques to analyze each piece of evidence and draw conclusions about its accuracy and reliability. Finally, I compare these conclusions with the other evidence to see if there is any correlation between them. By doing this, I can decide which information to trust and which to discard. Ultimately, my goal is to get to the truth of the matter and ensure justice is served.”

18. How do you stay up-to-date with investigative procedures?

Interviewers may ask this question to see how you stay current with the latest investigative techniques and technology. They want to know that you are committed to your career as an investigator and will continue to learn new skills and methods throughout your career. In your answer, explain what resources you use to keep up-to-date on the latest developments in your field.

Example: “As an investigator, I understand the importance of staying up-to-date with investigative procedures. To ensure that I am always informed on the latest techniques and methods, I make it a priority to attend relevant seminars and conferences hosted by industry experts. I also read professional publications and journals related to investigations, as well as keeping abreast of any changes in legislation or regulations. Finally, I take advantage of online resources such as webinars and podcasts to stay current on best practices. By doing all these things, I am able to remain knowledgeable about the most effective ways to conduct investigations.”

19. Are you comfortable testifying in court if necessary?

Interviewers may ask this question to see if you have experience testifying in court. If you do, they can learn about your experiences and how you felt testifying. They can also determine whether or not you would be comfortable doing so again. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific instance when you testified in court.

Example: “Yes, I am very comfortable testifying in court. In my last role as an investigator, I was called to testify in court on several occasions. Each time, I prepared thoroughly for the testimony and made sure that I knew all of the facts before speaking with the judge. I find that being well-prepared is the best way to feel confident during a testimony.”

Example: “Absolutely. I have extensive experience testifying in court as an investigator, and I’m confident in my ability to present evidence effectively. I understand the importance of being able to communicate clearly and concisely when presenting testimony. I also know how to remain composed under pressure and provide accurate information that is relevant to the case.

I am well-versed in courtroom procedures and protocols, which helps me prepare for any situation. I can anticipate questions from attorneys or judges and respond confidently with factual information. My investigative skills are sharpened by my knowledge of legal processes, so I’m able to provide reliable testimony.”

20. Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision while on the job.

Interviewers ask this question to learn more about your decision-making skills and how you handle pressure. When answering, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation and the steps you took to make an informed choice.

Example: “When I was working as an Investigator at my previous job, I had to make a difficult decision while on the job. It involved a case where two individuals were accused of committing a crime together. After conducting interviews and gathering evidence, I determined that one individual was more likely to be guilty than the other.

I had to decide whether or not to pursue charges against both individuals or just the one who seemed more culpable. After much deliberation, I decided to only pursue charges against the individual who appeared to be more responsible for the crime. This decision was difficult because it meant that the other person would go free, but in the end, I felt like it was the right thing to do.

My experience making this tough decision has taught me how important it is to weigh all options carefully before making a final decision. As an Investigator, I understand the importance of being thorough and objective when assessing cases. I am confident that I have the skills necessary to make sound decisions in challenging situations.”

21. What strategies have you used to gain information from witnesses or suspects?

Interviewers may ask this question to see if you have experience conducting interviews and gathering information from people. Use your answer to highlight your interpersonal skills, such as active listening or communication techniques that help you gain the trust of others.

Example: “I have used a variety of strategies to gain information from witnesses and suspects. First, I believe in the importance of building rapport with those involved in an investigation. This helps build trust and encourages people to be more open and honest about what they know.

In addition, I use active listening techniques to ensure that I am accurately understanding the information being provided. This includes asking clarifying questions when necessary and repeating back key points to make sure I have it right.

When interviewing witnesses or suspects, I also like to ask open-ended questions that allow them to provide as much detail as possible. Finally, I always remain professional and courteous throughout my interactions so that people feel comfortable providing me with the information I need.”

22. Have you ever faced an ethical dilemma while conducting an investigation? If so, how did you handle it?

An interviewer may ask this question to assess your ability to make ethical decisions. Your answer should demonstrate that you can apply moral principles and values when making a decision.

Example: “Yes, I have faced an ethical dilemma while conducting an investigation. During one of my investigations, I encountered a situation where the evidence was pointing to someone who was innocent but had been wrongfully accused. In this case, I felt that it was important to ensure justice and fairness for all parties involved.

To handle this ethical dilemma, I followed a few steps. First, I gathered as much information as possible about the case in order to get a better understanding of the situation. Then, I consulted with other investigators and experts in the field to gain their insight on how best to proceed. Finally, I presented my findings to the relevant authorities and advocated for the innocence of the wrongly accused individual. This allowed me to remain impartial and uphold the highest standards of ethics during the course of my investigation.”

23. Do you prefer working alone or in teams?

Investigators often work alone, but they also need to collaborate with other professionals. Employers ask this question to learn more about your interpersonal skills and how you interact with others. In your answer, explain why you prefer working in one capacity over the other. Share a specific example of when you worked in both capacities and what made each experience unique.

Example: “I believe that both working alone and in teams have their advantages. When I work alone, I am able to focus on the task at hand without interruption or distraction. This allows me to think more deeply about the problem and come up with creative solutions. Working in teams also has its benefits; it can be a great way to collaborate and learn from others. By pooling our resources and ideas, we can often achieve better results than if each of us were working independently.”

24. How would you go about gathering evidence for a case?

Investigators use a variety of methods to gather evidence for their cases. They may interview witnesses, examine crime scenes or review documents. Your answer should show the interviewer that you have the skills and experience necessary to complete these tasks effectively.

Example: “When gathering evidence for a case, I always start with the basics. First, I review any existing documents related to the case such as police reports, witness statements, and other relevant paperwork. This helps me get an understanding of what has already been done in the investigation.

Next, I conduct interviews with witnesses or suspects to gain more insight into the situation. During these interviews, I ask questions that are specific to the case while also making sure to remain professional and respectful.

I then use this information to create a timeline of events which can help point out inconsistencies or areas that need further investigation. Finally, I look for physical evidence such as photos, videos, or other items that may be pertinent to the case. By following these steps, I am able to effectively gather evidence for any case.”

25. How do you ensure accuracy and precision in your investigations?

Investigators must be precise in their work to ensure they are able to provide accurate information. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the skills necessary to complete your work accurately and on time. In your answer, explain how you plan out your investigations and keep track of important details. Explain that you use technology or other methods to help you stay organized and focused on your tasks.

Example: “I understand the importance of accuracy and precision in investigations, which is why I always strive to ensure that my work is as accurate and precise as possible. To do this, I take a methodical approach when conducting an investigation. First, I thoroughly research all relevant information related to the case. This includes gathering evidence from witnesses, reviewing documents, and analyzing data. Next, I carefully analyze the evidence and draw conclusions based on facts. Finally, I double-check my findings to make sure they are correct. By taking these steps, I can be confident that my investigations are both accurate and precise.”