If you are considering a career in the military, speak to a recruiter to learn more about the requirements and the availability of positions that interest you. Be prepared to be deployed if you join the military. Many military careers that involve interrogation require years of experience, so you will probably have to be willing to work your way up from a lesser position
You will most likely have to start your career as a patrol agent, but will then have the opportunity to work your way up to become a detective, which will involve more interrogation of suspects, as well as interviewing of witnesses and victims. [2] X Research source
As with military and police careers, you will probably have to be willing to work your way up from a lower position before you are able to use your interrogation skills as much as you would like. These agencies are extremely selective and entrance into their training programs is highly competitive, so it may be wise to have a backup plan in case you are not accepted.
Trial attorneys need to be great questioners in order to successfully evaluate jurors, conduct depositions, and question witnesses. [4] X Research source Investigative reporters need to know how to get people to provide truthful answers on important and often sensitive topics. [5] X Research source Psychologists and psychiatrists must know how to ask the right questions and how to interpret people’s responses in order to effectively treat their patients. Forensic psychologists consult with law enforcement and testify as experts on issues related to psychology for criminal and civil cases. [6] X Trustworthy Source American Psychological Association Leading scientific and professional organization of licensed psychologists Go to source
In order to be accepted in the military, you will need a high school diploma, although you might have an easier time advancing to a higher position if you have a college degree. If you want to become a police officer, you may need only a high school diploma, but an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field might make you a more competitive candidate. College degrees are required in some jurisdictions, so check with your local department. [7] X Research source A bachelor’s degree is typically required in order to be considered for a job with a federal agency. There is no specific major required, but you should think about how your studies will benefit you in your future career. Possible majors include psychology, criminal justice, and international studies. [8] X Research source Even if a college degree is not needed for your chosen career path, it might benefit you, especially if you want to continue to advance in your career. If you choose to pursue a different career path related to interrogation, like becoming a lawyer, a psychologist, or a reporter, you will have to complete the specific educational requirements for those careers.
Foreign languages are also important for police officers, as you may often encounter witnesses, victims, and suspects who do not speak English. Studies also suggest that people who learn a second language develop mental flexibility, which is an important skill for interrogators. [10] X Research source
Work on both written and verbal communication skills. There are many high school and college courses that are designed to help in this area, including English classes and public speaking classes. Learn assertive communication. Assertive communication involves many things, including making eye contact; speaking in clear, direct statements; remaining calm; using appropriate body language; and expressing yourself clearly and openly. [11] X Research source Being able to directly confront people whom you are interrogating, handle resistance calmly, and develop alternative modes of questioning will serve you well as an interrogator. Taking courses in psychology, particularly those related to behavioral studies, may also help you learn to communicate effectively in a way that will benefit you as an interrogator.
Taking math and science classes may help you improve in these areas. You can also improve your skills by working at a job that requires you to read charts and analyze data.
It may not be impossible to pursue your career goals with a criminal record, depending on what the charges are. The U. S. military, for example, will consider applicants who have felonies on their records if they submit a waiver request along with several letters of recommendation. [13] X Research source If you have a criminal record, make sure to check with the specific agencies or departments that you are interested in working for in order to determine if you are eligible for employment. Poor driving records and poor credit may also disqualify you from working for certain police departments. These standards vary greatly from department to department. [14] X Research source
The requirements are strenuous, and typically include running a set distance, performing a set number of push-ups, and performing a set number of sit-ups, all within a specific amount of time. Be sure to look into the specifics of the tests you need to take and begin training well in advance. [15] X Research source In addition to physical fitness, there may be other physical requirements for acceptance into the military or a law enforcement agency, including vision requirements. Contact the agency or department that you want to work for to find out if there are any restrictions that may make you ineligible for employment. [16] X Research source
Many police departments use the National Police Officer Selection Test (POST), which tests your reading, writing, and math skills. [17] X Research source The military has its own series of aptitude tests, known as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery. Depending on the job you want, you may have to take some of the following tests: General Science (GS); Arithmetic Reasoning (AR); Word Knowledge (WK); Paragraph Comprehension (PC); Numerical Operations (NO); Coding Speed (CS); Auto and Shop Information (AS); Mathematics Knowledge (MK); Mechanical Comprehension (MC); Electronics Information (EI); and Sum of Word Knowledge and Paragraph Comprehension (VE). If you want to become an FBI agent or a CIA agent you will be required to take a series of written tests that assess your personality. You will also be subjected to detailed background checks.
Stay strong under the pressure and use training as an opportunity to shine. You should expect to take more training courses on various topics throughout your career.
If you are joining the military, a recruiter should be able to explain the exact process of getting an assignment. If you are working to become a police officer or federal agent, you should ask the person administering your exam or someone at the training facility about the process. If you decide to pursue a career in a field that does not require aptitude tests and training academies, you will likely have to search for a job online, by attending career fairs, or by networking with other professionals.
Always be on the lookout for advancement opportunities in your organization. If there is a test available for a position that interests you, take it. Use every opportunity you can find to show your superiors that you are a skilled interrogator. Find ways to put your skill to work in your current position, even if interrogation isn’t your primary duty. Seek out training opportunities related to interrogation that are offered by your organization. Even if you are not required to take a class, show interest and initiative by taking it voluntarily.
