SUCCESS for another SECOND TIMER!

I wanted to email you as soon as I heard. I just found out that I passed Phase II FBI interview, and wanted to thank you again for getting me more prepared. I certainly felt more prepared this time around than I did the first time.

I will say the room was very tense, I didn’t receive a lot of feedback to my responses, just the occasional head nods, but I even cracked a small joke which was met with no response, so it was a little intimidating.

Although I felt pretty good about the interview, I still left unsure of how well I did because of the tense atmosphere

I felt I was in, but from what I hear from other internal employees, is they are trying to standardize the panels, so everyone gets a similar situation, so this may be the norm.

Again, thank you for the advice and everything you helped me with.

RIGHT NOW —- NOTHING SEEMS TO BE NORMAL FOR THE FBI HIRING ………

Even though the FBI seems to be on hold with hiring, be sure that you are getting ready for when they do call.

Start, or continue, writing those stories to answer “behavioral questions.”

  • Give us an example…
  • Tell us about a time when…
  • Describe in detail…

I believe what helped the most was preparing for “Why the FBI”, being tough when editing the stories and helping me flush out my personal feelings in the stories of “how did you feel”, as well as the last session where you asked me questions and I identified which factor they lined up with.”

A NEW SERVICE ADDED TO MY COACHING PACKAGES

Being able to tell “good stories” is the foundation of the FBI interview process.

I critique stories – with an unbiased hand. I’m tough!

(If you don’t take critiques well, you probably won’t like my service.)

I will critique your stories and tell you what you need to do to improve on your stories for the interviewers to get what they need from the story.

If you feel that you are confident and have good interviewing skills, and may not feel that you need Coaching. BUT, you may want to consider receiving some feedback on your story content and what you are telling – or not telling – your interviewers.

This is a TOUGH interview – because it is “blind,” and because they are seeing patterns of behavior through your stories – good and bad!

*************************************************************************************

I think a former client says it best about the “story” responses to “behavioral questions.”

I think the biggest impact for me personally was getting in the habit of talking about my thought process/feelings, not just reciting a string of events.

Forcing me to write down all my stories and receiving your feedback really helped with recall (I didn’t have to pause more than a couple seconds to answer any of the questions).

Story Critique Package
8 Stories: $249
4 Stories: $179

THE STORY CRITIQUE PACKAGE
• Story Preparation Guidelines
• Detailed instructions on how to write a story in response to behavioral questions.
• Audio: Story Preparation
• e-Book – Boost Your Interview IQ


20-60-20
  FORMAT

  • Focusing on the eight factors as defined in the materials
  • Personal critique of your written stories
  • Critique of any re-writes
  • Honest feedback and help to create your best stories
  • 24 hour turnaround

FEEDBACK and EXAMPLES from those who have passed.

4 Story Pack – price
8 Story Pack – price

I just wanted to leave a review and say thank you from the bottom of my heart.

I made it – I am in!

I AM AN FBI AGENT!

It is all because of you. I was on my last and final try of the Phase II interview and you gave me the tools and confidence I needed to pass.

For anyone that is even thinking of hiring you – do it!

Carole is the reason I am here I am because of her coaching.
I could not have done it without you.
Thank you for helping me fulfill my dreams.
I cannot thank you enough!

FBI PHASE 2 AND 3

From a client who passed the 2nd time around.

REALIZED MISTAKE

“When I did Phase 2 for the Bureau, I put the agents on a massive pedestal and assumed they were so much better than me. This was a mistake. I know that played a part in my ability to be authentic and myself, for fear I wasn’t going to be good enough for them…as you know, that was self-sabotaging.”

You only are allowed 60 minutes to interview.

Time your answers to be about 3 minutes – give or take.

“I was doing good until one of the interviewers told me we had just finished with question 5 and had 28 minutes left. I never missed a beat or got nervous after being told that.”

FBI, DEA, and possibly the USSS – are all “blind interviews”. They only know your first name – and four numbers of your Social Security number. That’s IT!

When you tell a story – think of it as describing a movie blind man.

ABOUT MY PROGRAMS

I AM AN INTERVIEW COACH – I HAVE NEVER WORKED IN FEDERAL LAW – OF ANY KIND.

I WORK WITH PEOPLE FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE – IN ALL FIELDS www.interviewcoach.com
(25 years of coaching experience – general)

I ALSO COACH CANDIDATES WHO ARE APPLYING FOR FEDERAL LAW ENFORCEMENT JOBS (ALL AGENCIES – 1811 jobs) www.fbiinterviewcoach.com (15 years of this type of law enforcement coaching – exclusively)

I HAVE HAD CLIENTS REFERRED TO ME BY INTERNAL BUREAU EMPLOYEES AS HIGH AS DIRECTOR.*

*(The Bureau does not allow recommendations – but, the Agents are allowed to refer, based on their own personal experience.)

Most of the Questions are “BEHAVIORAL” (Tell us about a time when… – Give us an example… – Describe a situation…)

Behavioral Questions require a “story” or example of what you have said.
“Show – Don’t Tell.”

The secret to doing well in a “behavioral interview” is showing the interviewer what you have done—- not just telling them what you have done.

It’s the difference between your stories being flat and uninteresting, and sometimes even boring, and your stories being fun and interesting to listen to.

As an example, you could say, “I was very angry.” That would be telling.
Or, I could show with the words:
“I stormed into the room and slammed the door and threw the books on the table.”

I am no longer telling – I am showing my actions. The difference is that when those descriptions are used most people would understand the emotion.

BOOK RECOMMENDATION TO LEARN HOW TO TELL A GOOD STORY.
You can purchase it on Amazon.

Boost Your Interview IQ – Second Edition (white cover – published – 2012) – for a quick brush-up on Behavioral Interviewing as well as other questions. It’s a quiz and you determine which is the strongest
answer.

FROM SOMEONE WHO DID NOT PASS THE FBI EXAM THE FIRST TIME

“Boost Your Interview IQ” by Carole Martin provides you with the essential skills and techniques you need to apply in any real-life interviewing scenario.

If you are truly interested in exploring the fundamentals and learning the essentials of job interviewing, then this book will be an important guide.

Before I read Carole Martin’s book, I must admit that I was lost when it came to interviews. As a young lawyer with three years of experience in my field, I truly thought that I knew everything it took to effectively express myself and market my skills to a potential employer. I had conducted countless client interviews myself, and so I thought I had most question-and-answer techniques down to a science. But when I flunked my first major interview for a dream job with a prestigious employer, I realized that I needed help from an expert. In hindsight, I wish I had sought out this information earlier.

Perhaps because I was too accustomed to being sought out by others as an expert in my own field of law that I did not realize I needed an expert’s advice on basic interview techniques.

I am thankful that I contacted Carole Martin and found her book “Boost Your Interview IQ”  I feel that I have begun the journey towards interview success. In my opinion, learning real-life interview techniques should not be about “gimmicks” or “tricks”.  Instead, Carole Martin provides a wide-range of examples that point you in the right direction.  You will learn through a question-and-answer technique designed by Carole that will give you a thorough understanding of the basics.  Reading this book is the beginning of a journey that will equip you with the essentials of interviewing.  So if you are curious about how to interview, then I recommend you read this book first.  The rest is up to you!

BE YOURSELF – BE YOURSELF – BUT, ALSO BE PREPARED!

FBI Interview – Make Sure They Are Getting To Know You!

One of the MOST important things about answering the Phase II interview
questions is to make sure that they are getting to know you through your stories.

You are establishing “patterns” of behavior in your stories.

From a client who recently passed.

Just wanted to let you know that I Passed! Thanks for all your helpful tips and words of encouragement. I really sat down and worked on incorporating more of “me” into the stories, which as you know was very hard for me. I like to keep things business and to the point. I also tried to RELAX!

You cannot “wing” this interview – get professional help. https://www.fbiinterviewcoach.com

The Call May Come at any Time – Be Prepared For Your FBI Interview

Even though the FBI seems to be behind in the hiring process – be sure that you are getting ready for when they do call.

Received Recently From FBI Coaching Clients
8/23, 9/23

“I believe what helped the most was preparing for “Why the FBI”, being tough when editing the stories and helping me flush out my personal feelings in the stories of “how did you feel”, as well as the last session where you asked me questions and I identified which factor they lined up with.”

“Just wanted to let you know that I Passed! Thanks for all your helpful tips and words of encouragement. I really sat down and worked on incorporating more of “me” into the stories, which as you know was very hard for me. I like to keep things business and to the point. I also tried to RELAX!” 

“I could not have succeeded if it was not for your guidance and preparation for the interview.

As I entered the interview room, I felt like a million pounds were lifted off my shoulders by telling myself that I would be talking to law enforcement about law enforcement. I believe I started the interview with a solid performance and stayed determined to stay calm, but I also showed passion in my voice for the job that I love doing.

I was doing good until one of the interviewers told me we had just finished with question 5 and had 28 minutes left. I never missed a beat or got nervous after being told that.

Working with you made me comfortable enough that two of the stories I used were not ones I had written down or even worked on. During these stories, I felt like you provided me with the correct way to articulate them in a manner that was not only professional but also showed great working skills.”

*I had my phase 2 interview today. Initially, I felt great about it, but going back I wish I would have used more of a variety of experiences for my stories. I will keep you updated once I find out if I passed!

  • I received an email this morning with my Phase 2 results- I PASSED!!!
    I am ecstatic! Thank you so much for helping me achieve this goal!!

In the end, it was a fun interview and I was totally myself. I think you would have been proud.

– I finally got it! Relax – be yourself.

If you are waiting for the call, consider interview coaching specifically for FBI and Law Enforcement. Get started now and be prepared for that call!

Contact me for a free consultation: https://fbiinterviewcoach.com/contact.php

Structured FBI Interview Tips

  • Be yourself.
  • Remember that the interview panel knows no information about you beyond your name.
  • Provide detailed information when answering the interview questions. Provide the best examples of your skills and abilities, drawing from all of your life experiences, not just the most recent ones.
  • The evaluators will be taking notes during the interview to assist them in documenting the results. Do not let this distract you.
  • Do not make assumptions about what the evaluators are seeking. The interview instructions are straightforward. There are no “trick” questions.

If you fail the Phase II Test twice, you will be deactivated and ineligible for future consideration for the special agent position.

Test Preparation: The FBI does not endorse any test preparation materials beyond what can be found on FBIJobs.gov or within this guide.

However, some do give RECOMMENDATIONS based on their own experiences.

***

THIS IS NOT JUST A REGULAR “BEHAVIORAL INTERVIEW”
From clients who passed 2023

I believe what helped the most was preparing for “Why the FBI”, being tough when editing the stories and helping me flush out my personal feelings in the stories of “how did you feel”, as well as the last session where you asked me questions and I identified which factor they lined up with.

***

Today is a little emotional because I remember how heartbroken I was last year when I did not pass the interview the first try, but I am pleased to inform you that I passed the phase 2 interview, and I believe that it was your coaching that made the difference! You were hard on me, and that is exactly what I needed; you told me what I needed to hear not what I wanted to hear and that truly made the difference. I went into the interview calm and relaxed, and I set the tone of the interview with the “Why do you want to be an FBI agent?” and the “Tell us about yourself.” questions. You helped me make my responses so much personal and I believe that the five points made a huge difference; I received positive body language from the agents from the very start of the interview and my confidence continued to grow. I recited all of my stories just like we practiced, and there were a few questions when I had to morph my stories to fit what they asked me: another technique you helped me with.

The exercises that you taught me along with your story critiques gave me tremendous confidence, and I felt that I was in control of the entire interview. I hope my experience can serve as motivation to others that have failed phase 2 the first time, as they need to know this: you can come so much better after a year and knock it out of the park.

***

Anybody that is all in with this process and really wants to reach new heights, I would encourage them to hire you and embrace your teachings. I would also tell them that paying for your services is an investment in their dream; you were a complete game changer for me, as my performance was a night and day difference compared to my first attempt.

***

Breaking down the factors, having backups (half my answers had to be from second and third ranked stories just based on the questions), overall just confidence

Your packet is like gold and I am very glad I worked with you. I will be able to take what I learned about interviewing into the rest of my career as an FBI SPECIAL AGENT.

Am I a great storyteller, still not really but you helped me be good ENOUGH and CONFIDENT sounding even though I was not as confident in my answers since some of my better ones did not fit the questions.

I am forever glad I never have to take Phase II interview again, thanks to you.

***
I had my interview on Tuesday. It was a huge fiasco getting there with cancelled and delayed flights. I didn’t get into my hotel in NYC until midnight on Monday and I had to be at the FBI building at 7am. I was starving and I wasn’t able to do the prep work I wanted to on Monday but c’est la vie!

The interview went really well. I was so nervous but because I had practiced everything so much everything just flowed out of me like I had rehearsed it hundreds of times before.

I had a story for every single question. The agents were very nice and respectful and I even had them laughing at a few of my answers.

I left feeling good about everything, but you never know because as much as they were nice the agents were hard to read. It was sure a blur and they really rush you out of there when you are done so I was trying really hard to make sure I had said everything I wanted to say.

I just got my email today I PASSED!!!!!

***

While you’re waiting – I encourage you to WRITE STORIES.

Since I do not work for the Bureau, I do not know their latest strategy about the timing of resuming interviewing.

But, I do know that people are waiting.

While you’re waiting – I encourage you to WRITE STORIES.

NEW POSTS 4/20/23

Here are two new posts from Second-Timers who failed the first time and passed this time.

Was there anything that I assisted you with that was especially helpful?

Breaking down the factors, having backups (half my answers had to be from second and third ranked stories just based on the questions), overall just confidence.

Your packet is like gold and I am very glad I worked with you. I will be able to take what I learned about interviewing into the rest of my career as an FBI SPECIAL AGENT.

Am I a great storyteller? –  still not really but,  you helped me be good ENOUGH and CONFIDENT sounding even though I was not as confident in my answers since some of my better ones did not fit the questions.

I am forever glad I never have to take Phase II interview again, thanks to you.

I passed – second time!!

Today is a little emotional because I remember how heartbroken I was last year when I did not pass the interview the first try, but I am pleased to inform you that I passed the phase 2 interview, and I believe that it was your coaching that made the difference!

You were hard on me, and that is exactly what I needed; you told me what I needed to hear not what I wanted to hear and that truly made the difference.

I went into the interview calm and relaxed, and I set the tone of the interview with the “Why do you want to be an FBI agent?” and the “Tell us about yourself.” questions. You helped me make my responses so much personal and I believe that the five points made a huge difference.

I received positive body language from the agents from the very start of the interview and my confidence continued to grow. I recited all of my stories just like we practiced, and there were a few questions when I had to morph my stories to fit what they asked me: another technique you helped me with. 

The exercises that you taught me along with your story critiques gave me tremendous confidence, and I felt that I was in control of the entire interview.

I hope my experience can serve as motivation to others that have failed phase 2 the first time, as they need to know this: you’re so much better after a year-  and knock it out of the park.

Anybody that is all in with this process and really wants to reach new heights, I would encourage them to hire you and embrace your teachings. I would also tell them that paying for your services is an investment in their dream; you were a complete game changer for me, as my performance was a night and day difference compared to my first attempt. 

Thanks for everything, Carole. 


ABOUT MY PROGRAMS

I AM AN INTERVIEW COACH – I HAVE NEVER WORKED IN FEDERAL LAW – OF ANY KIND.

I WORK WITH PEOPLE FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE – IN ALL FIELDS www.interviewcoach.com

(25 years of coaching experience – general)

I ALSO COACH CANDIDATES WHO ARE APPLYING FOR FEDERAL LAW ENFORCEMENT JOBS

 (ALL AGENCIES – 1811 jobs)  www.fbiinterviewcoach.com

(15 years of this type of law enforcement coaching – exclusively)


What I offer is TIPS, TOOLS, TECHNIQUES, AND FEEDBACK. The rest is up to you. I have no way of controlling what you do with the information.

I HAVE HAD MY LAW ENFORCEMENT COACHING PROGRAM FOR THE PAST 15 YEARS.

I DO NOT HAVE INSIDER INFORMATION – OR QUESTIONS

I HAVE NOT TAKEN THE TEST MYSELF.

I HAVE WORKED WITH OVER 2000 CANDIDATES FROM ALL OF THE AGENCIES.

MY CLIENTS LEARN HOW TO “INTERVIEW”“HOW TO HAVE CONFIDENCE IN PRESENTING THEMSELVES”  —- AND PRIMARILY HOW TO “BE PREPARED” FOR THESE INTERVIEWS.

I HAVE HAD CLIENTS REFERRED TO ME BY INTERNAL BUREAU EMPLOYEES AS HIGH AS DIRECTOR.

For my credentials and experience.

www.fbiinterviewcoach.com/about.php

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW MOST ABOUT ME IS – “I CARE – I WANT YOU TO PASS”

I WILL HELP YOU – BUT ULTIMATELY IT’S UP TO YOU!.

MY PROGRAM

I realize budgets can make a difference regarding what you can afford – or want to invest.

POSSIBLE OPTIONS

A book recommendation – quiz book  – to teach you how to write a good “behavioral story.” 

(This book link is included in Premier Package.)

You can purchase on Amazon.

Boost Your Interview IQ – Second Edition (white cover – published – 2012) – for a quick brush up on Behavioral Interviewing as well as other questions. It’s a quiz and you determine which is the strongest answer.

FROM SOMEONE WHO DID NOT PASS THE FBI EXAM THE FIRST TIME

“Boost Your Interview IQ” by Carole Martin provides you with the essential skills and techniques you need to apply in any real life interviewing scenario. If you are truly interested in exploring the fundamentals and learning the essentials of job interviewing, then this book will be an important guide.

Before I read Carole Martin’s book, I must admit that I was lost when it came to interviews. As a young lawyer with three years of experience in my field, I truly thought that I knew everything it took to effectively express myself and market my skills to a potential employer. I had conducted countless client interviews myself, and so I thought I had most question and answer techniques down to a science. But when I flunked my first major interview for a dream job with a prestigious employer, I realized that I needed help from an expert. In hindsight, I wish I had sought out this information earlier.  Perhaps because I was too accustomed to being sought out by others as an expert in my own field of law that I did not realize I needed an expert’s advice on basic interview techniques. 

I am thankful that I contacted Carole Martin and found her book “Boost Your Interview IQ.”  I feel that I have begun the journey towards interview success. In my opinion, learning real life interview techniques should not be about “gimmicks” or “tricks”.  Instead, Carole Martin provides a wide-range of examples that point you in the right direction.  You will learn through a question and answer technique designed by Carole that will give you a thorough understanding of the basics.  Reading this book is the beginning of a journey that will equip you with the essentials of interviewing.  So if you are curious about how to interview, then I recommend you read this book first.  The rest is up to you!”

FBI PREPARATION

You can do the self-help package  –

“Self-Preparation Package” and start the prep now.

www.fbiinterviewcoach.com-fbi-package-3.php

$250

I will critique a story for you with this package – important to know if you’re writing the stories in an acceptable manner.

If, you decide to add on the coaching (we take into account what you have already purchased – and never charge for the same thing twice.)

Client who passed the Phase II with only the Self-Prep package – 8/22/19


Dear Carole, 

Against all odds, I passed my Phase 2 Test thanks to your materials. I was under a time crunch and had only 36 hours to prepare because my grad school program – backed nearly right up to my interview date. If it hadn’t been for your materials (I did the self-study packet due to time constraints), I would not have known how to properly format my responses. As you know, I am not allowed to say anything about how the test was conducted, but I can say that your packets were very helpful. 

You can upgrade by adding the difference in price. I never charge for the same thing twice – and there are no expiration dates.


OTHER PACKAGES

“Basic Package”

https://fbiinterviewcoach.com/fbi-package-2.php

$500

“Premier Package”

https://fbiinterviewcoach.com/fbi-package-1.php

$700

THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE BASIC PACKAGE AND THE PREMIER PACKAGE IS TIME SPENT WITH ME –

               EITHER IN COACHING (2 ½  HOURS vs 2 HOURS )

               AS WELL AS THE WRITING FOR YOU – YOUR 5-POINTS*

                WHAT YOU HAVE TO OFFER THE BUREAU.

*The five-point system is a summary of what you bring to the position

The system is aligned with your five fingers to keep you focused and succinct.

A template is provided for you to write your own with the Basic Package and

I will walk you through what to write.

Basic package – you receive a template and I walk you through what to write.

Premier package – I write the 5 points for you based on our sessions

Also can be used as a summary at the end of the interview.

You can upgrade at any point – and only be charged for the difference between the two packages.

(I never charge for the same thing twice.)

Questions/problems – let me know.

Best wishes

Carole

WAITING FOR YOUR INTERVIEW?

The interviews will start after the first of the year.

NOW is the time to keep preparing – write your stories to the behavioral questions.

The only way to answer the questions in the interview is with SPECIFIC examples presented as stories.

It will take time for you to write your stories – START NOW!

A book recommendation – quiz book – to teach you how to write a good “behavioral story.” 

This book link is included in the Premier packages for the FBI Interview Coaching and the Federal Law Interview Coaching – found at https://fbiinterviewcoach.com/fbi-phase-two-interview.php

You can also purchase it on Amazon.

Boost Your Interview IQ – Second Edition (white cover – published – 2012) – for a quick brush-up on Behavioral Interviewing as well as other questions. It’s a quiz and you determine which is the strongest answer.

FROM SOMEONE WHO DID NOT PASS THE FBI EXAM THE FIRST TIME

Boost Your Interview IQ” by Carole Martin provides you with the essential skills and techniques you need to apply in any real-life interviewing scenario. If you are truly interested in exploring the fundamentals and learning the essentials of job interviewing, then this book will be an important guide.

Before I read Carole Martin’s book, I must admit that I was lost when it came to interviews. As a young lawyer with three years of experience in my field, I truly thought that I knew everything it took to effectively express myself and market my skills to a potential employer. I had conducted countless client interviews myself, and so I thought I had most question and answer techniques down to a science. But when I flunked my first major interview for a dream job with a prestigious employer, I realized that I needed help from an expert. In hindsight, I wish I had sought out this information earlier. Perhaps because I was too accustomed to being sought out by others as an expert in my own field of law that I did not realize I needed an expert’s advice on basic interview techniques. 
 
I am thankful that I contacted Carole Martin and found her book “Boost Your Interview IQ.” I feel that I have begun the journey toward interview success. In my opinion, learning real-life interview techniques should not be about “gimmicks” or “tricks”. Instead, Carole Martin provides a wide range of examples that point you in the right direction. You will learn through a question-and-answer technique designed by Carole that will give you a thorough understanding of the basics. Reading this book is the beginning of a journey that will equip you with the essentials of interviewing. So if you are curious about how to interview, then I recommend you read this book first. The rest is up to you!”

FBI PREPARATION

You can do the self-help package –
“Self-Preparation Package” and start the prep now.

https://fbiinterviewcoach.com/fbi-package-3.php
Only: $250

I will critique a story for you with this package – important to know if you’re writing the stories in an acceptable manner.

12/07/22

I PASSED!

Just wanted to say thank you for everything and your hard work.
You helped me to be better at telling my stories and not spend so much time on the situation (that was hard for me) and give a lot more about my action and feelings.

My interview was far from perfect and I stumbled/rambled on two questions but I went in confident and laid it all out there for them.

There was definitely pressure I put on myself since it was my last go at it but just let my preparation do the talking and was myself.

Thank you again.

Questions/problems – let me know.

Carole@interviewcoach.com
Visit https://fbiinterviewcoach.com for more details

INTELLIGENCE ANALYST – Phase III

Just received word that I have passed the Phase 3 Interview. I am so beyond relieved and happy. You really helped me become confident in the way I spoke my stories. All I thought about when the questions were asked to me was what factor and what story can I use for this factor. Preparing my stories and knowing how I could morph the same story to a different factor made me feel more prepared than I thought I would be. I walked in there as confident as I could be and knew I left It all on the table for them to get to know the real me. I had the interviewers laughing at some points because I was authentically myself and most definitely not perfect. Sometimes I had to take a minute and think but that was okay! Thank you so beyond much for your help I couldn’t have done it without all of our engaging and fun phone calls! Wishing you all the best.

fbiinterviewcoach.com/fbi-phase-two-interview.php

FROM SOMEONE WHO DID NOT PASS THE FBI EXAM THE FIRST TIME

“Boost Your Interview IQ” by Carole Martin provides you with the essential skills and techniques you need to apply in any real life interviewing scenario. If you are truly interested in exploring the fundamentals and learning the essentials of job interviewing, then this book will be an important guide.

Before I read Carole Martin’s book, I must admit that I was lost when it came to interviews. As a young lawyer with three years of experience in my field, I truly thought that I knew everything it took to effectively express myself and market my skills to a potential employer. I had conducted countless client interviews myself, and so I thought I had most question and answer techniques down to a science. But when I flunked my first major interview for a dream job with a prestigious employer, I realized that I needed help from an expert. In hindsight, I wish I had sought out this information earlier.  Perhaps because I was too accustomed to being sought out by others as an expert in my own field of law that I did not realize I needed an expert’s advice on basic interview techniques. 

I am thankful that I contacted Carole Martin and found her book “Boost Your Interview IQ.”  I feel that I have begun the journey towards interview success. In my opinion, learning real life interview techniques should not be about “gimmicks” or “tricks”.  Instead, Carole Martin provides a wide-range of examples that point you in the right direction.  You will learn through a question and answer technique designed by Carole that will give you a thorough understanding of the basics.  Reading this book is the beginning of a journey that will equip you with the essentials of interviewing.  So if you are curious about how to interview, then I recommend you read this book first.  The rest is up to you!

2022 2ND TIME PHASE II Clients

2022
A second-timer for the Phase II interview

Hey Carole,

I had the FBI Phase II interview last Thursday and I heard yesterday that I passed!

I think the skills learned by working with you definitely improved my odds.

I felt far more confident going into this panel interview than I did the first time around. I had to morph one story and had to come up with one other story on the fly. They mentioned I cannot give specifics around what I was asked, but I will say your tip to prepare a story about working in a diverse setting did help dig me out of a hole. 

I was somewhat worried when I walked out of the interview as I had a couple stories prepared that Ithought were important stories about me that I did not have a great opportunity to share, but I guess they heard enough to push me through. 

——————

I just got my results.
I passed!
100% I know it’s because of our sessions together. I can’t thank you enough.

I know it was a little touch and go with me for a while, but your tough love and insights really helped me succeed this time around.

I am so happy that I purchased the coaching. Again, thank you so much for all your help. 

DON’T WANT TO WORK WITH ME DIRECTLY?

POSSIBLE OPTIONS
A book recommendation – quiz book  – to teach you how to write a good “behavioral story.” 

You can purchase on Amazon.

Boost Your Interview IQ – Second Edition (white cover – published – 2012) – for a quick brush up on Behavioral Interviewing as well as other questions. It’s a quiz and you determine which is the strongest answer.

FAILURE IS A DETOUR – NOT A DEAD END STREET (Zig Ziglar)


Many people call me after the first attempt at the Phase II interview, and
are almost “ashamed” that they FAILED!

First of all, it is not a FAILURE in the true sense of the word –
they just didn’t PASS.

I have read that the “pass rate” is quite low.

Why does this happen? Two reasons in particular that I can see.

1. They fail to be “themselves” (written on the FBI website)
2. They fail to prepare because they don’t know what to prepare.
Having “stories” prepared is the secret.

AGENCY INTERVIEW 07/2022

NOW I realize that the first time I completed and failed this interview years ago, I was not prepared.
Therefore, the interview seemed tremendous and tedious last time.

However, this time I felt almost as if I needed more time to talk, because I had so much to say! I felt
more confident and comfortable, thanks to your help and expertise.

Yesterday, one day after the interview, I received a call saying that I passed the interview!! I could not
believe it!

Our preparation that went into this interview was clearly worth it.

You are phenomenal at what you do; and I will be recommending you to anyone I know that struggles
with interviews, or needs a refresher.

You helped me to understand how to set up my stories, speak with confidence, and be overly prepared.

Your guidance helped me in achieving this life-long dream of mine, and I will always be thankful.

Every college needs to have courses with your coaching and guidance; I believe it would be extremely
beneficial.

WRITING STORIES – MATCHING THE STORY WITH THE FACTOR

IT IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT THAT THE FACTOR AND THE ACTION MATCH.
While you are learning the technique of behavioral interviewing, I suggest using
“one factor” per story.

Later when you are more at ease with the skill, we will work on moving your stories around.

*****

NO, NO, NO!
You are focusing on the questions – DO NOT FOCUS on the questions.

FOCUS ON THE FACTOR.

********

THE FBI WIRE-TAPPED THE WORLD
https://www.vice.com/en/article/pkgbpn/how-the-fbi-wiretapped-the-world

SOMETHING THAT YOU MIGHT WANT TO READ IF YOU’RE GOING FOR A POSITION WITH THE FBI.

Do you know who Christopher Wray is?
I am shocked at how many of the people who are applying for the FBI don’t know who he is.

Christopher A. Wray
American lawyer, and current director of the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation

https://www.biography.com/law-figure/christopher-wray

In any job search – for any job – you should be aware of who is running the Agency, Corporation, or Company.

CRAZY FACTS ABOUT THE FBI

https://www.life123.com/lifestyle/crazy-fbi-facts?utm_content=params%3Aad%3DsemA%26ag%3Dfw10%26an%3D…

5/25/22

Just wanted to reach out and let you know that I passed my interview! Thank you so much for your help and helping me with my stories! The interview went great and I was very confident and “ran the show” the whole interview! I had them smiling almost the whole time.
Thank you again!

Stories are KEY to answering “Behavioral Questions.”
Most of the FBI interview questions are “behavioral.”

Learn the skill of tell stories and answer Behavioral Questions. Part of my
Program is to “critique” your stories – and I am tough. But, you will know how to tell a good story when we finish our work together.

A book recommendation – quiz book – to teach you how to write a good “behavioral story.”

Easy read with a quiz to see if you can identify a “strong story.” There are no RIGHT or WRONG answers – it’s what they get out of the story – about YOU!
(This book link is included in Premier Package.)
You can purchase on Amazon.

Boost Your Interview IQ – Second Edition (white cover – published – 2012) – for a quick brush up on Behavioral Interviewing as well as other questions. It’s a quiz and you determine which is the strongest answer.

FROM SOMEONE WHO DID NOT PASS THE FBI EXAM THE FIRST TIME
“Boost Your Interview IQ” by Carole Martin provides you with the essential skills and techniques you need to apply in any real life interviewing scenario. If you are truly interested in exploring the fundamentals and learning the essentials of job interviewing, then this book will be an important guide.

Before I read Carole Martin’s book, I must admit that I was lost when it came to interviews. As a young lawyer with three years of experience in my field, I truly thought that I knew everything it took to effectively express myself and market my skills to a potential employer. I had conducted countless client interviews myself, and so I thought I had most question and answer techniques down to a science. But when I flunked my first major interview for a dream job with a prestigious employer, I realized that I needed help from an expert. In hindsight, I wish I had sought out this information earlier. Perhaps because I was too accustomed to being sought out by others as an expert in my own field of law that I did not realize I needed an expert’s advice on basic interview techniques.

I am thankful that I contacted Carole Martin and found her book “Boost Your Interview IQ.” I feel that I have begun the journey towards interview success. In my opinion, learning real life interview techniques should not be about “gimmicks” or “tricks”. Instead, Carole Martin provides a wide-range of examples that point you in the right direction. You will learn through a question and answer technique designed by Carole that will give you a thorough understanding of the basics. Reading this book is the beginning of a journey that will equip you with the essentials of interviewing. So if you are curious about how to interview, then I recommend you read this book first. The rest is up to you!”
——————-

04/12/22
A second-timer for the Phase II interview
Hey Carole,
I had the FBI Phase II interview last Thursday and I heard yesterday that I passed!

I think the skills learned by working with you definitely improved my odds.

I felt far more confident going into this panel interview than I did the first time around. I had to morph one story and had to come up with one other story on the fly. They mentioned I cannot give specifics around what I was asked, but I will say your tip to prepare a story about working in a diverse setting did help dig me out of a hole.

I was somewhat worried when I walked out of the interview as I had a couple stories prepared that I thought were important stories about me that I did not have a great opportunity to share, but I guess they heard enough to push me through.
————————————————-

My Thoughts on why I failed the Phase II —-
I realized that these agents had different experiences than me. Not that anyone is better than anyone else because of experience, but that realization made me more confident in myself.

When I did Phase 2 for the Bureau, I put the agents on a massive pedestal and assumed they were so much better than me.

This was a mistake. I know that played a part in my ability to be authentic and my self, for fear I wasn’t going to be good enough for them…as you know, that was self-sabotaging.

Happy to report, I passed the second-time around, after working with Carole.
————————————————
3/2022

I PASSSSSSSSSSSED I AM OVER THE MOON. Thank you sooooo much for your help without you I wouldn’t be here today. Just wanted to let you know!!!

PHASE III —- Intelligent Analyst
Hello Carole,
I finally made it to Quantico – and I absolutely love it!
The people are super nice. The food good. The room is comfortable and I really like my roommate.

I didn’t believe it at first but I think you are right – they are looking for people like-minded people who they want to work with.

Thank you again. I never could have done it without you. And your encouragement really meant a lot to me.

March/2022

First, I want to say thank you for all the time and effort you spent coaching me. It truly made all the difference in my interview. I tried to take your advice – to relax but I was noticeably nervous going in. The agents on the panel were very nice and professional and tried to make me feel as comfortable as possible.

After it was over, I found that I was the second to last person to finish, and the Applicant Coordinator said that using all the time was a good thing.

I left beating myself up because I hadn’t gotten to use what I considered my best stories and I was pretty much resigned to try again next year…
But I passed!! I can’t thank you enough for your help.

The skills you taught me are invaluable. I know I have more work to do when it comes to interviewing and public speaking, but you’ve given me a great place to start.

Behavioral Interview questions – must be answered with a SPECIFIC STORY.
Anatomy of a Story

A common problem encountered in telling stories is placing the emphasis in the wrong place. The biggest mistake candidates make is not giving enough detail when it comes to the action part of the story. By not including the action steps and details of what you did, the listener does not hear a complete story or get a clear picture of the skill sets you used to achieve the result. By spending too much time on the beginning or the ending you are missing an opportunity to let the interviewer know that you have done what they are looking for in similar situations in past jobs.

Common problems encountered when answering behavioral questions.

• Too much time on the “beginning” – setting up the story.

• Not enough information given to the “middle” of the story. The action is simplified – making it sound like it was an easy task or problem, when in fact it was a very difficult and involved a project that required a great deal of effort above and beyond what was normal.

• Forgetting to finish the story with an “ending” – What was the outcome? Your
interviewer is left wondering – “What happened next?”
Model Proportions

The beginning – 20% or less – the situation, task, or problem – WHY YOU DID IT.

The middle – 60% or more – the action – steps taken to solve problem:

ideas generated, tasks performed, challenges overcome. Your role in the process – WHAT YOU DID.
The ending – 20% or less – the results – cost-savings, bonuses,
awards, promotions? What was the outcome?- HOW IT TURNED OUT.

Examples of Story Proportions

The correct proportions of a story are essential to get your points across in a succinct manner. When you spend too much or too little time on one part or the other, your story does not have the power it could have. Below are two examples of behavioral questions and answers – one is a poor example, the other is a good example.
Poorly told story.

Interviewer’s Question “Tell me about a time when you dealt with a dissatisfied customer.”

Answer – Beginning – Problem/Situation/Task –

“That is the nature of my job – dealing with dissatisfied customers. I probably get on average of 25 calls each day with people who aren’t satisfied with the products, or have a broken part, or want information on how to return the product, or need
information on how to operate the product. They call and yell at us thinking it is our responsibility. It’s like they think we are empowered to do something about the problem. We have a policy at ABC to always try and satisfy the customer.
Middle – No action

End – We even go so far as to refund money in some cases. Other companies would not be so generous, but our company really cares about its reputation.
This story has problems with the proportions and as a result lacks order and effectiveness –

• Too much emphasis is on the problem/situation (more than 20% of the story)
• There are no identifiable skills given (no action)
• End result is focused on what the company does – not what you did

A book recommendation – quiz book – to teach you how to write a good “behavioral story.”

Boost Your Interview IQ – Second Edition (white cover – published – 2012) – for a quick brush up on Behavioral Interviewing as well as other questions. It’s a quiz and you determine which is the strongest answer.You can purchase on Amazon.

amazon.com

QUESTIONS FOUND ON THE INTERNET

BEWARE OF INTERNET LISTS OF POSSIBLE QUESTIONS FOR THE PHASE II INTERVIEW
I see websites offering “sample questions” – they are WRONG!
The questions are “behavioral.” Be prepared with stories.

—————————————————————————————

I had my interview yesterday morning. It was the least warm/friendly environment I’ve been in
professionally. That initially threw me off greatly.

THIS IS A VERY DIFFERENT INTERVIEW – LIKE NO OTHER!
MOST PEOPLE WHO DON’T PASS TELL ME THEY WEREN’T PREPARED FOR THIS INTERVIEW.

QUANTICO – HERE I COME —2/09/22

Hi Carole! I’m finally headed to Quantico!
I had to take the PFT several times before I passed.
But, I did it.
\o/

—————————————————————————————

FEDERAL AIR MARSHALS – FAM

I passed my interview!
Just wanted to say thank you!
The factors helped, although I did kind of struggle one, but I morphed it!

Not every factor has a right answer, but like you said, they all go hand in hand! That played a big role.
The most important thing about your plan to me was getting to think about the Factors and the story
critiques!

DO NOT FOCUS on the questions.
FOCUS ON THE FACTORS.

NEW!

2ND TIME PHASE II

I just got my results.

I passed!

100% I know it’s because of our sessions together. I can’t thank you enough.

I know it was a little touch and go with me for a while, but your tough love and insights really helped me succeed this time around.

I am so happy that I purchased the coaching. Again, thank you so much for all your help.

A COACH – ANY TYPE OF COACH –

PROVIDES FEEDBACK, ENCOURAGEMENT, TIPS, TECHNIQUES…

“THE PLAYER” MAKES THE “TOUCHDOWN”

IT’S ULTIMATELY UP TO YOU AND WHAT YOU GET OUT OF THE PROGRAM.

NOT JUST FBI –

I just wanted to take the time to tell you that because of you, I have now received a conditional offer from the FBI, DEA and USMS.I first interviewed with the FBI and failed. After hiring you and working with you, I have three great chances at my dream job.

Thank you so much for your help. I can express my gratitude for your wisdom and hard work.

ABOUT MY PROGRAMS

I AM AN INTERVIEW COACH – I HAVE NEVER WORKED IN FEDERAL LAW – OF ANY KIND.

I WORK WITH PEOPLE FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE – IN ALL FIELDS www.interviewcoach.com
(20 years of coaching experience – general)

I ALSO COACH CANDIDATES WHO ARE APPLYING FOR FEDERAL LAW ENFORCEMENT JOBS(ALL AGENCIES – 1811 jobs) www.fbiinterviewcoach.com
(15 years of this type of law enforcement coaching – exclusively)

What I offer is TIPS, TOOLS, TECHNIQUES, AND FEEDBACK. The rest is up to you. I have no way of controlling what you do with the information.

I HAVE HAD MY LAW ENFORCEMENT COACHING PROGRAM FOR THE PAST 15 YEARS.

I DO NOT HAVE INSIDER INFORMATION – OR QUESTIONS

I HAVE NOT TAKEN THE TEST MYSELF.

I HAVE WORKED WITH OVER 2000 CANDIDATES FROM ALL OF THE AGENCIES.

MY CLIENTS LEARN HOW TO “INTERVIEW” – “HOW TO HAVE CONFIDENCE IN PRESENTING THEMSELVES” ——AND PRIMARILY HOW TO “BE PREPARED” FOR THESE INTERVIEWS.

I HAVE HAD CLIENTS REFERRED TO ME BY INTERNAL BUREAU EMPLOYEES AS HIGH AS DIRECTOR.

For my credentials and experience.

www.fbiinterviewcoach.com/about.php

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW MOST ABOUT ME IS – “I CARE – I WANT YOU TO PASS”
I WILL HELP YOU – BUT ULTIMATELY IT’S UP TO YOU!.

THE MAJORITY OF QUESTIONS WILL BE “BEHAVIORAL-BASED”

It’s what they get “out of the story” that is more important than the story itself.

You are setting up a pattern of behavior with your stories.

KUDOS OR COMMENTS ARE THE BEST WAY TO END A STORY – THIRD PARTY
ENDORSEMENT. (IF THERE WERE ANY – IF NOT, OK.)

Third party endorsement is a great way to “brag” about yourself – indirectly. This means saying something through someone else’s words. While you are describing yourself or what you can bring to the job, add a quote from someone who said something positive about you.

Success Stories

You can add me to your laundry list of success stories.
I just received word that I passed my interview. Your advice was critical in helping me refine the skills I needed to prep for it, and that prep is what gave me the confidence I needed to do well.

I even had one agent laughing at some of my stories so I felt confident that I was answering well. I definitely let more of my personality shine through this time and it paid off.
Thank you again for all of your help.

SECOND-TIME AROUND

I found out earlier today that I passed Phase II and will be moving forward. I can’t thank you enough for your help preparing me for my second try at the interview.

5 POINTS – 5 FINGERS – A TOOL THAT KEEPS YOU FOCUSED AND ON TRACK.

The “5 Points” and “Why I want to be an agent” really started off my interview strong and I could tell the agents were impressed with my answers.

PREMIER PACKAGE –

Your personalized summary written by Carole Martin – 5 points.
I personally summarize and write your 5 points to answer the questions, “Why do you want to be an agent?”, and “Why are you qualified?”

BASIC PACKAGE

You will receive a template to use to write your own summary of “What I Bring To The Bureau.
Carole will walk you through this template to assist you in writing your own 5 points.

See how I can help you pass! www.fbiinterviewcoach.com

I passed!

I surely would not have been prepared without your expert coaching. Thank you for your time and efforts working with me. I worked so hard on my stories and presentation after our final session that I shocked myself how relaxed I was in the interview.

I really believe that made the difference, or in your words “be yourself.”

ABOUT MY PROGRAMS

I AM AN INTERVIEW COACH – I HAVE NEVER WORKED IN FEDERAL LAW – OF ANY KIND.

I WORK WITH PEOPLE FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE – IN ALL FIELDS www.interviewcoach.com
(20 years of coaching experience – general)

I ALSO COACH CANDIDATES WHO ARE APPLYING FOR FEDERAL LAW ENFORCEMENT JOBS(ALL AGENCIES – 1811 jobs) www.fbiinterviewcoach.com
(15 years of this type of law enforcement coaching – exclusively)

What I offer is TIPS, TOOLS, TECHNIQUES, AND FEEDBACK. The rest is up to you. I have no way of controlling what you do with the information.

I HAVE HAD MY LAW ENFORCEMENT COACHING PROGRAM FOR THE PAST 15 YEARS.

I DO NOT HAVE INSIDER INFORMATION – OR QUESTIONS

I HAVE NOT TAKEN THE TEST MYSELF.

I HAVE WORKED WITH OVER 2000 CANDIDATES FROM ALL OF THE AGENCIES.

MY CLIENTS LEARN HOW TO “INTERVIEW” – “HOW TO HAVE CONFIDENCE IN PRESENTING THEMSELVES” ——AND PRIMARILY HOW TO “BE PREPARED” FOR THESE INTERVIEWS.

I HAVE HAD CLIENTS REFERRED TO ME BY INTERNAL BUREAU EMPLOYEES AS HIGH AS DIRECTOR.

For my credentials and experience.

https://fbiinterviewcoach.com/about.php

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW MOST ABOUT ME IS – “I CARE – I WANT YOU TO PASS”
I WILL HELP YOU – BUT ULTIMATELY IT’S UP TO YOU!.

The real SECRET to passing Phase II is——
BE YOURSELF!
RELAX, RELAX, RELAX!
Drink the water. It’s not a trick.
Take your time, think about your answers, and don’t try to be who you think they want you to be.
Be yourself!

Hello Carole from QUANTICO

I finally made it and I absolutely love it.
The people are super nice. The food good.
The room is comfortable and I really like my roommate.

I didn’t believe it at first but I think you are right – they are looking for people who they want to work with. Because everyone out here is nice – without exception.

FBI BLOG

THE SUCCESSES CONTINUE

I just wanted to let you know that I passed the Phase II interview. I felt confident in the introduction part of the interview, in which I felt that they grasped who I was. Also, using the phrase “So what I did was” helped keep me on track and get to the action. Thanks again for everything; I genuinely appreciate it.

Phase 2 FBI interview

I just wanted to let you know that I passed my phase 2 FBI interview!!! Thank you so much for preparing me and helping with my stories.

I honestly felt like I did horrible, my stories were all over the place. But I entered the room with high energy and showed them my personality in the first few minutes.

I also remembered my 5 points and had a killer close, which is why I think I passed.

The exercise we did where I identified the factor within the question was also extremely beneficial.

So excited to be through that! Thank you again, I really appreciate the help!

PHASE III – IA – INTELLIGENCE ANALYST

PHASE III – IA – INTELLIGENCE ANALYST
I PASSED
I am so glad I reached out to Carole for interview prep before my
Phase III Intelligence Analyst interview! I felt very prepared for all
of the questions, and knew how to ensure I answered in the most
desirable type of format. During my first session with Carole I was
struggling to understand how to take my limited work experience
and turn it into an example of a core competency. But she was able
to help simplify the process and give me the confidence to pass,
and I passed! Thank you Carole!!


QUANTICO HERE HE COMES – GREAT NEWS!
I just wanted to let you know that I’ve made it through the FBI process, got my appointment
letter, and start the academy at the end of the month! I wanted to thank you again for all your
help preparing me for the interview.


IT WAS AMAZING
Hi Carole,
Well worth the money. I actually do not know any FBI agents but
I was doubting whether they would want to hear any jokes or
personal things, and I think that is what separated myself.
People should take it seriously but definitely be yourself and
show you are a human.
Feel free to share anything I have sent you in your blog and with
clients.
Thank you so much!


Carole, I just received my results and wanted to thank you again for helping me through
the interview process. I passed 🙂
Thanks for believing in me and sticking with me through the process, and for helping me
to feel more at ease, confident and to always remember through it all, to be myself.
I really appreciate your time, energy, and desire to help the future of the FBI. You are a
blessing, thank you so much! I will be sure to recommend you!


INTERNAL FBI EMPLOYEE GOING FOR AGENT POSITION

I wanted to let you know that I passed Phase 2.
Thank you for your help and tough feedback. I believe the thing you taught me that was most
impactful was for me to talk more about my feelings and obstacles rather than just saying an
action. This helped the interviewers learn more about me as a person and presented a better
picture of who I am.


I just wanted to let you know that I passed my phase 2 FBI interview!!! Thank you so much for preparing
me and helping with my stories.
I honestly felt like I did horrible, my stories were all over the place. But I entered the room with high
energy and showed them my personality in the first few minutes.
I also remembered my 5 points and had a killer close, which is why I think I passed.
The exercise we did where I identified the factor within the question was also extremely beneficial.
So excited to be through that! Thank you again, I really appreciate the help!

ATF

I finally got the news that I’m moving on to the background investigation! I felt like I nailed the interview but could never be sure.
Thank you so much for the sessions we had, I learned a ton about relaxing, becoming comfortable, and letting my personality come through. It’ll still take a while from now to go through the rest of the process but I’m looking forward to moving on.

I really am so grateful to you!

US MARSHALS

I just had my interview with the U.S. Marshals Service and it went great! It was easier than I expected and I was very prepared thanks to you. Whether I get it or not I was as ready as I could be. I feel very good about it! Thank you so much.

I wanted to share my news!

I PASSED! I just want to thank you again for your help in getting me where I needed to be. I know without your help it would not have been possible.
Any FBI second timers who are serious about the job should inquire about your services.
Going into the interview I had my stories pretty ingrained in my head, and I was still going over them as I was waiting outside the office for the agents to call me in. I think I ended up morphing a majority of my stories to fit the questions asked.
I’d have to say knowing my stories back and front and being able to morph them was the most helpful skill(s) you taught me.
Thank you so much again for everything Carole.

Another satisfied customer.

#1 QUESTION THAT IS ASKED OF ME

When should I begin the preparation?

Unfortunately, there is no “one-size-fits-all” answer.

This is a personal decision only you can make.

            You know yourself  – 

            Do you like to be totally prepared – not rushed?

            Or, do you like the “pressure” – the last-minute rush – to be “fresh”?

One answer that I can give with confidence is – you should start thinking, and/or working on, your stories.

FBI (DEA and USSS as well) uses BEHAVIORAL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS in there interviews.

These type of questions sound like –

            “Tell us about a time when…”

            “Give us an example…”

            “Describe a situation…”

This type of question can only be answered by a specific “story” or “example.”

A good answer is specific to the question asked.

An example – Tell us about a time when you had to organize a complex project to

meet a deadline.”

            You will need to tell the interviewers  a “story”!

            The more details you can give them – the better the story.

            “Specific” is the key word here.

Behavioral interviewing is a technique that has been around for a while – nothing new!

The law enforcement began using this type of question several years ago – replacing “situational/hypothetical questions like, “What would you do if…?

Some agencies still use Situational/Hypothetical questions, or a combination of situational and behavioral questions.

THE FBI ONLY USES BEHAVIORAL QUESTIONS.

There may be some beginning questions such as“Why do you want to be…?” questions,

But, most of the questions are BEHAVIORAL – that require a specific example of “a time when.”

So, back to the question of when to begin preparation?

START NOW!

Start thinking of, and start talking-out your story ideas!

Or, start writing your stories out so that you can recall all of the details.

If, and when, you decide to work with me and my program, I will critique your stories.

The story is important, but what is even more important, is what they “take away” from the story.

They will be more interested in you and your thinking and actions , then the actual story.

Behavioral Interviewing —SHOW don’t TELL

When I was journalism major I wrote countless papers. Many of the papers that I would get back had the words, “Show – don’t tell” written on them.

It took a while to figure out what I was not doing and why I was getting this feedback. But once I got it there has been a profound improvement in my writing and ability to tell “stories.”

I now find myself telling my clients the same thing – “Show – Don’t Tell.”

The secret to doing well in a “behavioral interview” is showing the interviewer what you have done — not just telling him or her.

It’s the difference between your stories being flat and uninteresting and sometimes even boring and your stories being fun and interesting to listen to.

As an example, you could say, “I was very angry.” That would be telling.  Or, I could show with the words,

“I stormed into the room and slammed the door and threw the books on the table.” I am no longer telling – I am showing my actions. The difference is that when those descriptions are used most people would get the idea of the emotion.

Action is very important in answering behavioral interviewing. The number one mistake made in behavioral interviewing is not “showing” the Action. Most people want to focus on the problem or event and not the action.

Let’s go back a step and talk about “Behavioral Interviewing.” This method of interviewing is not new – it’s been around since the 70’s when industrial psychologists developed a way of “accurately” predicting whether a person would succeed in a job. They concluded that if candidates were asked questions that requested examples of past behavior it would be an indicator of their future behavior.

So, employers began using this interviewing technique to determine whether you were a good fit for the job. The technique is of growing interest to companies who would like to choose the “right” candidate, especially in today’s market with so many candidates to choose from.

The types of questions that are asked using this technique are used to find out how and what you did in the past and the skill sets you used in the process – if you did it before you can do it again!

The difference between a behavioral question and other questions is what the question asks for. A behavioral question will ask for a very specific incident –“a time.

For example when asked, “Tell me about a time when you solved a problem,” the key words are “a time.” This answer calls for a “specific” example of a “specific” incident.         

When traditional questions are asked they usually include the word “if.”

While preparation is important for every interview, it is essential to prepare for the behavioral interview. You must have examples or stories for anything you have claimed on your resume or that you say in an interview.

THE FBI USES BEHAVIORAL QUESTIONS ONLY (DEA, SECRET SERVICE AS WELL) 

NO HYPOTHETICAL QUESTIONS ARE ASKED.

There are several methods and acronyms suggested for formatting your stories but the main point to remember is that any story has three key elements:

A beginning – “There was a time….”

A middle – “The action steps I took were…”

An Ending – “The end result was…”

Stories should be interesting and full of action. When you show and don’t just tell – this will happen by itself. Give the interviewer something to remember about you. A savvy interviewer will be able to hear skills from the stories and judge your behavior from your past actions.

The more details and skills you can show and work into your story, the more convincing your story will be. The interviewer will be able to “see” you in action. You will be showing them what you can do.

Preparing your stories before the interview will take the mystique out of behavioral interviewing and allow you to tell the success stories you want your interviewer to see and hear.

By showing them what you can do – HAVE DONE – and who you are you – will enable the interviewer to get a clear picture of you.

THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF THE FED LAW INTERVIEW!

                                    BE YOURSELF!!!

WORDS OF ADVICE FROM THOSE WHO PASSED THE 2ND TIME AROUND – AFTER USING MY PROGRAM.

I just received my Phase II testing results and I passed!!!!!

Your guidance and tough love along the way helped me tremendously. I want to thank you for everything!

The day before my interview (when I arrived in Atlanta) I felt confident and I was even a bit excited. I couldn’t wait to tell them all about me. During the interview, I was still a bit nervous but I was able to answer every question confidently. By the end of the interview I was certain they knew much more about me than the last time. I even finished my interview a bit early. I was prepared!!

Thanks again!!

03/11/20

I just wanted to drop a note to let you know I passed! I can’t thank you enough for the help and guidance you provided, as this was my 2nd attempt at the FBI phase II…so my last chance!.

 I also want to thank you for accommodating me as I was crunched for time when I reached out to you, but we were definitely able to do what we needed to do!

I also want to thank you for combining 2 into 1, as I had both the DEA & FBI interview within the same week. The only thing I regret is not reaching out to you before my first interview over a year ago.

Your critiques & direction is what got me through this one. I was able to polish up my stories to “tell the story”. It was night and day difference in comparing my first attempt with this one.

 I felt like they “got to know me” during this round….and confidence, confidence, CONFIDENCE! I was even able to introduce some southern humor to lighten the mood & to poke fun at myself a bit, which seemed to lighten their demeanor as well. 

I felt like the lack of confidence and not getting to know the person was my hindering factor for my first round/failure, but with your style of teaching and the materials we discussed….prepped me to portray the real me.

I passed the DEA interview before my FBI one, so that gave me a boost in confidence in and of itself…but going into both with the knowledge gained from your coaching was definitely the deciding factor with both of these.

Now…if you only had a coaching strategy to pass that pesky PFT….I’d be a satisfied customer.😊

03/05/20

As promised, pass or fail I would update you accordingly.

I passed!!!! Thank you.  Thank you.  Thank you!!!

I could not have done it without you.  You did for me what I have failed in consistently within my own efforts alone.  

My interview this time around compared to the last was night and day.  I know it seemed like I wasn’t listening to you, but I soaked up every bit of advice you threw at me and followed it to the “T.”  

It wasn’t a perfect interview.  There were a couple of questions that I wasn’t able to discern which factors they were going for as it wasn’t so clear cut; but like you said, “just tell a story.  Anything is better than a zero.” I did exactly that.  

The rest I delivered were great.  Some questions I answered powerfully because I was prepared.  

I was nervous but like you said, I came in there with all the confidence in the world.

 I was “Mr. Personality”  from the beginning and I made them laugh a lot.  

My 5-points felt like my moment and I delivered! 

All in all, I did what you said; it wasn’t perfect but I walked out of there not knowing if I passed or not, but without a doubt I left knowing that they truly got to know ME –  the person.  

This was a huge win for my life Carole.  Thank you!!!!

2/03/20

I hope all is well. I wanted to let you know that I received a passing score! I can’t thank you enough for your work, support and encouragement. From your personal coaching to the exercises, it made a difference. It helped me gain more confidence in myself and allowed me to sit back and pause after each question to give me time to paint the best story. I can also say that this interview was better than my first, especially with regards to laying out the SAR (20/60/20).

Again, thank you for your time and support! It was truly a pleasure working with you.

I recommend you to anyone else who finds themselves struggling with interviews. 

01/29/20

Got the news last night. I PASSED!!! Thank you again for all your help. I know you continue to search for the reasons some pass and others do not. Of course, I do not have that answer, but I can share with you what I think helped me pass the second time. 

1) I left my “suit” at the door. I am an attorney, no doubt about it. But I spoke to the interviewers like I would to some friendly colleagues after work, not like I was talking to a panel of judges. 

2) In preparing I always had emotional intelligence in the back of my mind. I was thinking about opportunities in my stories to discuss my feelings and the feelings of others and how this impacted my decision making. I do not think they are looking for robots.

3) I spent a lot of time, as you know, working on my “why.” And I also went back and listened to the recordings of our sessions. I also sent you a lot of stories and applied your criticisms. This really nailed the story telling formula and proportions into my mind.

Other than that, I think the rest is just putting in the time to find and practice stories that match the eight factors. Having a couple stories for each factor, even if you have to morph them is a safe bet.

I think just sounding prepared gets you further than most people think. 

Thank you again. Regardless of whether I make it through the rest of the process, it was a victory for me to beat this the second time, and I can’t thank you enough for all your help.

I just got my results, and I passed the FBI Phase II!

3/16/21

I just got my results, and I passed!

I think I was subconsciously expecting at least some feedback and engagement during the interview, but I guess my answers fit the questions they asked. I kept in mind what you said about not trying to be a perfectionist, and I memorized my stories to the point that I knew every major point I needed to hit but not to the point that it became a script.

I want to say thanks for the honest feedback and for the encouragement!

——–

03/10/21

Just received news that I PASSED! I just accepted my job offer. I am so thankful for the delightful experience on such a short notice of time. Thank you again! 

——–

03/10/21

Put another notch in the win column! Thank you for all your help.

I would NOT have been even close to prepared without working with you. Instead I went in confident and calm knowing I had stories ready to answer any question.

Writing out every story (I had close to 20 ready) and reading them aloud daily prepared me immensely. Thank you again!!

——-

03/09/21

I passed! Carole, thank so you much. I really committed to your format, and I honestly believe that was the difference as a second timer.

I had a couple places where I stumbled a bit and had do some morphing and rearranging of stories, but in the end, I think it’s the consistency of the way I told my stories that did it.

Also, they were intently taking notes when discussing personal aspects of my life–particularly when I discussed how the tragedy of my uncle’s murder made me determined to work for the FBI.

Thank you again, best wishes.

Cheers!

——

2/14/21

I just received results from the FBI this evening.  I passed phase 2 of the special agent selection system! 

 Thank you so much for helping me prepare for the interview.  I felt so much more confident going into the interview. 

 I took your advice and tried to stay relaxed and show more of my personality – it definitely paid off!

Thanks!

——

01/25/21

I wanted to let you know that I passed the phase 2 interview!

After working with you, I felt extremely confident walking into it and felt prepared to answer all their questions. Thanks again for your help!

TALK ABOUT SHORT NOTICE

03/9/21

Coaching was on Saturday and Sunday – with an interview on Monday.

Hi Carole!

Just received news that I PASSED! I am so thankful for the delightful experience on such a short notice of time. Thank you again! 

WHAT WAS IT ABOUT THIS PROGRAM THAT HELPED YOU THE MOST?  (From clients who passed)

          Thank you so much for your tips. The important point you gave me about being confident in my answers and being myself helped more than anything.

            I have to say I think the biggest component to my success was the way you helped me        build confidence and feel secure in my answers. Practicing with you was      immensely helpful.

            I think my key was preparation. It helped to have another’s perspective on my material.         Thanks again. 

            For me, it was the feedback – both on my stories and on my presentation style.

            Listening to myself on the recording was very difficult, but enlightening.   

FBI — INTELLIGENCE ANALYST —PHASE III

Now more than ever, the global intelligence workforce must seamlessly combine their talents to protect the nation. The FBI continues to evolve into a threat-based, intelligence-driven organization that has expertise in identifying risks to our national security and an unrivaled ability to mitigate them.

At the FBI, we work diligently to play our part in the global intelligence community.

We execute our intelligence strategy via defined Intelligence Analyst (IA) career paths, rigorous selection processes and comprehensive training programs. FBI IAs are on the frontline of protecting America’s national security.

1/22/21

I have to say I think the biggest component to my success was the way you helped me build confidence and feel secure in my answers. Practicing with you was immensely helpful.

I think as a younger applicant with less experience, the ability to remain collected and on task gave me a great advantage. I think this training will help me for any kind of interview I have in the future. 

(So thanks again)

Hi Carole,

I wanted to let you know that I got my Phase III interview results yesterday via email — I passed! Thank you so much for your assistance. 

USDA

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides leadership on food, agriculture, natural resources, rural development, nutrition, and related issues based on sound public policy, the best available science, and efficient management.

1-19-21

Earlier in the spring I applied for an auditor job with the USDA, I had a phone interview with them and all the coaching advice and training that you provided proved to be incredibly valuable.  I ended up getting a job offer from them and started working a couple months ago. 

So, I just wanted to let you know that your coaching is great for the FBI interview, but also has a lot of value for other kinds of federal interviews.

PEOPLE – “JUST PEOPLE”

SPECIALLY TRAINED PEOPLE – BUT,

“JUST PEOPLE” – WILL BE INTERVIEWING YOU!

Second-time around!!

In my first time interviewing with “Agents,” I put them on a massive pedestal and assumed they were so much better than me.

This was a mistake!

I realized that these agents had different experiences than me. Not that anyone is better than anyone else because of experience, but that realization made me more confident in myself.

I know that played a part in my first interview. I lacked the ability to be authentic and myself, for fear I wasn’t going to be good enough for them…as you know, that was self-sabotaging. 

ABOUT FACIAL HAIR

I was maybe 1 of only 2 applicants with a beard. And also, I was 1 of only 2 applicants with a grey suit. Everyone else was clean shaven and wearing dark blue…I only say this because I was so worried about my facial hair being an issue or just “looking too different.”

 It didn’t matter at all. I was groomed well enough, so the rest was presentation!

LAST MINUTE COACHING

We only had Saturday and Sunday to prepare her for the interview. Her interview was on MONDAY!

Monday –

Welp, it over! Answered every question. Got more than a few laughs and I definitely feel they got a good picture of who I am. 

I used a majority of my stories but I also used experiences that naturally came to mind.

I have a good feeling about this, Carole! I’ll keep you update.

Today –

I passed, Carole!!! Just got word. 

MORE PASSING THIS WEEK

Carole

I wanted to let you know that I passed the phase 2 interview! After working with you, I felt extremely confident walking into it and felt prepared to answer all their questions.

Thanks again for your help!

My Thoughts on why I failed the Phase II —

I realized that these agents had different experiences than me. Not that anyone is better than anyone else because of experience, but that realization made me more confident in myself.

When I did Phase 2 for the Bureau, I put the agents on a massive pedestal and assumed they were so much better than me.

This was a mistake. I know that played a part in my ability to be authentic and myself, for fear I wasn’t going to be good enough for them…as you know, that was self-sabotaging

BOUGHT SELF-PREPARATION – UPGRADED TO PREMIER

$400 difference for upgrade to Premier

I just wanted to let you know that I received my results today for phase II and I passed! I really appreciate all the help you gave and I’m so glad I reached out to you. Thank you so much. 

SELF-PREPARATION PACKAGE — $199

Carole,

I wanted to let you know that even though I purchased your materials only package, and we didn’t get a chance to talk over the phone, your insight and material was invaluable for me. I passed!  This was my first time taking the phase II interview.

Money well spent!

It was amazing, well worth the money.

I had one person crying of laughter.

Wanted to thank you for the tough love and support!

 I passed my interview and found out already (in 2 whole days!)

I feel like I was the top draft pick in professional Football!

I did not remember most of it to be honest.

What I did do was be my goofy self and I think I offered a great mix of humor, seriousness, and professionalism.

They loved my ER Halloween story and they loved some of my navy stories, I had one person crying of laughter.

Thanks again and wish you all the best!

What helped me the most was starting the interview and getting the agents to laugh

When I was walking up to the room and when I sat down I began to feel my heart racing like crazy.  Once I got them to laugh I immediately calmed down and was able to be myself. 

I just wanted to let you know the good news that I have passed Phase II!  Thank you so much for your help.  Even with only 2 weeks until my interview you were able to help immensely. 

It was amazing, well worth the money. 

 I felt so much more comfortable in my story telling.  What helped me the most was starting the interview and getting the agents to laugh. 

I was doubting whether they would want to hear any jokes or personal things, and I think that is what separated myself. 

People should take it seriously but definitely be yourself and show you are a human.  

Feel free to share anything I have sent you in your blog and with clients.

SECRET SERVICE IS HIRING – AND FAST (SHORT NOTICE)

I would say that all advice and techniques applied and were very helpful. I wish I had more specific advice. But as you know, relax and be yourself is probably the best advice other than preparing. 

Thanks again for helping me on short notice. 

——-

10-23-20

Carole,

Immediately after my interview, they told me I passed.

One of the special agents even went as far as telling me it was the best response, for one specific question, that he’s ever heard.

I owe a lot of it to the way you’ve instructed me to format and concoct enticing stories based on the key facts the agency was looking for.

Two questions we went over were asked, and on one occasion I had to come up with a story, on the fly, which was probably my weakest answer of the bunch.

As you’ve said, it was important that they got to know me as a person and injecting humor into the interview helped immensely.

Thanks for all of your help up until this point, and I will see you for the second session sometime soon, I’d imagine.

9-23-20

———–

Carole,

I know it’s been awhile; everything was delayed for me because of COVID and then travel restrictions for DOD.

I finally had my interview last week and just received confirmation that I passed! The best part is that I knew walking out of my interview that I had passed!

My last question tied directly to my best story, and the only one that had some solid humor attached, and I ended my interview with all three panel members laughing and fully engaged in the story! The story was so engaging that it continued with one of the interviewers as he walked me all the way out of the building.

As far as morphing, I only had to on a couple questions. I had practiced it so much though, morphing one story for each factor to almost any of the other factors that I didn’t even have to think about it, and in the end they came out fluidly and fit perfectly! Without practice I would probably have been lost scrambling for something to say.

Your coaching was completely on point, and not only was I cool, calm, and collected walking into my interview, and knew waking out that I had passed.

I can’t thank you enough for all of the help!

CLIENT INFORMATION FROM THE FBI

Just to give you a little information in case you want to share with your other clients, the FBI is not doing panel interviews at the regional offices like they usually do, but is instead doing them at local field offices. While this helps to reduce long distance travel, it is causing a lot of slow downs and stress on recruitment as field offices have not been trained/prepared to host panel interviews. So if your other clients don’t have dates yet either, it may just be because their local office is adjusting to this major change in process.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR THE PHASE II INTERVIEW (feedback from clients)

Smaller offices use MASKS.

Larger facilities use PLEXIGASS

Whatever they use, just stay focused on letting them get to know YOU – THE PERSON!

DEEP SOUTH OR MILITARY — WHATEVER –

DROP THE “SIR” AND “MA’AM”

Easier said than done, but the words are too formal for this interview.

The “end-game” of this interview is for them to get to know YOU – the real YOU.

They are asking themselves

            “Would I want to sit in a car with this person for 8 hours?”

            “Who is who is this person?”

            “Do we want him or her on our team?”

Talk to these interviewers like they were “people” – coworkers.

This is the demeanor that works the best!

BE YOURSELF!

10-15-20

I wanted to let you know I passed phase II!

I definitely would not have been prepared without you!

I’m glad I purchased the premium package as your unlimited advice on my stories was crucial to helping me polish them.

If I could give any advice to future applicants it would be to follow all of your advice, especially about being yourself and trying to bring humor to the interview if possible.

 One more thing I think should really be reiterated as the agent who conducted the group pre-interview meeting/briefing as well as all three agents who interviewed me expressed…they are on your side!!! They desperately want you to succeed and pass the interview.

They are NOT comparing you to the other applicants. They just have to be able to “check all the boxes” while interviewing you to see if you have the qualities and characteristics they are looking for.

Every applicant who passes the interview is a win for the FBI. They need agents.

Knowing this should help calm your nerves. I was EXTREMELY nervous at first and my voice was even shaky during my very first response, but as soon as I got through that first one I just relaxed and told myself they wanted me to succeed. 

My ability to recall the details of my stories which were critical to answering the questions was not about memorization so much as extreme familiarity.

 I recorded each of my stories on my phone and listened to them over and over (until I was bored to tears!!)  just to make sure I wouldn’t draw a blank or leave out crucial details during the interview.

Carole, thanks again for your dedication to your profession in helping applicants succeed in the phase II interview!!!!!

I am extremely grateful to have found you!

10-12-20

Just wanted to pass along the information I learned today. I PASSED!!!

Thank you for all of your help. Such a great feeling knowing the agents consider me to be someone they want to work with and that I was able to give them that confidence.

Thank you for all of your interview coaching and for the additional words of advice that I’m sure extended beyond your services.

I greatly appreciate you and hope we can stay in touch.

10-08-20

CAROLE!! I PASSED!!! 

I can’t believe it. I just received an email congratulating me. Thank you for your help. I couldn’t have done it without your direction and your patience. I am lucky to have found you online.

FYI— No plexiglass. We all wore masks. Small office. Intimate environment. Nice agents. 

10-01-20

I PASSED!

Just received official word tonight that I passed my Phase 2 FBI interview!!! I’m so excited I wanted to let you know immediately. 

As for the interview itself, my biggest advice is…and this should come as no surprise…be yourself. Wait, let me say it louder for the people in the back. BE YOURSELF

My interview was far from perfect. In fact, I had to skip a question at first and use the same story twice…BUT I feel that because I gave a wide variety of stories (professional, college, and personal) they really got to know me as a person. 

I was fairly confident before using your program, but I believe you really helped fine tune my skills and ensure I was fully prepared. Thank you so much. 

10-01-20

CAROLE!!!!!!!! I PASSED!!!!!! I CAN’T BELIEVE THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING RIGHT NOW!!!! THIS IS SUREAL!!! 

Thank you for all of your help, I couldn’t have done this without you. Your preparation was GOLDEN. 

I will say I was thrown off the cuff a few times but I stuck to the stories we went over and just kept talking. I knew my stories like my life depended on it, in fact I still catch myself telling the story to the trees outside.

When you said “BE YOURSELF” I took that literally in fact I was so much myself I really thought I screwed it up, but you were right. I didn’t try to impress them, I just showed them who I was. 

I cant  believe it!!! Thank you so much!!!!! 

I PASSED the FBI Interview! – week of September 21-25 – 2020

Hi Carole,

I just found out this morning, I passed!  Thank you for everything!  Your system certainly does work!

Two weeks before —

Just finished the interview.  

Glad it’s over, they asked two things I didn’t anticipate but I always gave a story.  

I couldn’t fit or adapt two strong stories of my bunch that I wanted to tell as my nerves simply neglected to access them in my memory until after it was over.  

Nonetheless I want to say thank you for all your help, I can see why you say you have to prepare for this interview and understand the 20-60-20 format.  

I got in my five points in at the end and tried to get them to know me personally.  Overall not sure how it went but I’m hoping for the best!  They were very professional and wrote the entire time as expected but overall I think I gave them a good picture of Michael.  It’s very easy to harp on it after the fact and it’s tempting to dissect and have regrets as with any interview.  I’ll let you know when I find out the outcome but I believe on little sleep and with nerves you really prepared me very well to make up for those shortcomings.

 I was extremely nervous at first but when I dove into the questions which I only hope were applicable to the question looking back, I felt prepared from all our work and it calmed me down quite a bit.  What really helped me was hearing the stories you told me of others who also felt it whizzed by and were unsure how it went or even worried it was a disaster.  Knowing it didn’t have to be perfect went a long way!

———-

 #2

I just received my Phase II testing results and I passed!!!!!

Your guidance and tough love along the way helped me tremendously. I want to thank you for everything!

The day before my interview (when I arrived in Atlanta) I felt confident and I was even a bit excited. I couldn’t wait to tell them all about me. During the interview, I was still a bit nervous but I was able to answer every question confidently.

By the end of the interview I was certain they knew much more about me than the last time. I even finished my interview a bit early.

I was prepared!!

Thanks again!!

———-

#3

Carole,

I know it’s been awhile; everything was delayed for me because of COVID and then travel restrictions for DOD.

I finally had my interview last week and just received confirmation that I passed!

The best part is that I knew walking out of my interview that I had passed!

As far as morphing, I only had to on a couple questions. I had practiced it so much though, morphing one story for each factor to almost any of the other factors that I didn’t even have to think about it, and in the end they came out fluidly and fit perfectly!

Without practice I would probably have been lost scrambling for something to say.

Your coaching was completely on point, and not only was I cool, calm, and collected walking into my interview, and knew waking out that I had passed.

I can’t thank you enough for all of the help!

———-

 #4

Hi Carole,

Thank you!

The interview went fine. It wasn’t perfect, by any stretch, but it was authentic and my answers were genuine. 

I think it is important to be confident in both your answers and body language, not worrying about trying to impress and make sure the interviewers know about you the person. Have your stories ready, but be comfortable morphing or coming up with new stories as well. 

Thanks again,


HEADED TO QUANTICO

Carole,

I just wanted to say “thank you” again, it’s hard to believe it was a year ago already that we were working together, but I wanted to let you know I head to Quantico!

I really felt so prepared and organized! and when I “froze” at the beginning, I knew exactly what to do and what to say- I immediately went to what we practiced and prepared for and was able to morph stories to make them fit where needed.  I left feeling very confident! 

Thank you for preparing me for that Phase II interview with your time, patience, wisdom and encouragement.  You are blessing, thanks again for helping me on this journey. 

I could not recommend you more.  

——-

 8-22-20

SELF-PREPARATION PURCHASE

Thank you so much for the study material.

I passed my FBI Phase 2!

PREPARING FOR FBI (PHASE II/FED LAW)?

FINANCES AN ISSUE?  

I realize budgets can make a difference regarding what you can afford – or want to invest.

Here are some possible options for you.

BOOK RECOMMENDATION

A book recommendation – quiz book/quick read (learn how to write a good “behavioral story.”) 

(This book link is included in Premier Package)

You can purchase on Amazon.

Boost Your Interview IQ – Second Edition (white cover – published – 2012) – for a quick brush up on Behavioral Interviewing as well as other questions. It’s a quiz and you determine which is the strongest answer.

FROM SOMEONE WHO DID NOT PASS THE FBI EXAM THE FIRST TIME

“Boost Your Interview IQ” by Carole Martin provides you with the essential skills and techniques you need to apply in any real life interviewing scenario. If you are truly interested in exploring the fundamentals and learning the essentials of job interviewing, then this book will be an important guide.

Before I read Carole Martin’s book, I must admit that I was lost when it came to interviews. As a young lawyer with three years of experience in my field, I truly thought that I knew everything it took to effectively express myself and market my skills to a potential employer. I had conducted countless client interviews myself, and so I thought I had most question and answer techniques down to a science. But when I flunked my first major interview for a dream job with a prestigious employer, I realized that I needed help from an expert. In hindsight, I wish I had sought out this information earlier.  Perhaps because I was too accustomed to being sought out by others as an expert in my own field of law that I did not realize I needed an expert’s advice on basic interview techniques. 

I am thankful that I contacted Carole Martin and found her book “Boost Your Interview IQ.”  I feel that I have begun the journey towards interview success. In my opinion, learning real life interview techniques should not be about “gimmicks” or “tricks”.  Instead, Carole Martin provides a wide-range of examples that point you in the right direction.  You will learn through a question and answer technique designed by Carole that will give you a thorough understanding of the basics.  Reading this book is the beginning of a journey that will equip you with the essentials of interviewing.  So if you are curious about how to interview, then I recommend you read this book first.  The rest is up to you!”

OR, YOU CAN DO THE SELF-PREPARATION PACKAGE  –

From a Client — 5/11/19

Carole, 

I wanted to let you know that I passed phase two.

 I am grateful for your program – I could not have done it without your help.

I did just as we talked about and was myself. I made sure they could see how bad I wanted the job and I think that goes a long way. Thanks again, 

(ONE STORY CRITIQUE AND A CHAT WITH ME INCLUDED)

FBI – PHASE II

“Self-Preparation Package”

https://fbiinterviewcoach.com/fbi-package-3.php

I will critique a story for you with this package – important to know if you’re writing the stories in an acceptable manner.

If, you decide to add on the coaching (we take into account what you have already purchased – and I never charge for the same thing twice.)

FED-LAW ENFORCEMENT INTERVIEW PREP

“Self-Preparation Package” and start the prep now.

https://fbiinterviewcoach.com/federal-package-3.php

$199

I will critique a story for you with this package – important to know if you’re writing the stories in an acceptable manner.

If, you decide to add on the coaching (we take into account what you have already purchased – and I never charge for the same thing twice.)

***** 

PURCHASED – SELF-PREP

Received 5/18/19

So very happy. Thank you for your guidance. Preparation of stories is the key. Luckily I had a whole bank of them to pull from.

Can’t stress enough how important it was to be yourself and be personable with the agents as well.

(INCLUDED ONE STORY CRITIQUE AND A BRIEF CHAT)

FROM A SECOND-TIMER – didn’t pass the first time.

“I read your entire guide and book and I wish I knew all that information before I went to my first interview with them. I would have nailed it back then. It opened my eyes to a ton of mistakes I made back then.”

“I HAVE NEVER WORKED IN FEDERAL LAW – OF ANY KIND.” Carole Martin, The Interview Coach

I WORK WITH PEOPLE FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE – IN ALL FIELDS www.interviewcoach.com

I ALSO COACH CANDIDATES WHO ARE APPLYING FOR FEDERAL LAW ENFORCEMENT JOBS

https://fbiinterviewcoach.com

 (ALL AGENCIES – 1811 jobs)

A thanks to all my clients I’ve worked with – you make me proud.

I am honored to work with the young men and women who are seeking to make a difference in the lives of others.

Their goal is to uphold the Constitution and to keep the nation safe from destruction.

I share with you their words as to how our work together has taken them a step closer to their dream to be an FBI – or other Federal Agency agent.

8.04.20

I just wanted to let you know that I received the official word today that I passed Phase 2!! 

I can’t thank you enough for your words of encouragement, advice, and preparation assistance. 

 I know for a fact that it was your structured approach to answering behavioral interview questions that prepared me the most and kept me organized throughout the process. 

There were so many other tips you provided along the way that I really benefited from as well (don’t be rigid/tell stories as if speaking with colleagues, be myself/show personality in my answers, don’t be afraid to use “I” and be specific to MY accomplishments/actions, how to morph stories, etc.).  

I am so very glad someone recommended your service, and I would definitely recommend you to other candidates. 

It was money well spent!  Thank you again!!  

————-

SECRET SERVICE

Hi Carole,

I wanted to let you know the interview went very good and I got a passing score today.

I’d recommend using the same material that I used. Thanks again!

 Thanks for all the help!

“Received my results back from my phase 2 interview and I passed!!”

GOOD NEWS   \o/

Hi Carole,

I just received my results back from my phase 2 interview and I passed!! I wanted to thank you for your tough guidance through my preparation. I really gave them an impression of who “I really was.”

 The biggest thing I did was listen and be myself.

Question, factor, story is all I kept saying in my head.

I had them laughing in the beginning with my sense of humor so that helped me relax and just use my experience to guide me through.

Lastly, I used most of my stories but had to morph a couple of times. You were right I actually had stories come to me that I didn’t prepare, which was fine.

Thank you so much, I really appreciate everything!

NOT SO GOOD NEWS

FROM A CLIENT

So, I got an email today stating that due to implementations to the special agent selection system,

Phase 2 results may be delayed up to 90 days.

Have you heard of this before?

My reply —“NO.”

We all know “nothing” is normal – so expect delays in every direction of this process.

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING YOURSELF…..from clients who passed Phase II.

————

7.23.20

Hi Carole,

I just received my results back from my phase 2 interview and I passed!! I wanted to thank you for your tough guidance through my preparation. My 5 points came in handy and my “Why the FBI” Really gave them an impression of who I really was. The biggest thing I did was listen and be myself.

Question, factor, story is all I kept saying in my head. I had them laughing in the beginning with my sense of humor so that helped me relax and just use my experience to guide me through.

Lastly, I used most of my stories but had to morph a couple of times. You were right, I actually had stories come to me that I didn’t prepare, which was fine. Thank you so much, I really appreciate everything!

————

6.25.20

At the end of it, I could tell they liked me. I was 100% myself, I did not try to tell the stories perfectly, I tried to tell them like I would tell them to my coworkers. I fumbled, I was awkward, but I was me. 

And that was good enough for them.

Thank you Carole for all of your encouragement, for telling me to not be a perfectionist in the interview, to not overthink.

That was the best advice, and I truly needed to hear that constructive criticism.

 I truly felt prepared, relaxed, and ready to let these Agents get to know “me.”

I AM AN INTERVIEW COACH – I have never worked in Federal Law of any kind.

Carole Martin, The Interview Coach

I WORK WITH PEOPLE FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE – IN ALL FIELDS www.interviewcoach.com

I ALSO COACH CANDIDATES WHO ARE APPLYING FOR FEDERAL LAW ENFORCEMENT JOBS

 (ALL AGENCIES – 1811 jobs)  

**********************

What I offer is TIPS, TOOLS, TECHNIQUES, AND FEEDBACK. The rest is up to you. I have no way of controlling what you do with the information.

I HAVE HAD MY PROGRAM FOR THE PAST 15 YEARS.

I DO NOT HAVE INSIDER INFORMATION – OR QUESTIONS

I HAVE NOT TAKEN THE TEST MYSELF.

I HAVE WORKED WITH OVER 2000 CANDIDATES FROM ALL OF THE AGENCIES.

MY CLIENTS LEARN HOW TO “INTERVIEW”“HOW TO HAVE CONFIDENCE IN PRESENTING THEMSELVES”  —- AND PRIMARILY HOW TO “BE PREPARED” FOR THESE INTERVIEWS.

I HAVE HAD CLIENTS REFERRED TO ME BY INTERNAL BUREAU EMPLOYEES AS HIGH AS DIRECTOR.

For my credentials and experience.

https://fbiinterviewcoach.com/about.php

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW MOST ABOUT ME IS – “I CARE – I WANT YOU TO PASS”

I WILL HELP YOU – BUT ULTIMATELY IT’S UP TO YOU!.

MY PROGRAM

I realize budgets can make a difference regarding what you can afford – or want to invest.

POSSIBLE OPTIONS

A book recommendation – quiz book  – to teach you how to write a good “behavioral story.” 

(This book link is included in Premier Package.)

You can purchase on Amazon.

Boost Your Interview IQ – Second Edition (white cover – published – 2012) – for a quick brush up on Behavioral Interviewing as well as other questions. It’s a quiz and you determine which is the strongest answer.

The book is available at many bookstores.

On line —- Paperback and Kindle

FROM SOMEONE WHO DID NOT PASS THE FBI EXAM THE FIRST TIME

“Boost Your Interview IQ” by Carole Martin provides you with the essential skills and techniques you need to apply in any real life interviewing scenario. If you are truly interested in exploring the fundamentals and learning the essentials of job interviewing, then this book will be an important guide.

Before I read Carole Martin’s book, I must admit that I was lost when it came to interviews. As a young lawyer with three years of experience in my field, I truly thought that I knew everything it took to effectively express myself and market my skills to a potential employer. I had conducted countless client interviews myself, and so I thought I had most question and answer techniques down to a science. But when I flunked my first major interview for a dream job with a prestigious employer, I realized that I needed help from an expert. In hindsight, I wish I had sought out this information earlier.  Perhaps because I was too accustomed to being sought out by others as an expert in my own field of law that I did not realize I needed an expert’s advice on basic interview techniques. 

I am thankful that I contacted Carole Martin and found her book “Boost Your Interview IQ.”  I feel that I have begun the journey towards interview success. In my opinion, learning real life interview techniques should not be about “gimmicks” or “tricks”.  Instead, Carole Martin provides a wide-range of examples that point you in the right direction.  You will learn through a question and answer technique designed by Carole that will give you a thorough understanding of the basics.  Reading this book is the beginning of a journey that will equip you with the essentials of interviewing.  So if you are curious about how to interview, then I recommend you read this book first.  The rest is up to you!”

You can do the self-help package  –

“Self-Preparation Package” and start the prep now.

https://fbiinterviewcoach.com/fbi-package-3.php

UPGRADE PRICES BELOW – ADD BASIC OR PREMIER PACKAGES.

I will critique a story for you with this package – important to know if you’re writing the stories in an acceptable manner.

If, you decide to add on the coaching (we take into account what you have already purchased – and never charge for the same thing twice.)

——————–

Client who passed the Phase II with only the Self-Prep package – 8/22/19

Dear Carole, 

Against all odds, I passed my Phase 2 Test thanks to your materials. I was under a time crunch and had only 36 hours to prepare because my grad school program – backed nearly right up to my interview date. 

If it hadn’t been for your materials (I did the self-study packet due to time constraints), I would not have known how to properly format my responses.

As you know, I am not allowed to say anything about how the test was conducted, but I can say that your packets were very helpful. 

OTHER PACKAGES

“Basic Package”

https://fbiinterviewcoach.com/fbi-package-2.php

$399

Add Basic Package after purchase of Materials Only Package for $200

Order Link – Click to upgrade from materials to Basic Package

“Premier Package”

https://fbiinterviewcoach.com/fbi-package-1.php

$599

FBI
Add Premier Coaching Package after purchase of Materials Only Pkg $400

THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE BASIC PACKAGE AND THE PREMIER PACKAGE IS TIME SPENT WITH ME –

               EITHER IN COACHING (2 ½  HOURS vs 1 HOUR and 40 MINUTES)

               AS WELL AS THE WRITING FOR YOU – YOUR 5-POINTS*

                WHAT YOU HAVE TO OFFER THE BUREAU.

*The five-point system is a summary of what you bring to the position The system is aligned with your five fingers to keep you focused and succinct.

A template is provided for you to write your own with the Basic Package.

Basic package – you receive a template and I will help you with what to write.

Premier package – I write the 5 points for you based on our sessions

Also can be used as a summary at the end of the interview.

“Before I leave I would like to summarize what I would bring to the job.”

Questions/problems – let me know.

Best wishes

Carole

A RED LETTER DAY – I PASSED – I PASSED – I PASSED — FBI Interview

RECEIVED 6-25-20

Carole,
Add me to your list of successes because I totally passed.
THANK YOU CAROLE!

I doubt I could have done with without your help.

—————

Carole,
I just wanted to let you know that I received an email from the FBI this morning saying I passed phase II.
Thank you for all the help and candid feedback you’ve given me, I don’t think I would have passed
without it. Hopefully the rest of the hiring process is smooth sailing.
Thanks again

————-

Carole,
I received the “good news” today. I passed Phase II!
Obviously I cannot disclose much of anything due to the NDA, but
here is what I will say:

I remember going in there, all smiles, and cool; calm; collected, as
you advised. The agents were very nice and welcoming. I thought
alright, this won’t be so bad.

The first two questions went great, then the next 11 came. Almost
every single felt like a curveball. I kept thinking, I had the perfect
story for that but I already used it.” I had that thought for almost
Every. Single. Question.

So what did I do? I took a minute to think,

I morphed,
I drank some water, I laughed to myself,

I thought on my feet. I answered the question. Even if it was with a
story I had not prepared…which happened a lot.

I took a solid 30 seconds after each question was asked to identify
the factor, then pick my story.

Or at least I tried to. Sometimes I was like, well I have no idea
what the factor is, but I have an answer!

I walked out of there thinking well, I made them smile and laugh,
got a lot of nodding, and most of all: I answered the questions.

Here’s what is even funnier: I used just over half of the stories I
had prepared. The rest I pulled from the depths of my long-term
memory storage, on the spot. This, I will say, is necessary to pass.

You HAVE to be able to think on your feet.

I am also proud to say — I did not skip any questions, and even
when I did not have the “perfect” story for a few of the questions, I told myself, “Just give them a dang story.” And I did. And it worked!

At the end of it, I could tell they liked me. I was 100% myself, I
did not try to tell the stories perfectly, I tried to tell them like I
would tell them to my coworkers. I fumbled, I was awkward, but I
was me.

And that was good enough for them.

Thank you Carole for all of your encouragement, for telling me to
not be a perfectionist in the interview, to not overthink.

That was the best advice, and I truly needed to hear that
constructive criticism.

I truly felt prepared, relaxed, and ready to let these Agents get to
know “me.”

All the best,

—————

NOTICE RECENTLY RECEIVED FROM A POSTPONED
“MARCH” INTERVIEW CANDIDATE

You will be invited the next time we are interviewing in your region.
Please continue to be on the lookout for an invitation in the upcoming months.

Thanks for your patience.

————–

FEEDBACK FROM A CLIENT

And yes, I listened to the recordings as you suggested. It really
helped me “massage” my stories. Your 5 points were the key
where i used the finger method you taught. The other thing is try
not to “memorize’ the stories. It definitely flows better when you’re
telling it from your feelings.

The other key thing is to relax. The agents saw how nervous I was
and repeated emphasized that they understand the feeling I’m going
through, they were once in my seat too.

SOME MOVEMENT WITHIN THE FBI INTERVIEWING PROCESS

6/10/20

FINALLY –

SOME MOVEMENT WITHIN THE FBI INTERVIEWING PROCESS

The Meet and Greet is being held on line.

The Phase II interview is still being done in-person.

I have four clients scheduled for interviews in the next two weeks – LA Office

I have one client schedule for interview –  Phoenix Office

*****************

PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF YOU ARE RE-SCHEDULED AFTER A POSTPONEMENT – I WILL GIVE YOU A BRUSH UP SESSION.

I WANT YOU TO BE “FRESH” FOR YOUR INTERVIEW.

Carole Martin, The Interview Coach

“Thank you so much. I was able to pass on the first time”

Despite the overall process being on hold
I would like to express to you how grateful I am for your services.

You prepared me so well that I never once felt during the interview
that I did not have an appropriate response.

Your assistance made it that I was able to not only align myself
with the organizations key factors, but I was also able to provide
them with a complete visual of who I am as an individual. – the
real ME.

Thank you so much I was able to pass on the first time because of
you, I can’t thank you enough!!!!!!

Even the FBI isn’t powerful enough to stop COVID-19

I know that many interviews are being postponed, but postponed does not mean — cancelled.  So, I encourage you to keep preparing.

Once they decide that we can go back to our everyday lives, I am sure they will jump fast.

I am very flexible – I am in CA – “lockdown,” and have more time to spend reading stories or talking to clients or potential clients.

THIS IS FROM A CLIENT

Yes, that’s correct. They have canceled all travel unless it’s mission critical.

My interview was here in DC but the agents fly in from all over the country so I believe that’s why it was canceled. Or maybe because of the close proximity. All of the above I’m sure.

PHASE II – PHASE III  — INTERVIEW POSTPONED?

Please let me know what is happening with your interview. I am offering to do “brush-up” sessions with anyone what has completed the coaching and are waiting for a new interview date.

Most people want to have the information  – “fresh.”

I also am willing to read whatever you want to have critiqued. Just send whatever on over.

PROSPECITIVE CLIENTS

If the process has been slowed down for you and you’re hesitant to get started – you can still prepare. This is a good thing because you can get a head-start.

Here are some options that are not “coaching sessions,” but a way to begin to prepare – just in case they open up full-throttle.

MY PROGRAM

I realize budgets can make a difference regarding what you can afford – or want to invest.

All I can tell you is that I have worked with over 2000 candidates in the past 15 years with a high rate of them passing as a result.

“it was your coaching that made the difference…”

Carole,
I passed my second try at Phase 2, and I know it was your coaching that made the difference. I walked in my first time over a year ago with confidence that my prior job experience was more than enough and failed. I walked in this time, humble but ready to share more of myself and be genuine, and as you already knew, that made all the difference.

I gave them as much as I could in my first question to include my five points in case I didn’t have an opportunity later; as it turns out that was a very good move. I definitely had to morph almost all my answers. Only one question did I have to pull a story that I had not previously prepared.

Again thank you.

———————-
Since the federal government’s hiring process can take up to two years, and the fact that you can get disqualified at any time during the various phases, I’m applying with as many agencies as I can.

I’m excited to share that an opportunity presented itself to me in the private sector recently that I hadn’t even considered before, working at xxx’s world headquarters in their Security Operations division.

I applied and was invited to interview and was able to utilize all of the same interview techniques we worked on. 

After a month of waiting, I was offered the position on Friday! There are so many different jobs there, including internationally, that I can use my education and federal internship experience with that I’m excited to see where this takes me while I’m continuing with the federal agency hiring process.

Who knows, it could end up being a path I want to stick with for my career.

Thank you so much again for everything!

PROPORTIONS OF A BEHAVIORAL ANSWER

(sample edited by me)

The proportions of the story are almost more important than the story itself.
 

ALWAYS START WITH THE FACTOR YOU ARE GOING FOR FIRST

FACTOR –   Motivation

PROBLEM/SITUATION  (20%) 5-7 sentences

Setup –

There was a situation, where the high school field hockey program that I had once played for, was suffering miserably, losing every single game by multiple goals and standing last the league, year after year with no hope of that changing.  

Having done very well as an athlete while I was in the program and having gone on to play in college, I was approached by the school with the opportunity to rebuild the program. 

I saw this as an awesome way to give back and pay it forward, so I accepted the head coaching position.   

I was excited and eager to get started, but was soon warned this would not be an easy undertaking as the girls were notorious for being disrespectful, lazy, and as one teacher put it quite frankly “won’t amount to anything”.

MY THOUGHTS WERE…(thoughts, feelings, challenges are important to your story to show them who you are and how you operate)

Transition sentence – feelings, thoughts…

I felt pressured. This was an intense assignment, and I knew I would have to put time and energy into the preparation if my team was to do a good job. 

ACTION (60%) 7 -9 steps — more or less


”WHAT I DID WAS……” (use this phrase to signal to them and to you that the main part of the story is beginning. Once you begin the ACTON you can’t go back to the problem.)  —

So what I did was, I set up a few informal “open hockey nights” to get to know the girls better for myself.

I knew I didn’t have a lot of time to earn their respect, something I knew was important for success, so I set the tone early by deciding to show the girls what I expected rather than just telling them. 

I decided to model the behavior I wanted to see.   

They were shocked when they saw I had my stick and mouth guard, and was going to play WITH them.  (GOOD ACTION STEP)

That night I out hustled them, beat them to the ball, used phenomenal stick work to maneuver around them, verbalized clearly to my teammates where I was going and where I needed them to go, and most importantly I was intentional about demonstrating a very positive, confident, energy on the field. LONG SENTENCE—LAUNDRY LIST – THIS IS YOUR ACTION – 60% — WORTH BREAKING UP

(I AM NOT A FAN OF LAUNDRY LISTS – BY MAKING THE POINTS DEPENDENT STATEMENTS THEY HAVE MORE OF AN IMPACT – ESPECIALLY IF SOMEONE – THEY – WILL BE TAKING NOTES.)

Edited by me:

That night I out-hustled the players. Some of my tactics included beating them to the ball. I think they were too shocked to move.

I also used phenomenal stick work to maneuver around them.

One thing I did was to verbalize clearly to my teammates where I was going and where they needed to go.

And, most importantly, I was intentional about demonstrating a very positive, confident energy on the field.

When there were water breaks I took the time to walk around making sure I talked with each and every girl, asking how their summer was going, their favorite things about hockey, making sure they knew I noticed and appreciated they were there. 

THEIR REACTION?.  

RESULT (20%) —-  3-5 sentences

 As a result, I felt calm and confident while giving the presentation and that helped the others feel the same. I received an “A” for my portion of the project.  

The team’s overall grade was an A+.

I received many comments from my team and my professor telling me what a great job I did.  One team member told me that he had never felt more organized on a project.  

KUDO

(If there was any kind of kudo or comment given – be sure to include that in the end of your story.) Third party endorsement is like a “gold star.”

MAKE IT CONVERSATIONAL – TALK LIKE YOU TALK TO COLLEAGUES

 
The structure above is the “template.”

Once you write the story, you will turn it into a conversational dialogue.

Make it a conversation like you were sharing the story with others.

Would you talk this way if you were talking to professional colleagues? 

We tend to write more formally than when we speak – especially to colleagues. These people who are interviewing you are equivalent to your colleagues.  – and may become your colleagues one day.

At least you hope that they will be.

Way To Go – “I Passed” Emails

WAY TO GO!

2/03/20 – 2ND TIMER

I hope all is well. I wanted to let you know that I received a passing score! I can’t thank you enough for your work, support and encouragement. From your personal coaching to the exercises, it made a difference. It helped me gain more confidence in myself and allowed me to sit back and pause after each question to give me time to paint the best story. I can also say that this interview was better than my first, especially with regards to laying out the (20/60/20).

Again, thank you for your time and support! It was truly a pleasure working with you.

I recommend you to anyone else who finds themselves struggling with interviews. 

Some recent “I passed” emails.

***

Female – 2/07/20

  I wanted to reach out and inform you that I passed the Phase II interview. I could not have passed without the preparation, guidance, and feedback you provided. I am typically extremely nervous when interviewing but when I entered the room I had an answer for everything. I can honestly say that I have never felt more confident during an interview then I did during the Phase II interview. 

  I largely equate that to the preparation of the stories and the exercises we completed together. Thank you again!

Male – 2/03/20

I hope all is well. I wanted to let you know that I received a passing score! I can’t thank you enough for your work, support and encouragement. From your personal coaching to the exercises, it made a difference. It helped me gain more confidence in myself and allowed me to sit back and pause after each question to give me time to paint the best story. I can also say that this interview was better than my first, especially with regards to laying out the SAR (20/60/20).

Again, thank you for your time and support! It was truly a pleasure working with you.

I recommend you to anyone else who finds themselves struggling with interviews. 

Male – 1/29/20

Got the news last night. I PASSED!!! Thank you again for all your help. I know you continue to search for the reasons some pass and others do not. Of course, I do not have that answer, but I can share with you what I think helped me pass the second time. 

1) I left my “suit” at the door. I am an attorney, no doubt about it. But I spoke to the interviewers like I would to some friendly colleagues after work, not like I was talking to a panel of judges. 

2) In preparing I always had emotional intelligence in the back of my mind. I was thinking about opportunities in my stories to discuss my feelings and the feelings of others and how this impacted my decision making. I do not think they are looking for robots.

3) I spent a lot of time, as you know, working on my “why.” And I also went back and listened to the recordings of our sessions. I also sent you a lot of stories and applied your criticisms. This really nailed the story telling formula and proportions into my mind.

Other than that, I think the rest is just putting in the time to find and practice stories that match the eight factors. Having a couple stories for each factor, even if you have to morph them is a safe bet. I think just sounding prepared gets you further than most people think. 

Thank you again. Regardless of whether I make it through the rest of the process, it was a victory for me to beat this the second time, and I can’t thank you enough for all your help.

***

Keep up the good work.

Carole

Linkedin calls them SOFT SKILLS.

Soft skills

LinkedIn also ranked “soft” skills – the interpersonal qualities employers want most in their staff. The list looked very similar to the 2019 rankings, with creativity holding onto the top spot.

However, emotional intelligence also made an appearance in this year’s top five. This is the ability to perceive, evaluate and respond to both your own emotions and those of others.

LinkedIn said this emphasized the “importance of how we respond to and interact with colleagues.”

The top 5 most in-demand soft skills globally

  1. Creativity
  2. Persuasion
  3. Collaboration
  4. Adaptability
  5. Emotional intelligence

This article first appeared on CNBC https://www.cnbc.com/2020/01/17/blockchain-is-the-most-in-demand-job-skill-in-2020-says-linkedin.html 

Check out what he has to say about EQ.

From someone who passed – check out what he has to say about EQ.

Got the news last night. I PASSED!!! Thank you again for all your help. I know you continue to search for the reasons some pass and others do not. Of course, I do not have that answer, but I can share with you what I think helped me pass the second time. 

1) I left my “suit” at the door. I am an attorney, no doubt about it. But I spoke to the interviewers like I would to some friendly colleagues after work, not like I was talking to a panel of judges. 

2) In preparing I always had emotional intelligence in the back of my mind. I was thinking about opportunities in my stories to discuss my feelings and the feelings of others and how this impacted my decision making. I do not think they are looking for robots.

3) I spent a lot of time, as you know, working on my “why.” And I also went back and listened to the recordings of our sessions. I also sent you a lot of stories and applied your criticisms. This really nailed the story telling formula and proportions into my mind.

Other than that, I think the rest is just putting in the time to find and practice stories that match the eight factors. Having a couple stories for each factor, even if you have to morph them is a safe bet. I think just sounding prepared gets you further than most people think. 

Thank you again. Regardless of whether I make it through the rest of the process, it was a victory for me to beat this the second time, and I can’t thank you enough for all your help.

Something new to think about during the interview – Special Agent and Intelligence Analyst positions.

I have been reading a lot about Emotional Intelligence and realizing it is an important part of passing the FBI interviews – SA and IA. (Also know as EQ/EI)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emotional_intelligence

I believe it is how you deal with failure. Are you able to accept and re-group? Or, are do you give up.

What did you learn from the failure? How did it help you in the long run? Are you able to get back up and try again? Are you able to extend help to others who are struggling?

You might want to do a little reading about EQ – it is about how you behave in negative situations.

(roll with the punches – learn and move on – adapt – take constructive criticism as a learning experience) It’s all a part of you and your ability to “cope.”

How Emotionally Intelligent Are You? 14 signs you have high EQ.https://charterforcompassion.org/gaining-emotional-strength/how-emotionally-intelligent-are-you-here-s-how-to-tell?gclid=CjwKCAjwkenqBRBgEiwA-bZVtklrwZWdsJaReGhP4QCWcH-kW6EeMasLtyMHxtEVtggev78zUrYZBRoCySgQAvD_BwE

FBI Coaching Feedback – 2020

“My interview went pretty terribly. I was calm cool and confident right up until I actually sat down in front of them, the recorder turned on, and Question 1 was asked.

I became so nervous I literally FORGOT to give my 5 points. Just left them out completely!

I was kicking myself for it the entire time.

 And then at the end, when I could’ve taken the opportunity to do a quick summary of my 5 points to wrap up, I again forgot, and instead said thank you and quickly left.

I kicked myself for it again when I got about halfway down the hallway. 

I’d say about half of my stories actually matched up to the questions they were asking me.

And based on their facial expressions, they were confused.

But I just gave them a story. It didn’t fit perfectly and it wasn’t exactly what they asked for but it was a story and it demonstrated a factor.  

Additionally, I spilled an entire pitcher of water mid-interview. That’s right. Not a few drops. Not the cup. The entire pitcher of water. (There was a complication with a button. Who puts a button on a pitcher of water anyway?!).

So needless to say, there were a few tears on the way home as I coped with the loss. “

From The Coach  –

Carole Martin, The Interview Coach

YOU POOR THING – HOW COULD EVERYTHING HAVE GONE WRONG?

BUT…

“today, to my complete and utter shock, I got the email that

 I passed!

There were a hundred things I would’ve said differently and done differently but all the work we did together did miracles.

Everything I was able to get across to them was due to our preparation.

 We did so much work on my stories not even my HORRENDOUS nerves were enough to derail me. That says quite a lot. 

I do wish I was able to relax a bit more and show them my true self, but through the stories they seem to have understood exactly who I am. For that, I truly thank you. You helped me shape my stories to accurately and appropriately depict me in my best light. 

I can’t possibly thank you enough for your immense help. 

—————————————————

From The Coach —

I can’t believe it. GOOD FOR YOU.

Remember, I kept telling you it wasn’t about the story or what you did – it was your “EQ” emotional intelligence.

You rolled with the punches, and kept on going – talk about “ADAPTING.”

I AM SO PROUD OF YOU!

YOUR ANSWERS TO BEHAVIORAL QUESTIONS – STORIES

One of the secrets of passing Phase II is to make your stories – interesting – as though you were telling them to a friend.

I think a former client says it best about the “story” responses to “behavioral questions.”

Marine Captain –

I think the biggest impact for me personally was getting in the habit of talking about my thought process/feelings, not just reciting a string of events.

Forcing me to write down all my stories also really helped with recall (I didn’t have to pause more than a couple seconds to answer any of the questions).

Interviewing for the FBI and Federal Agencies is NOT your everyday interview

Received from someone who DID NOT pass Phase II –

“I DIDN’T PASS PHASE II AND I WAS THE MOST QUALIFIED PERSON IN THE ROOM.”  (Very upset)

This is a very different interview. If you want to pass, you must be prepared to let them know

YOU the person – not the qualifications of the person.

The interviewers are BLIND – they know nothing about you.

It is your job to let them know you — THE PERSON.

The interviewers are not only looking for “qualified people” – they are looking for “special people” to be SPECIAL AGENTS.

I get calls from 2nd timers all the time – they didn’t pass the first time around. I ask them –

“DID THEY GET TO KNOW YOU — THE PERSON?’

Not one person ever said YES!

———————-

THIS IS NOT YOUR EVERYDAY INTERVIEW – PREPARATION IS KEY!

This is from a Second-time around candidate who I coached.

Carole,
I passed my second try at Phase 2, and I know it was your coaching that made the difference. I walked in my first time over a year ago with confidence that my prior job experience was more than enough and failed. I walked in this time, humble but ready to share more of myself and be genuine, and as you already knew, that made all the difference.

I gave them as much as I could in my first question to include my five points in case I didn’t have an opportunity later; as it turns out that was a very good move. I definitely had to morph almost all my answers. Only one question did I have to pull a story that I had not previously prepared.

Again thank you.

———————-
MORE SUCCESS STORIES AND ADVICE FROM THOSE WHO PASSED

Hi Carole,

I hope all is well. I just wanted to let you know that I received the email today stating that I had passed Phase II. I want to thank you for all of your help as I would have had a difficult time getting through that panel interview without you.

It just goes to show it doesn’t matter what your background is ( me being just a sales guy).

Just some things to touch on for your next candidates that I took away from you.

Be yourself!!! do your best to let them know who you are was great advice, try and speak to them as if u were telling a story to your buddy…professionally obviously.

Use details which I actually think I lacked on when speaking.

Also its ok to be nervous just go slow and think about your responses.

I found myself rushing through and had to catch myself and slow down.

Morphing was a huge factor as well, I caught myself doing it at least twice and thinking in my head wow this is a morph haha. Overall just another step closer to my goal, still not there yet and still have some work to do but its a good step. Thanks again.

————-

I got the green light today that I passed PH II! Thanks for the help over the past 2 weeks. I finished the interview in about 45 minutes which was way faster than I expected. I had a response for every question and morphed a few answers to fit them. Many of my stories were interchangeable between the competencies so I just picked the best one I felt was right. I also told a story that occurred just the day prior (on the flight) which helped show them truly the kind of person I am with strangers and my ability to draw from life experiences, big or small. 

I do feel that I could have spent more time telling them about myself but I had rushed through this part because I wanted to make sure I had enough time to answer all the questions. My advice, is take your time and make sure they have a good idea of your personal life and family. It wasn’t the perfect interview but I was able to get my humor in and got some consistent laughs and smiles out of them. This goes a long way and sets the tone for the rest of the interview so break the ice early. If you’re not naturally funny then don’t force it…I am at sparing moments so it worked well for the interview. They did seem genuinely interested in the stories I told. I had a few follow up questions after some stories which seemed to be more for their personal interest.

Overall, it was a pretty relaxed interview and I was able to show the type of person I am and what I have to offer through my stories and experiences. Thanks again and I’m one step closer to my dreams.

Like Others, you can pass your FBI or Fed interview

With the right coaching from the right person – Carole Martin, The Interview Coach

______

FBI – Phase II – SA

LAW ENFORCEMENT —- PASSING THIS JUNE, JULY, AUGUST

“I cannot speak highly enough about your coaching! My stories were on point, my confidence was through the roof, and I talked for the entire hour. I had the agents chuckling at some of my stories, and one had to put the pencil down to shake out her wrist she was writing so much. The difference between my first interview and this second attempt were night and day! Thank you for your help and I highly recommend your program to anyone who is serious about passing ANY interview!”

______

FBI – Phase III – IA

“I’m letting you know that I passed Phase III with your excellent help. You asked me the same kinds of questions that the interviewers asked me. I wasn’t surprised by anything. You really guided me in making my stories more personable and interesting. I saw a few smiles from the interviewers at times. The coaching put me more at ease, which is big for someone who gets incredibly anxious for interviews. Your coaching no doubt helped me get through it successfully, even though we started just a few days before the interview. “

______

FBI – Phase II – SA

“I wanted to let you know that I passed Phase 2.  Thank you for your help and tough feedback. I believe the thing you taught me that was most impactful was for me to talk more about my feelings and obstacles rather than just saying an action. This helped the interviewers learn more about me as a person and presented a better picture of who I am.”

______

FBI/DEA – PASSED

“I’m pleased to tell you that I passed phase II with the FBI!

Everything we did together was crucial in my preparation for success. Your method is spot on.

Your coaching gave me a lot of confidence and taught me how to tell better stories.

I ended having to think back to a story I did previously practice and your method allowed me to tell the story in a logical method.

I was able to think quickly on my feet and present myself well.

I applied what I learned for my DEA interview and passed that first time as well!”

______

FBI – PHASE TWO  – SA – SELF-PREP PACKAGE ONLY

Dear Carole, 

“Against all odds, I passed my Phase 2 Test thanks to your materials. I was under a time crunch and had only 36 hours to prepare because my grad school program backed nearly right up to my interview date. 

If it hadn’t been for your materials (I did the self-study packet due to time constraints), I would not have known how to properly format my responses. As you know, I am not allowed to say anything about how the test was conducted, but I can say that your packets were very helpful. “

Non-verbal Communication During Your Job Interview

Slouching is out!

It’s about demonstrating confidence – standing straight, making eye contact, and connecting with a good, firm handshake. That first impression can be a great beginning, or a quick ending to your interview.

Body movement or lack of

Once the interview begins you should be relaxed, use your hands in talking – most people do. Do not overdo anything! Small gestures with your hands in fine but when you start waving your arms around you are out-of-bounds and could strike out.

On the other hand the worst posture is to fold your arms across your chest. This is a hostile posture – very closed.

Sometimes women fold their arms this way because they are cold. Wear a sweater or jacket –  but don’t fold your arms over your chest.

Contact – The Hand Shake

The handshake is the first contact you will have with the interviewer. It’s often looked at as a telling gesture to judge the confidence of a person.

The interviewer extends his hand and you in turn extend your hand. If your hand is sweaty it will give an unpleasant feeling to the interchange. 

Image – Attire

          You are judged by how you look!

          Whether we like it or not – how you look – your general appearance – does set the impression for the rest of the interview.

         
          There is something else to take into consideration and that is the position that you are seeking. The idea is to look like someone who will fit in, but someone who could also represent the company to people outside the company.

Eye Contact

True – or – False? 

You should not look directly into the interviewers eyes as this may make him or her feel uncomfortable.

This is FALSE.

If you don’t look directly into the eyes of the interviewer it can be judged as a lack of confidence. When you talk to someone and your eyes are looking in another direction, the person feels as though you are not talking to them directly.

It may feel very uncomfortable for you to look directly into someone’s eyes but you need to look at the person while you talk. This doesn’t mean staring, but looking directly at the person you are addressing.

A tip to use that is taken from the people on tv who use “teleprompters.” They are looking at the teleprompter and reading their lines but it looks as though they are looking straight at the camera.

Smells

It is important not to smell – Good or Bad – during the interview!

If you smell bad – breath or body odor – that could be disastrous! Most people know that. But did you know that it could be equally disastrous to smell too good?

Colognes and Perfumes are great offenders to someone who cannot tolerate scents. Allergies or personal memories or preferences about scents can come into play during the interview and can be very distracting.

Ears

If you thought interviewing was only about answering questions, you’ve been missing the point. You’ve also been missing an opportunity to gather valuable information. Listening is one of the skills most underutilized by candidates. Most people go into the interview thinking and worrying about how they will answer the questions. They forget that they are there to find out about the job and the company and whether this is the right place for them. 

The bonus of listening is that you impress the interviewer by the fact that you have heard what was said, and sometimes what was not said. The best questions you can ask come as a result of listening. Turn up your listening and intuitive skills. Read between the lines!

Demeanor – Confidence

One of the most important factors a candidate can bring to the interview is self-confidence.

When you stand tall and look the interviewer in the eye while you give a firm handshake you will make an immediate good first impression.

Will you stand out from the competition with your confidence and demeanor?  If not –take the time to make some changes.

Passing the Secret Service Interview

Hello Carole,

I wanted to reach out to you and inform you that I passed my Secret Service Interview! You were spot on with the 8 law enforcement factors that helped shape my stories. Thanks to your coaching, the interview was easy! 

I walked in confident and telling myself, “you’ve got this, be yourself and don’t wear the military mask!” My stories were right in line with what they were asking and the 5 points you assisted with easily answered the “tell me about yourself” type question. I only had to slightly morph one story, but it was an easy transition and I made it work. 

To anyone reading this, I can attest to the great product you’ll receive from Carole Martin while pursuing your dream job in law enforcement. Listen to her feedback and apply it! The biggest piece of advice Carole mentioned to me was to be myself! BE YOURSELF, BE YOURSELF and BE YOURSELF! I showed my human side and not my military side and at one point I had the agents laughing at me based on some of the stories I talked about. I was able to easily connect with the agents through my stories and show them I am not a robot, but a man with similar goals.  

For those candidates without a military/police background, do not be intimated. Your experience, no matter what industry you are representing is just as if not more valid then those candidates with a military/police background. Again, do not be afraid to show yourself and your experiences! Have fun with the interview and relax!  

Carole, thank you again for your assistance and help the past few weeks, especially given the short turnaround from the time I was notified when my interview was scheduled. I will most definitely be recommending you and passing your name on to a few of my friends who want to pursue this kind of work. 

PREPARING FOR FBI (PHASE II/FED LAW)? FINANCES AN ISSUE?

Carole Martin, The Interview Coach

What I offer is TIP, TOOLS, TECHNIQUES, AND FEEDBACK. The rest is up to you. I have no way of controlling what you do with the information.

I realize budgets can make a difference regarding what you can afford – or want to invest.

Here are some possible options for you.

BOOK RECOMMENDATION

A book recommendation – quiz book/quick read (learn how to write a good “behavioral story.”) 

(This book link is included in Premier Package)

You can purchase on Amazon.

Boost Your Interview IQ – Second Edition (white cover – published – 2012) – for a quick brush up on Behavioral Interviewing as well as other questions. It’s a quiz and you determine which is the strongest answer.

The book is available at many bookstores.

On line —- Paperback and Kindle

FROM SOMEONE WHO DID NOT PASS THE FBI EXAM THE FIRST TIME

“Boost Your Interview IQ” by Carole Martin provides you with the essential skills and techniques you need to apply in any real life interviewing scenario. If you are truly interested in exploring the fundamentals and learning the essentials of job interviewing, then this book will be an important guide.

Before I read Carole Martin’s book, I must admit that I was lost when it came to interviews. As a young lawyer with three years of experience in my field, I truly thought that I knew everything it took to effectively express myself and market my skills to a potential employer. I had conducted countless client interviews myself, and so I thought I had most question and answer techniques down to a science. But when I flunked my first major interview for a dream job with a prestigious employer, I realized that I needed help from an expert. In hindsight, I wish I had sought out this information earlier.  Perhaps because I was too accustomed to being sought out by others as an expert in my own field of law that I did not realize I needed an expert’s advice on basic interview techniques. 

I am thankful that I contacted Carole Martin and found her book “Boost Your Interview IQ.”  I feel that I have begun the journey towards interview success. In my opinion, learning real life interview techniques should not be about “gimmicks” or “tricks”.  Instead, Carole Martin provides a wide-range of examples that point you in the right direction.  You will learn through a question and answer technique designed by Carole that will give you a thorough understanding of the basics.  Reading this book is the beginning of a journey that will equip you with the essentials of interviewing.  So if you are curious about how to interview, then I recommend you read this book first.  The rest is up to you!”

OR, YOU CAN DO THE SELF-HELP PACKAGE  –

From a Client — 5/11/19

Carole, 

I wanted to let you know that I passed phase two.

 I am grateful for your program – I could not have done it without your help.

I did just as we talked about and was myself. I made sure they could see how bad I wanted the job and I think that goes a long way. Thanks again, 

(ONE STORY CRITIQUE AND A CHAT INCLUDED)

FBI – PHASE II

“Self-Preparation Package” and start the prep now.

https://fbiinterviewcoach.com/fbi-package-3.php

I will critique a story for you with this package – important to know if you’re writing the stories in an acceptable manner.

If, you decide to add on the coaching (we take into account what you have already purchased – and never charge for the same thing twice.)

FED-LAW ENFORCEMENT INTERVIEW PREP

“Self-Preparation Package” and start the prep now.

https://fbiinterviewcoach.com/federal-package-3.php

$199

I will critique a story for you with this package – important to know if you’re writing the stories in an acceptable manner.

If, you decide to add on the coaching (we take into account what you have already purchased – and never charge for the same thing twice.)

***** 

PURCHASED – SELF-PREP

Received 5/18/19

So very happy. Thank you for your guidance. Preparation of stories is the key. Luckily I had a whole bank of them to pull from.

Can’t stress enough how important it was to be yourself and be personable with the agents as well.

(INCLUDED ONE STORY CRITIQUE AND A BRIEF CHAT)

WOMEN RULE THIS MONTH!

PHASE II – FBI Interview

KUDOS – KUDOS – KUDOS  — PASSED – PASSED – PASSED

APRIL/MAY

WOMEN RULE THIS MONTH

5/09/19

Out of the 4 people that I know that applied and made it to this phase I was the only one who passed to the next. Thank you so much for working with me. I used most of my stories, there was only one question that I couldn’t figure out what factor they were looking for so I morphed the story a bit and actually ended up combining two factors. It was such a great experience. At the beginning of our session, you told me that you weren’t sure how the feel of the interview would go and you suspect that the person can encourage a different atmosphere. I completely agree with this. The other two applicants from Oklahoma said they were nervous and that the interviewers were very cold – no smiles, no eye contact, nothing. 

I went in and the first thing I did was made a casual joke about the hotel room we were interviewing in. I received immediate smiles and they talked to me like I was a colleague. Relaxing at the beginning of the interview set the cadence for the rest of the interview. I even had some time to ask them questions at the end of the interview such as where they were from, if there were as nervous as I was and the most rewarding thing about their positions. 

I think my strongest part was my “why” section. They were extremely engaging with me between taking notes. I got some head nods and even a solid smile.

Again, thank you for your help. I don’t think I would have passed if I wasn’t as prepared as I was. 

*****

Listening to the audio of our sessions, incorporating your feedback into my stories, and rehearsing my stories were vital to my success.  Your framework of listening to the question, identifying the factor, and morphing a story worked flawlessly.  I learned how to open up and show “Kelly Ann” to the three agents a week ago.      

Once again, thank you so much for your guidance and support.  I highly recommend your coaching services and enjoyed your book, too.

***** 

PURCHASED – SELF-PREP

So very happy. Thank you for your guidance. Preparation of stories is the key. Luckily I had a whole bank of them to pull from. Can’t stress enough how important it was to be yourself and be personable with the agents as well.

(INCLUDED ONE STORY CRITIQUE AND A BRIEF CHAT WITH ME)

*****

5/13/19

I would like to inform you that I PASSED!!! 

I couldn’t have done it without you! Your help in prepping me, explaining to me the process, and telling me to be myself was crucial in being prepared and confident! But you didn’t just tell me! You were able to remind me who I am and what I should tell them!

I made them laugh multiple times and they smiled and wrote down when I corrected myself when I said girls instead of women. They seemed pleased. 

Anyway, thank you again! I would recommend you to other candidates in a heartbeat!

I PASSED!!! The interview went really well. I kinda fudged my five points but eventually got everything out that I needed to. And then the question responses just came so naturally. I morphed some and some I had the perfect stories for (I think writing about 30 of them helped!). I topped it off with a variation of the moose story and I think that was icing on the cake. I just kept thinking “chill the eff out and be yourself”. And when I left the room, I thought, “I nailed that”. Anyway, I could not have done it without you and your guidance!! Thank you thank you!!! Second time’s the charm for sure 🙂

————-

I just wanted to inform you that I passed my interview! I was very nervous but happy that I passed on my first try!

Thank you so much for all your help. It was very, very helpful! I learned so much from you and will use those tips for the future. 

I will most certainly recommend you to anyone applying to the FBI. Only I would recommend they don’t wait a few days before the interview date to get started =)

Can’t Afford Coaching?

CAN’T AFFORD – OR DON’T WANT TO SPEND/INVEST – OR, JUST DON’T HAVE ENOUGH TIME – CHECK OUT MY SELF-PREP PACKAGE

RECEIVED 05-02-19
“Just wanted to update you – I just received word that I passed Phase 2.

While we didn’t get a chance to do a full coaching package, your self-help package was the right type of material to get me on the right track that I needed to be on.


Thank you so much for your services, it proved to be crucial!”


——————————————————

What I offer is TIP, TOOLS, TECHNIQUES, AND FEEDBACK. The rest is up to you. I have no way of controlling what you do with the information.

I realize budgets can make a difference regarding what you can afford – or want to invest.

All I can tell you is that I have worked with over 3500 candidates in the past six years with a high rate of passing.

Here are some possible options for you.

A book recommendation – quiz book  – to teach you how to write a good “behavioral story.” 

This book link is included in Premier Package.

You can purchase on Amazon.

Boost Your Interview IQ – Second Edition (white cover – published – 2012) – for a quick brush up on Behavioral Interviewing as well as other questions. It’s a quiz and you determine which is the strongest answer.

The book is available at many bookstores.

On line —- Paperback and Kindle

FROM SOMEONE WHO DID NOT PASS THE FBI EXAM THE FIRST TIME

“Boost Your Interview IQ” by Carole Martin provides you with the essential skills and techniques you need to apply in any real life interviewing scenario. If you are truly interested in exploring the fundamentals and learning the essentials of job interviewing, then this book will be an important guide.

Before I read Carole Martin’s book, I must admit that I was lost when it came to interviews. As a young lawyer with three years of experience in my field, I truly thought that I knew everything it took to effectively express myself and market my skills to a potential employer. I had conducted countless client interviews myself, and so I thought I had most question and answer techniques down to a science. But when I flunked my first major interview for a dream job with a prestigious employer, I realized that I needed help from an expert. In hindsight, I wish I had sought out this information earlier.  Perhaps because I was too accustomed to being sought out by others as an expert in my own field of law that I did not realize I needed an expert’s advice on basic interview techniques. 

I am thankful that I contacted Carole Martin and found her book “Boost Your Interview IQ.”  I feel that I have begun the journey towards interview success. In my opinion, learning real life interview techniques should not be about “gimmicks” or “tricks”.  Instead, Carole Martin provides a wide-range of examples that point you in the right direction.  You will learn through a question and answer technique designed by Carole that will give you a thorough understanding of the basics.  Reading this book is the beginning of a journey that will equip you with the essentials of interviewing.  So if you are curious about how to interview, then I recommend you read this book first.  The rest is up to you!”

Or, you can do the self-help package  –

“Self-Preparation Package” and start the prep now.

I will critique a story for you with this package – important to know if you’re writing the stories in an acceptable manner. I will also chat with you to answer questions.

If, you decide to add on the coaching (we take into account what you have already purchased – and never charge for the same thing twice.) you can do that at any time.

“Basic Package”

$399

“Premier Package”

$599

THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE BASIC PACKAGE AND THE PREMIER PACKAGE IS TIME SPENT BY ME – EITHER IN COACHING (2 ½  HOURS VS 1 HOUR 40 MINUTES)

AS WELL AS THE WRITING FOR YOU OR HELPING YOU WRITE THE 5 POINTS – WHAT YOU HAVE TO OFFER THE BUREAU.

*The five-point system is a summary of what you bring to the position – matched to what you bring to the Bureau.

The system is aligned with your five fingers to keep you focused and succinct.

Basic package – you receive a template and I will help you with what to write.

Premier package – I write the 5 points for you based on our sessions

Here are some questions that could be answered with the same 5 points.

Q. Tell me about yourself.
Q. What can you bring that the other candidates can’t bring to this job?
Q. What are your strengths?
Q. What makes you unique?

Q. Why should we hire you?

Also can be used as a summary at the end of the interview.

“Before I leave I would like to summarize what I would bring to the job.”

Questions/problems – let me know.

Best wishes

Carole

RESUME REFERRALS

www.careerproplus.com

Phase II client referral –

“This is who helped me with my resume. She was awesome. She works for a resume company but I’ve could email her directly and get set up. I highly recommend her.”

A CRUTIAL PART OF THE PHASE II OR III INTERVIEW IS WRITING STORIES.

THE INTERVIEW FOCUSES ON BEHAVIORAL INTERVIEWING TECHNIQUES.

HOW TO ANSWER A BEHAVIORAL QUESTION – WITH A STORY

PROPORTIONS OF A BEHAVIORAL ANSWER

The proportions of the story are almost more important than the story itself.

ALWAYS START WITH THE FACTOR YOU ARE GOING FOR FIRST

FACTOR – Planning, Organizing, Prioritizing

PROBLEM/SITUATION  (20%) 5-7 sentences

Setup –

One of the successful projects I had in college was a presentation Asian and Pacific Islander American-VOTE, a non-governmental organization aimed at addressing and ending Asian American voter apathy.

 My team was assigned to report on key management personnel, divisions and number of employees.

I was selected as the team lead by my teammates.

Transition sentence – feelings, thoughts…

I felt pressured. This was an intense assignment, and I knew I would have to put time and energy into the preparation if my team was to do a good job. 

ACTION (60%) 7 -9 steps — more or less

“WHAT I DID WAS……” (use this phrase to signal to them and to you that the main part of the story is beginning. Once you begin the ACTON you can’t go back to the problem.)  —

I arranged a meeting with my team and facilitated an active discussion on our topic so that everyone felt included.  Once the group of myself and three other students agreed on a plan of action I laid out our groundwork for the project.  

I divided each subject matter into categories, i.e. mission statements, coalition partners, number of employees, etc.

Then I evenly distributed the work amongst the group members in accordance with what I felt were there strengths and weaknesses. There was some push and pull about the division, but in the end we were in agreement.

I also was able to arrange and organize a trip to HQ in Washington D.C. to interview employees and gather visual aids for the presentation.  This took a lot of effort on my part, but was the highlight of the project. Everyone became very motivated when we were able to see what we were working toward.

I then collected and coordinated all of the information.  Each respective member prepared the pieces and articles relevant to our goal.

I put in extra effort, organizing and writing the final presentation.  Many late nights, while still trying to keep up my class load. There were times this was a real challenge to meet all of my deadlines.

Then I spent time reviewing my portion of the speech over a period of several days, keeping in mind that I had a time commitment.

Spending weekends and late evenings was very difficult sometimes, but I persisted and it paid off in the end.

RESULT (20%) —-  3-5 sentences

 As a result, I felt calm and confident while giving the presentation and that helped the others feel the same. I received an “A” for my portion of the project.  

The team’s overall grade was an A+.

I received many comments from my team and my professor telling me what a great job I did.  One team member told me that he had never felt more organized on a project.  

KUDO

(If there was any kind of kudo or comment given – be sure to include that in the end of your story.) Third party endorsement is like a “gold star.”

TEMPLATE
 
The structure above is the “template.” 

Once you write the story, you will turn it into a conversational dialogue. Would you talk this way if you were talking to professional colleagues?  Probably not.

Make it a conversation where you were sharing the story with others. We tend to write more formally than when we speak – especially to colleagues. These people who are interviewing you are equivalent to your colleagues. At least you hope that they will be.

RULE – THE ACTION MUST MATCH THE “FACTOR” –

WHEN YOU BEGIN TO WRITE YOUR STORIES – CHOOSE ONE FACTOR AT A TIME. AS YOU BECOME MORE CONFIDENT, YOU CAN BE MORE CONFIDENT ABOUT MOVING THE STORIES AROUND – AS THOUGH THEY WERE ON WHEELS.

“Your coaching taught me two skills which I believe separated me from others”

Received 4-06-19

I finally received the good news…..it was a pass! 

Your coaching taught me two skills which I believe separated me from others that interviewed. 

1) the ability to concisely and directly explain why I want to be and FBI agent and how to better sell myself. 

2) morphing, morphing, morphing. My entire interview was morphed. Had I not learned this skill I would not have passed. “

www.fbiinterviewcoach.com – learning to “morph” a story is an important part of the program.

From the Coach:

Behavioral stories have a “beginning,” a “middle,” and an “end.”

Not all stories end with a success, but all stories should have an ending – the results.

RESULT

KUDOS OR COMMENTS ARE THE BEST WAY TO END A STORY – THIRD PARTY

ENDORSEMENT.  (IF THERE WAS ONE – IF NOT, OK.)

Third party endorsement is a great way to “brag” about yourself – indirectly. This means saying something through someone else’s words.

 While you are describing yourself or what you can bring to the job, add a quote from someone who said something positive about you. “A gold star.”

First Quarter of 2019

It’s looking like Law Enforcement is alive and well – business is picking up.

I am seeing an increase in women clients – keep coming ladies!

FBI IS BUSY AND SCHEDULING INTERVIEWS

KUDOS AND RESULTS FOR DECEMBER/JANUARY/FEBRUARY INTERVIEWS

Left over from 2018


2ND TIMER

I passed my second try at Phase 2, and I know it was your coaching that made the difference. I walked in my first time over a year ago with confidence that my prior job experience was more than enough and failed. I walked in this time, humble but ready to share more of myself and be genuine, and as you already knew, that made all the difference.

I gave them as much as I could in my first question to include my five points in case I didn’t have an opportunity later; as it turns out that was a very good move. I definitely had to morph almost all my answers. Only one question did I have to pull a story that I had not previously prepared.

Again thank you.

——-

From Puerto Rico

Last Thursday I received notice of passing phase 2. I have to say that I followed everything we talked about in the sessions. I kept it simple with the factors. The day of the interview, I went in feeling very comfortable. The panel was friendly and that really helped.

Absolutely everything we covered that I was expecting. I was able to answer all questions without any problems. I was talking the whole time and they were writing at the same time so that was good. At the end I had to your morphing technique a couple of times.

The interview finished and I walked out feeling great. Two of the guys that were came out of the interview and weren’t feeling the same.

I thank you for your service. It really made the difference in my performance.

——-

2019

Female

I wanted to thank you so much for your help in preparing for the phase 2 examination- your coaching made me feel prepared for the examination and I really believe it is one of the reasons I passed! Thanks so much!

——-

First Timer

Just wanted to follow up with you.  I found out last night (exactly a week after my interview) that I passed! Honestly I was a bit unsure of myself after I left (I was the first one done – it only took 37 minutes).  Honestly that interview was one of the most challenging things I have ever done and I don’t think I would have passed without your help.  I was prepared for the questions and only had to skip one to come back to it at the end.  The agents had their heads down writing most of the time – as soon as they stopped and looked up at me I just picked another Factor from the list to bring into the story and they got right back to taking notes. Thank you so much for helping me!

One thing – With the way they broke down the questions the agents said I should keep stories to 4 to 5 minutes.  I think mine (2-3 min) were done a bit too quickly. 

—–

Female

The interviewers were so professional and nice that I was put to ease pretty quick. I had a story for every question but one ! And weirdly enough I kept forgetting the question ! I would hear the question, determine the competency, tell my story that spoke to that competency, and them scramble to tie it back to the original question!  So I felt like a complete mess but it must have gone better than I felt, I am so thrilled, thank you for your help! 

—–

MALE

So I got my results back from my phase 2 testing and…..I passed! I just wanted to thank you for all your help. I can honestly say that the interview would be next to impossible to pass without proper preparation.

I did get a lot of reactions from them, laughs, smiles etc so I feel like I came across really genuine which may have compensated for my forgetting to tell them about my personal life. “Show don’t tell” was also something I believe really helped me, I actually caught one of them staring at me a few times very interested in what I was saying, when she realized she wasn’t writing she very quickly switched back to being head down haha.

I will keep passing your info along to others I come in contact with that are attempting to get FED LAW jobs. Thank you again!

—–

Female

I passed phase 2.  WOOT WOOT!!  And honestly, it’s all because of you.  My biggest challenge was to relax, just like you predicted.  BUT, I was able to take some deep breathes and remember that the agents are just regular people and it was up to me to prove myself. 

I answered every question without hesitation and did not pass on any questions.  Why – because I was able to instantly figure out the value they were seeking and had a story ready. 

I did use your morphing technique on quite a few questions and because of your coaching, it was smooth and instant.  

I had a “runners high” post interview because I knew I gave it my all.  

I can’t thank you enough for your guidance throughout this process.  It was a life lesson that will help me in the future. 

In my humble opinion, I think you have the right to charge more.  I would pay double for what you did for me. 

I will keep you posted on my final outcome.  Next step, background and then lie detector.  If all goes well, Quantico!  YIPEE!!

Thanks again for everything.  For future applicant’s my advice would be to really focus on team/group experiences in all aspects of their life. 

—–

MALE

  Carole, simply… Thank you

U.S. Department of Justice

Federal Bureau of Investigation

This is what I received today –

Washington, D.C.  20535

Special Agent Phase II

Congratulations, you achieved a passing score on the Special Agent Selection Process (SASP) Phase II.  Under the current SASP, your scores will never expire.  You have clearly differentiated yourself, and the FBI encourages your continued participation in the recruiting process.

—–

FEMALE

I passed!

I just got the email today. It’s been exactly two weeks. I can’t thank you enough for your training. Holy cow were you right about how useful morphing would be, and also having two stories per factor. But MORE importantly – at least with MY interview – the 5 points about myself and “Why you want to be an agent” training was extremely valuable. Having those two things (slightly) memorized gave me a lot o confidence.

 I also took your advice about BEING MYSELF. Two of the agents smiled during some of my stories, and one even chuckled. I got stuck on 1-2 questions, but I morphed the heck out of my stories. Those stories weren’t exactly perfect but they were good enough.

It was not a perfect interview – i did get nervous and I did get stuck for a few seconds here and there – but I would urge everyone sitting for this interview to just show confidence…even if they have to FAKE IT. Your advice to just give them a story when I get stuck could be more true. Just GIVE A STORY. 

Thank you again. Definitely worth the investment. Hands down.

—–

FEMALE

! I want to thank you for your guidance, encouragement, and “tough love” on my writing samples and verbal practice sessions.

I am so excited for this next chapter of my professional life.

With gratitude.

—–

MALE (SENT FROM QUANTICO)

Carole,

This is massively delayed but I wanted to let you know I got the offer and have been at Quantico for the last few weeks. There were some delays (as expected), but I made it. I couldn’t have gotten this far without your help too so thank you again!

12/2018 FBI News Flash!

There is a change in the FBI interviewing process.

You will take the “written test” before you do the interview – through a testing site.

Some tips to help you through this part of the process.

As For The Written Test –

  FEEDBACK FROM OTHERS WHO PASSED –

I agree that the best and only advice for the writing section is to read the directions carefully.

____________________________________________

Learn from another’s mistake

“My written assessment was BAD. It wasn’t difficult, but I got so much into writing my stuff that I just forgot to give what was specifically asked for. I felt good about it when I was done, but then some of the other guys were talking about it and then I realized that I left out the most important thing. All I ended up doing was summarizing the case given to me. I felt very frustrated that I messed up something so simple. The written assessment was by far easier than the interview, but I got so caught on my line of thought I didn’t follow the proper instructions. I’m writing you this email and I am still angry thinking about that. It’s just embarrassing really.”

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­

 “The writing portion was very easy but time consuming. I stuck to the facts and I wrote like my life depended on it. I didn’t waste any time reading everything I skimmed and then went to work. Just stick the facts and proofread as you write the report. I was able to write everything I needed to within an hour and half.”

A funny thing happened on the way to the FBI interview.

If you have your interview scheduled in a hotel –BEWARE – the Agents are staying in the same hotel!

Funny story and a piece of advice to your future candidates when going into Phase 2.  

On the day of my Phase 2, I got dressed and went down to the lobby to get some breakfast before the big day.  

On my way down, I ran into a woman in the elevator that was in a T-shirt, sweatpants, and looked like she just woke up 2 minutes ago.  She obviously was going down to get some breakfast and go right back to sleep.

I greeted her in the elevator and let her leave first when it was time to exit.  As I suspected she was going down to get breakfast as well.  We were both in line and she was indecisive on what you wanted to eat and almost ran into me with her food getting real close to spilling her food on my suit.  She apologized for almost running into me but instead of me getting mad at her or telling her to be more careful, I smiled at her and told her don’t worry about it she is totally fine.  

She thanked me and asked my name.  I told her and said it was great to meet her and we both went our separate ways.

As the seven of us Phase 2 candidates had just got done with our writing portion, we were asked to wait in the lobby while we were assigned our panel rooms in preparation for the interviews.   She asked us to line up and head to our panel rooms.  

I get to my panel room, knocked the door to be let in and sure enough I was greeted by the lady that I ran into in the elevator and at the breakfast line.  This time she was dressed up and I now found out she was the special agent that wanted to interview me.  

She smiled at me, told me I conducted myself this morning just like she would want an FBI agent to be with the public and we went about our interview.  

I would like to think that I passed my Phase 2 interview because of all the preparation I did and not how I acted before the interview but I’m sure it didn’t hurt either.  

Although my behavior wouldn’t have changed the way I normally treat people regardless of this situation or who is watching.

 

My advice to any candidates going into the interview, is to treat everybody kindly, respectfully and professionally from the minute you board your plane to when you get back home because you never know who you will run into throughout the Phase 2 process and how your behavior could affect the opportunity of a lifetime.

DEFENSE BUDGET CHANGES

By Kathryn Troutman, Federal Career Coach®
President, Resume Place, Inc.
September 5, 2018

2019 Defense Budget Promises Big Changes for Workers and Job Seekers

2019 Defense Budget Promises Big Changes
for  Post-Secondary Students, College Graduates, Civilians and Job Seekers

On August 13, President Trump signed into law the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019. The $717 billion spending plan, and the accompanying restructuring proposals for many government agencies and departments, has all kinds of implications for federal employees and job seekers.

Expedited hiring authority for younger workers

Maybe the most radical element of the 2019 NDAA is the Expedited Hiring Authority for College Graduates and Post-Secondary Students, which will empower agency heads to bypass certain hiring preferences (for veterans, members of minority groups, and disabled people) in order to increase hiring of educated young workers. Each qualifying unit of government will be allowed to speed up hiring for any competitive service, professional or administrative position at the GS-11 level or below with as many as 15 percent of the number of hires that the unit made in the previous year.

The hope is that this and other expedited hiring authorities will draw new grads and other young professionals, who are underrepresented in the federal labor force, and who expect much faster resolution of job applications than Uncle Sam usually provides. Appointees under this provision must have a bachelor’s or graduate degree and apply within two years of graduation, or be military service people who apply within two years of discharge.

Direct Hire Authority for recent Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Graduates. (Direct Hire – jobs do not have to be advertised). Applies only to graduates of minority serving institutions and recruiting for veterans. Career Fairs will be highly effective at these colleges.

Engagement with Historically Black Colleges and Universities and minority-serving institutions for the purposes of technical workforce enhancement.  For the purpose of increasing the number of graduates of such institutions to accept positions in Department of Defense Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics-related positions important to the national security functions of the Department.

Expedited Hiring Authority for College Graduates and Post-Secondary Students. This provision would be applied government wide (NOT just DOD agencies) and would provide for appointments at GS-11 and below for students and recent graduates (within 2 years). It provides an extension for military service members. It is not a direct hire authority, because it requires that the positions be advertised. Agencies would have to follow regulations prescribed by OPM, and appointments would be limited to 15 percent of the number of competitive appointments an agency made to similar positions during the previous fiscal year.

The John S. McCain Strategic Defense Fellows Program. This is described as “a civilian fellowship program designed to provide leadership development and the commencement of a career track toward senior leadership in the Department.” Limited to 60 participants per year, the program would require participants to have recent (within 2 years) graduate degrees or to receive a graduate degree within 6 months of entering the program.

SUMMARY: IMPORTANT NDAA POST-GRADUATE HIRING PROGRAMS BECAUSE OF THE LOW NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES UNDER THE AGE OF 30 AT DOD!   Recent Grads – take advantage of this.

Big changes in store for Education, Labor and the Postal Service

The reorganization plan would combine the departments of Education and Labor, to improve the transitions students into workforce programs. This merger is likely to eliminate some positions, but also create new opportunities for professionals with expertise in workforce development. The new agency would be named the Department of Education and the Workforce.

The plan also would restructure the Postal Service to prepare it for a possible transition into a privately held corporation, impacting the more than 500,000 career employees working there as of 2017.

Do note that many of these major organization changes would require congressional approval. Other changes would have to jump regulatory and bureaucratic hurdles.

Be ready – www.interviewcoach.com and www.fbiinterviewcoach.com

If you don’t pass the Phase II Interview

IF YOU DON’T PASS THE PHASE TWO INTERVIEW PROCESS – YOU WILL HAVE TO WAIT A YEAR TO REAPPLY.

 A year can feel like a very long time if you’re waiting for something that you want NOW.

FROM SOMEONE WHO DID NOT PASS THE FIRST TIME –

“Boost Your Interview IQ” by Carole Martin provides you with the essential skills and techniques you need to apply in any real life interviewing scenario. If you are truly interested in exploring the fundamentals and learning the essentials of job interviewing, then this book will be an important guide.

Before I read Carole Martin’s book, I must admit that I was lost when it came to interviews. As a young lawyer with three years of experience in my field, I truly thought that I knew everything it took to effectively express myself and market my skills to a potential employer. I had conducted countless client interviews myself, and so I thought I had most question and answer techniques down to a science. But when I flunked my first major interview for a dream job with a prestigious employer, I realized that I needed help from an expert. In hindsight, I wish I had sought out this information earlier.  Perhaps because I was too accustomed to being sought out by others as an expert in my own field of law that I did not realize I needed an expert’s advice on basic interview techniques. 

I am thankful that I contacted Carole Martin and found her book “Boost Your Interview IQ.”  I feel that I have begun the journey towards interview success. In my opinion, learning real life interview techniques should not be about “gimmicks” or “tricks”.  Instead, Carole Martin provides a wide-range of examples that point you in the right direction.  You will learn through a question and answer technique designed by Carole that will give you a thorough understanding of the basics.  Reading this book is the beginning of a journey that will equip you with the essentials of interviewing.  So if you are curious about how to interview, then I recommend you read this book first.  The rest is up to you!”

Boost Your Interview IQ: 

Boost Your Interview IQ – Second Edition (white cover – published – 2012) – for a quick brush up on Behavioral Interviewing as well as other questions. It’s a quiz and you determine which answer is the strongest answer. This book is not specifically geared toward law enforcement – it is about “behavioral interviewing.”

http://a.co/9pGtGcc  — or http://amzn.to/2vntQDZ

I Passed the FBI, IRS, CI and Dept of Energy OIG interviews!

MULTI-SUCCESSES

I PASSED the FBI, IRS CI, and Dept. of Energy OIG interviews

Thank you so much for your help with the process! Getting the feedback on my interview question answers was invaluable.

The material that you have for the FBI interview is also spot on, and concentrating on the factors helped immensely.

Even though I was nervous going into each of the interviews, it was not for lack of preparation, and once the interviews started I was comfortable and was able to “be myself” due to feeling thoroughly prepared with your help.

Your advice of “talking to the interviewers as if they are my coworkers” really helped set this very useful mindset.

Thanks again for being so flexible and responsive to my tight interview timeframe.

I would not hesitate to recommend you to anyone looking for LE interview preparation, or general interview preparation as well!

—————

IS THIS FOR REAL – OR, DOES SHE KNOW WHAT SHE IS DOING?

(FROM A SECOND-TIMER)

So I gotta admit. After our first interaction, I felt as though I had been suckered. I mean…I had been through the process and you hadn’t.  How could you possibly know any better than I what to expect!! But you stuck with me, despite me thinking I knew what was best, and helped me through my interview.

When I got in the room, I panicked a bit. After the second question…after I got over the fact that I was in an interview and there were three pairs of eyes staring into my soul, I relaxed, listened, thought, and provided a response. Each subsequent question became easier (until I thought I ran out of experiences in which I morphed some of my other answers).

WHEW!!  I PASSED!!!

I can’t thank you again for sticking with me.  You helped to ground me and keep me

I’ve already referred you to a couple colleagues here in my office as well as a few people I met there who didn’t pass this time around. I am sure they will all be in touch.

——

Need help? Contact me: https://fbiinterviewcoach.com/contact.php

Carole

 

WHO BECOMES FBI EMPLOYEES? AGENTS? You’d be surprised.

*Diversified (all other backgrounds or skills not specified above)

*What is meant by Diversified?

Besides needing agent candidates with the specialized skill sets, the FBI also seeks well-rounded applicants with unspecified degrees and diverse
backgrounds who have demonstrated experience in the Special Agent core competencies.Who is disqualified from an FBI interview?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

** From an FBI Agent — “On a personal note, I served with an FBI Agent who was a former elementary school principal and another who was a full-time youth minister.”

**From Carole Martin, The Interview Coach—

“I have coached — a Middle School Band Director, a High School Teacher, and a Lancome Cosmetics Marketing Manager – who all passed Phase II.

My biggest achievement came last year when I coached a “chef” through the process – and he passed.

It’s not easy, but with some hard work, you can make it.”

Taken from the FBI website – www.fbi.gov

Below are specific elements that will automatically disqualify job candidates for employment with the FBI. These include:

•    Non-U.S. citizenship
•    Conviction of a felony (Special Agent candidates only: conviction of a domestic violence misdemeanor or more serious offense)
•    Violation of the FBI Employment Drug Policy (please see below for additional details)
•    Default on a student loan insured by the U.S. Government
•    Failure of an FBI-administered urinalysis drug test
•    Failure to register with the Selective Service System (for males only, exceptions apply – please click here to find out more)
•    Knowingly or willfully engaged in acts or activities designed to overthrow the U.S. government by force
•    Failure to pay court ordered child support
•    Failure to file federal, state, or local income tax returns

Please note that if you are disqualified by any of the above tests, you are not eligible for employment with the FBI. Please make sure you can meet FBI employment requirements and pass all disqualifiers before you apply for an FBI position.

Phase II can be taken a 2nd time – for the FBI Agent position. Here is some feedback from a female who didn’t pass the first time. She worked with me this time around.

“I even had one of the other applicants come up to me about 5 minutes after arrived in the waiting area and say, “You were radiating swagger when you walked in and that can’t be taught.

I thought you were one of the agents!  What is your secret?!”  He and I laughed and of course I replied “Well that’s a good sign.”

SHE PASSED this time around after working with me.

www.fbiinterviewcoach.com

Learning to “morph” your stories will help you get out of a tough spot when you cannot think of a story to match the answer.

I am writing to inform you that I……passed! Thank you again for your coaching. I believed it gave me the extra edge necessary to pass Phase II. In regards to feedback: morphing morphing morphing and BEING YOURSELF was the key to victory here.

I was just goofy and honest, which I think they appreciated. I laid it all out on the table for them, which I believed not only made me more relaxed, but made them a lot more relaxed too.

Great working with you and I hope you continued success.

Big advantage to being coached for Federal jobs

The biggest advantage you helped me with was talking to the agents as if they are co-workers because they are! There was an immediate connection once I told them that I was already on board and I had them laughing a couple times with my stories. It made me feel relaxed and confident about how I did.

Once again, thank you for all of your help!

FEDERAL EMPLOYER

I was not only offered the position, but it is actually my dream job. I will keep my pay, seniority and after six months I will be able to work from home 4 days a week. I was able to pick my work location,

I couldn’t have done it without you. Thank you for all your encouragement and wisdom. Your stories made me realize I could succeed no matter what circumstance I was going through. I am looking forward to our new beginning.

The interviewer did ask me; why I want to work for “the Agency,” and why am I wanted to relocate.
My answers that we had covered – flowed.
There were some situational questions, as well as some questions about my technical expertise and what my strengths were. All the questions we worked on together.

You have a true gift, you understood my situation and gave me the tools I needed in such a short amount of time. I listened to our recordings and knew I had to step up the excitement in my tone and I felt better overall after hearing myself.

I cannot thank you enough and want to continue to prepare myself for future interviews by continuing to work with you.

I can help you too! Visit www.fbiinterviewcoach.com

Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/FbiInterview

Tips on how to interview and feel relaxed.

The biggest advantage you helped me with was talking to the agents as if they are co-workers because they are! There was an immediate connection once I told them that I was already on board and I had them laughing a couple times with my stories. It made me feel relaxed and confident about how I did.

Once again, thank you for all of your help!

 

FEDERAL EMPLOYER

I was not only offered the position, but it is actually my dream job. I will keep my pay, seniority and after six months I will be able to work from home 4 days a week. I was able to pick my work location,

I couldn’t have done it without you. Thank you for all your encouragement and wisdom. Your stories made me realize I could succeed no matter what circumstance I was going through. I am looking forward to our new beginning.

The interviewer did ask me; why I want to work for “the Agency,” and why am I wanted to relocate.

My answers that we had covered – flowed.

There were some situational questions, as well as some questions about my technical expertise and what my strengths were. All the questions we worked on together.

You have a true gift, you understood my situation and gave me the tools I needed in such a short amount of time. I listened to our recordings and knew I had to step up the excitement in my tone and I felt better overall after hearing myself.

I cannot thank you enough and want to continue to prepare myself for future interviews by continuing to work with you.

Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/FbiInterview

Carole Martin, The Interview Coach

Special Agent Success Stories of the Week!

SPECIAL AGENT — FBI PHASE II SUCCESS STORIES RECEIVED THIS WEEK  \o/

I just found out that I passed Phase II! Thank you for your help. I learned such an incredible amount about interviewing through our work together.

I wouldn’t want to know what the outcome would have been if I hadn’t worked with you. Having my stories down and in the SAR format was the key.

I will recommend you to all applicants!

____________________________________________

I am reaching out to let you know that your help was priceless. We worked together briefly and crammed. I was confident until I got to the interview and realized that everyone there was really nervous.

I felt that I was able to incorporate them in my stories and I passed!

Now you can add me to the list of people who will recommend your coaching.

Thank you!

 

Just wanted to let you know that I passed and I am so glad that I decided to go with your interview package.

When I asked the other people interviewing with me what they did to prepare, most said they just reviewed their resume.

When I walked in there I was nervous, but when I walked out I was confident with my responses . I was able to give quick responses on 10 of the questions because of the preparation I did with you.

I think the most important thing going in is to not just focus on work related answers, they want to get to know the real you. They want to know the struggles that have made you into the person you are today and how those struggles have made you resilient.

Thank you

 

­­­­­­­­­­

Add me to your long list of satisfied customers because I passed! I won’t get into the specifics, but literally everything you told me during our sessions was 100% accurate.

If your future clients are serious about passing this test then they need to read through all the resources you provide, carefully craft good stories, and listen to every piece of advice you give. They will be doing themselves a huge disservice by going against your suggestions.

Thank you,

 

I just found out the good news that I passed the interview/written exam!  Thank you so much for your help with my preparation.  I am very glad I chose to hire you to work with me.  Not a doubt in my mind that it helped me immensely.

I felt confident with my stories and had a list of them in my head, so walking into the room I felt more at ease.

I felt really good about it leaving the room overall though because although I stuck to work stories, they were varied and I felt at ease enough that I think they got to know me.

Thank you!!  Thank you!!

­

I passed my phase 2!!! Your time was certainly helpful. My interview was pretty laid back. I had the panel laughing from the get go when I told them about the TERRIBLE dream I had about my interview the night before.

Answering every question is important. I had to spend quite a bit of time on one question, but I had plenty of time leftover at the end to come up with someone.

Anyway, I can’t stress how much I appreciate your help! I am fortunate to say that your work with me is done! Take care and THANK YOU!

 

PASSING THE INTERVIEW AND THE PFT

Within a few hours of receiving the email saying that I passed the interview/essay, I received an email saying the PFT would be offered tomorrow morning (which was today).

I went this morning and passed the PFT!!

All ages are held to the same standard when applicants.  Just wanted to share that with you!  Thanks again for helping me along this journey.

So thankful for your help,

 

Visit www.fbiinterviewcoach.com to see how I can help  you too!

Want to work for the FBI – Check out INTELLIGENCE ANALYST

Intellingence AnalystsIntelligence Analysts at the FBI analyze information, provide judgments and make recommendations to support decision makers to take action to mitigate all threats. Having the right information and guidance is critical to protecting the United States. Intelligence Analysts’ knowledge, recommendations and strategies help identify and combat threats, while their collaborative networks with state, local and federal partners and with members of the

Intelligence Community help mitigate risks before they happen. Intelligence Analysts at the FBI analyze information, provide judgments and make recommendations to support decision makers to take action to mitigate all threats. Having the right information and guidance is critical to protecting the United States. Intelligence Analysts’ knowledge, recommendations and strategies help identify and combat threats, while their collaborative networks with state, local and federal partners and with members of the Intelligence Community help mitigate risks before they happen.

https://www.facebook.com/FBI/videos/10156196165431212/

Not much time to prepare?

SHORT TIME FRAME TO PREPARE 

 “I just wanted to follow up and say thank you so much for your help and services! Today I received notification that I passed Phase 2. Even with the short timeline I had to prepare I felt like I was on top of all of the questions they asked me.” 3/27/18

SECOND TIME AROUND  

“I had my phase 2 interview on Dec 4.  I just wanted you to know that I passed this time!  The way you broke all of the information/interview structure down was very helpful.  I found myself much more confident and prepared this time.  I had a different story prepared for each question asked.  The 60 minute interview felt like it went by much quicker.  The agents interviewing me were a pleasure to talk to.”

From a client who passed – 3/28/18

“Please pass on – RELAX, RELAX, RELAX! Drink the water. It’s not a trick. Take your time, think about your answers, and don’t try to be who you think they want you to be.”

www.fbiinterviewcoach.com

 

Looking for Special Agents

From:

Fbijobs.gov (search jobs) (latest postings)

We’re looking for Special Agents with unique skills, lives, and backgrounds.  The one thing every Special Agent shares is belief in the mission of the FBI.  They have the drive to help keep our nation safe, become part of something bigger than themselves, and take pride in making a difference in the communities they serve.

If you have a Meet & Greet or a Phase II or Phase III interview coming up, let me know and I would be glad talk with you. I would like to hear what your situation is – and whether it is your first or second time.

I have a ton of experience working with all phases of the FBI interview process – for the past 15 years.

Carole Martin – carole@interviewcoach.com

 

FBI INTERVIEWS ARE HAPPENING IN MARCH/APRIL

FROM FEBRUARY/MARCH CLIENTS WHO PASSED

 “I prepared a lot on my own, but the info I received from you, the 5 points, are really why I passed.”

Here are things I did good and some things I didn’t do so good:

  1. Smile, Be yourself, Be imperfect and personable. That is normal, they get your nervous, they’ve been there. It’s ok.
  2. Talk with all of the applicants you can in the beginning, be personable, this will also calm your nerves, get you talking.
  3. Be personable with the Applicant Coordinator, again Smile.. (there were many applicants that weren’t)
  4. Go into the interview with good positive energy, this will extend to your interviewees. Everyone there wants you to succeed. (I heard you say that the energy you bring into the room is extremely important, and that stuck with me)
  5. 5-points!!! Hit them early! (This is what allowed me to pass in my belief and I would have never considered building this well rounded picture for them this way)
  6. Have a well thought out story. I missed many good details at times but they knew I was prepared. I even passed on 2 questions, went blank on 1, but mustered up a different story that was actually unprepared. I even had 2 times where they asked for additional detail and had 1 time when they reminded me of the time constraint. Just show them they you put in the hours to prepare in one way or another, they respect it, even if it’s not delivered perfectly. Again, the energy I brought in, and the 5-points upfront allowed me to be imperfect.

  7. I slightly re-framed their questions at times so that it could fit the story I wanted to tell, still just trying to show them the factor they were looking for which worked well.

 

RECEIVED –  3-8-18

I passed my interview and it’s all because of you! Thank you very much! You’re strategies and tough critiques allowed me to do very well on the interview.

Your style and your approach allowed me to excel in the interview. I couldn’t have done this without you and thank you again! Best money I have ever spent.

 Contact me for help with your FBI interview! www.fbiinterviewcoach.com

Interview Tips – (straight from the FBI website)

  • Be yourself
  • The evaluators will be taking notes during the interview to assist them in documenting the results. Do not let this distract you.
  • Provide detailed information when answering the interview questions. Do not be modest in your responses. To provide the best examples of your skills and abilities, draw from all of your life’s experiences (not just the most recent ones).
  • Remember that the interview panel knows no information about you beyond your name.
  • Keep your answers concise and specific—answers that are too lengthy will detract from your ability to complete the interview within the required timeframe.
  • Do not make assumptions about what the evaluators are seeking. The interview instructions are straightforward. There are no “trick” questions.
  • Study your resume and be able to speak about how your experiences match with the Special Agent Core Competencies.

ONE OF SEVERAL QUOTES FROM CLIENTS TELLING ME HOW IMPORTANT IT IS

TO BE YOURSELF

The best piece of advice you gave me for our work together was to be myself for the interview.  “These people need to know they can be in a car with you for 8 hours,” was your exact quote.

In my eyes an interview will never go perfect so I went in with a nothing to lose attitude since at the end of the day I still had a job.  Being a likable person during the interview makes the interviewer work extra hard for you because they can see you as their partner.  They might take the extra minute to think about how they can check a box off for you to succeed instead of just overlooking that you might have missed a topic.

Making people smile and laugh always goes a long ways.  I brought myself to the interview, with confidence, and held a conversation with my work partners is all.

 

FBI INTERVIEWS ARE TAKING PLACE AT THE END OF THE MONTH

SHORT NOTICE – One/Two Weeks To Prepare for your FBI interview

I received emails asking it there is enough time to prepare. I have worked with people who have been VERY short on time – as little as a few days to prepare, but we managed to pull it off. It’s not ideal, but just knowing the basics is better than going in cold.

Thanks for the help. Due to time restrictions and late notification of my phase II nomination, I only had about a week to prepare. With your help, I was able to prep myself in about a week. I have no doubt that without your assistance and tough criticism, I would not have passed. I’m very glad I was able to find you!

THE IDEAL SITUATION –

 FOR YOUR FEDERAL LAW ENFORCEMENT INTERVIEW

Ideally, and believe me most are not ideal.

– you would begin to work with me after you have your date assigned. You would contact me 4-6 weeks – depending on your life’s schedule to get the materials to begin your preparation.

– ideally,  you would take a week or two to get prepared and then contact me for our first session. You would send me your stories to critique.

– ideally, in our first session we would go over the “Why this Agency?” and “What makes you qualified – what you bring to the position?” questions. We would go over story-telling techniques and tips.

– ideally, after the first session I would send you the 5 points that I have summarized and written, (depending on which package you purchase) or you will write your own 5 points.

Your 5 points will be your roadmap to answer the big questions –  “Why this Agency?” – and “Why do you think you’re qualified?”

– ideally, you would take a week or more to prepare using the tips and techniques you have learned from our first session. All of our sessions are recorded and you will be sent a link to the recording to listen to – at least that’s what I recommend.

– ideally session #2 would be one to two weeks or so prior to your actual interview.

NOW, all that to say that the greater majority of my clients have NOT had “ideal situations.”

I have coached with as little as three or four days and still have helped people pass. This is not my preferred manner, but sometimes that’s what life deals.

I will support you through email – critiquing anything you send me after our sessions.

I only give straight-forward feedback. Clients send me their written stories and I critique them.

I will tell you if you are ready after our two sessions – most of the time you will be ready. My goal is to get you to pass the interview and I will do everything that I can to do just that. The rest will be up to you.

Any other questions or problems let me know.
Best wishes
Carole

From WOMEN who have just passed Phase II. (I have one woman client for every 25 men )

THANK YOU so much for your time, insights, and patience working with me and through my stories. I am very glad to have followed my instincts and preparing for this test with you. You brought a lot of value to this experience and to my successful outcome. You also instilled much needed confidence in me through giving me your objective evaluation of my personality, the pros and cons of my background and professional skills. It helped me to adjust and show the side of me that the agency was looking for.

*********************************

 

Hi Carole!

I just wanted to let you know that I passed Phase 2. Thank you for your help and for making sure I focused on them getting to know the real me.

I passed my fitness test yesterday and will start the background process shortly.

Thanks again 🙂

********************************

 

Carole

I wanted to send you a message. I’m not sure if you remember me, you helped me prepare for my 2016 panel interview for the Intelligence Analyst position with the FBI.

I just wanted to let you know that I just graduated from Quantico, and am currently at my new field office. I just wanted to say THANK YOU so much again!!

I truly don’t think I would have passed without you. I’m hoping to go for Special Agent in a few years, and I would love to work with you again if the time comes!

*********************************

Phase 3

Carole,

I’m very happy to report that I have passed Phase 3! Thank you so much for all of your help!

**********************************

 

Carole

Good evening Carole, I just wanted to share the great news I received today. I passed my Phase II interview and written exam! I wanted to tell you how grateful I am for your help throughout the process. From telling my stories out loud during our phone conferences, showing me how to morph my stories and think of them on wheels, to reminding me over and over again to be myself–I entered and exited that interview with confidence. Your guidance was invaluable and I would encourage anyone preparing for Phase II to use your services.

Thank you again!!

 

Hi Carole
I arrived in D.C. 10 minutes ago and I report to New Agent Training on Sunday. I’m glad that my referral found you – I was happy to send another female your way 🙂

Thank you again for the much needed support and confidence you instilled in me!

 

 

 

FED JOB SHUTDOWN SUMMARY

THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT IS THE LARGEST EMPLOYER IN THE US

There are 2.1 million employees total and the government hired a total of 174,311 in 2017, even with the Hiring Freeze for almost three months!

FED JOB SHUTDOWN SUMMARY:  I just recommend that you be patient, continue all your positive thinking about your career goals with the US Government, and wait and see what’s next.

(WWW.RESUME-PLACE.COM)

1-22-18

I’ve heard that an applicant might only have a two week window from the time they are invited to Phase 2 to their actual Phase 2 test. Do you think two weeks is enough time to complete your training course and be adequately prepared for Phase 2? That’s my main concern.

From past experience with my clients – once it starts up, it will move fast. It is in your best interest to continue to prepare – at least the basics so that you are not caught off-guard.

FROM SOMEONE WHO DID NOT PASS THE FIRST TIME –

“Boost Your Interview IQ” by Carole Martin provides you with the essential skills and techniques you need to apply in any real life interviewing scenario. If you are truly interested in exploring the fundamentals and learning the essentials of job interviewing, then this book will be an important guide.

Before I read Carole Martin’s book, I must admit that I was lost when it came to interviews. As a young lawyer with three years of experience in my field, I truly thought that I knew everything it took to effectively express myself and market my skills to a potential employer. I had conducted countless client interviews myself, and so I thought I had most question and answer techniques down to a science. But when I flunked my first major interview for a dream job with a prestigious employer, I realized that I needed help from an expert. In hindsight, I wish I had sought out this information earlier.  Perhaps because I was too accustomed to being sought out by others as an expert in my own field of law that I did not realize I needed an expert’s advice on basic interview techniques. 

I am thankful that I contacted Carole Martin and found her book “Boost Your Interview IQ.”  I feel that I have begun the journey towards interview success. In my opinion, learning real life interview techniques should not be about “gimmicks” or “tricks”.  Instead, Carole Martin provides a wide-range of examples that point you in the right direction.  You will learn through a question and answer technique designed by Carole that will give you a thorough understanding of the basics.  Reading this book is the beginning of a journey that will equip you with the essentials of interviewing.  So if you are curious about how to interview, then I recommend you read this book first.  The rest is up to you!”

Self-Preparation Package –  

https://fbiinterviewcoach.com/fbi-package-3.php

FBI, PHASE II – PHASE III

ALL – 1811 FED LAW AGENCIES PREPARATION

 

Q. How much time will I need? I’m, not sure how if I have enough time.

The answer, more often you will have two to three weeks notice for your FBI interview – sometimes more – sometimes less.

Ideally – and believe me most are not ideal

– you would begin to work with me after you have your date assigned. You would contact me 4 or so weeks – depending on your life’s schedule –  to get the materials to begin your preparation.

The greater majority of my clients have not been “ideal.” I have coached with as little as three or four days and still have helped people pass. This is not my preferred manner – but sometimes that’s what life deals.

I will support you through email – critiquing anything you want me to look at after our sessions. Some candidates like to send their written stories and have me comment on them. That is part of the deal and I am glad to do that.

My goal is to get you to pass the interview and I will do everything that I can to do just that. The rest will be up to you.  Get more information about how I coach, the successes of my clients and what to expect at FBIInterviewCoach.com
INTELLIGENCE ANALYST – PHASE III

You helped me prepare for my 2016 panel interview for the Intelligence Analyst position with the FBI. I just wanted to let you know that I just graduated from Quantico, and am currently at my new field office. I just wanted to say THANK YOU so much again!!

I truly don’t think I would have passed without you.

FROM A CLIENT WHO JUST PASSED PHASE II

I really appreciate all the effort you put into helping me prepare. I would use your service again and recommend you to others without a second thought.

Here’s a few of the highlights and a bit of advice for your own knowledge and for your future clients.

-Helping me convert my stories from technical, overly detailed logic/jargon into smooth stories (really just conversations) that highlighted the core competencies. Once I got one or two of them down, my preparation got much, much easier.

A bit of advice to any future clients would be to practice the stories out loud. Sometimes when writing the stories down I felt like I was getting a point across but when I spoke it out loud, I realized I wasn’t. This helped me a ton.

Overall, I’d say that my experience appears to fall in line with the majority of your clients that I’ve seen feedback from. The FBI Agents were very professional, and because I felt very prepared I wasn’t nervous, simply told my stories, morphed a few, and went with some off the top of my head.

Thank you again, DSS/BEX

 

I just wanted to write to let you know that I received an offer for the Diplomatic Security Special Agent Position after passing the oral examination this week. I am certain that the preparation and practice sessions from your program were instrumental in my success.

The advice given by former candidates is still accurate overall, even if the format changes every so often. Having plenty of stories available and being comfortable with walking the panel through your thought process during hypothetical scenarios is very important.

Many thanks for your guidance and coaching and I wish you continued success in your program. I’ll be sure to recommend your coaching services to others who seek to career paths in Federal law enforcement.

 

Carole,

Thanks to your program and confidence in me I passed the Phase II portion SASP.  I have to admit after I heard about you from one of my former colleague, who is now an FBI special agent, I knew that I would enlist your services when the time came.  From our first conversation, you built my trust in you, which lead me to go for the full package. After our first session and listening to that painful recording, it was apparent that my money was spent well. I learned so mush about behavior interviewing techniques, the SAR response structure, and the importance of adding the human element when interviewing.

STATE POLICE INTERVIEW

State Patrol Oral Board consisted of 7 Behavioral Questions.*

I studied up on all my stories, studied up on my Factor stories and my five points, and…..I NAILED it.

I walked out of that oral board on cloud 9 because I answered concisely, confidently, and I didn’t get rattled. I easily catered my stories to fit their questions and I actually enjoyed it, believe it or not. I got the job!

1,700 applied, and 28 were invited to the Academy.

I can’t thank you enough for preparing me so well for this! I will be recommending you strongly to my good friends.

* The difference between a behavioral question and other questions is what the question asks. A behavioral question will be very specific.  Example – “Tell me about a time when you solved a problem,” the key words are “a time.” This answer calls for a “specific” example of a “specific” incident. A story.

Book Recommendation – Behavioral Questions – and Answers – easy read – quiz.

Boost Your Interview IQ: 

Boost Your Interview IQ – Second Edition (white cover – published – 2012) – for a quick brush up on Behavioral Interviewing as well as other questions. It’s a quiz and you determine which answer is the strongest answer. This book is not specifically geared toward law enforcement – it is about “behavioral interviewing.”

http://a.co/9pGtGcc  — or http://amzn.to/2vntQDZ

 

FROM SOMEONE WHO DID NOT PASS THE FIRST TIME –

“Boost Your Interview IQ” by Carole Martin provides you with the essential skills and techniques you need to apply in any real life interviewing scenario. If you are truly interested in exploring the fundamentals and learning the essentials of job interviewing, then this book will be an important guide.

Before I read Carole Martin’s book, I must admit that I was lost when it came to interviews. As a young lawyer with three years of experience in my field, I truly thought that I knew everything it took to effectively express myself and market my skills to a potential employer. I had conducted countless client interviews myself, and so I thought I had most question and answer techniques down to a science. But when I flunked my first major interview for a dream job with a prestigious employer, I realized that I needed help from an expert. In hindsight, I wish I had sought out this information earlier.  Perhaps because I was too accustomed to being sought out by others as an expert in my own field of law that I did not realize I needed an expert’s advice on basic interview techniques. 

I am thankful that I contacted Carole Martin and found her book “Boost Your Interview IQ.”  I feel that I have begun the journey towards interview success. In my opinion, learning real life interview techniques should not be about “gimmicks” or “tricks”.  Instead, Carole Martin provides a wide-range of examples that point you in the right direction.  You will learn through a question and answer technique designed by Carole that will give you a thorough understanding of the basics.  Reading this book is the beginning of a journey that will equip you with the essentials of interviewing.  So if you are curious about how to interview, then I recommend you read this book first.  The rest is up to you!”

Successful FBI Phase II client – Practice stories out loud

FROM A CLIENT WHO JUST PASSED FBI PHASE II

I really appreciate all the effort you put into helping me prepare. I would use your service again and recommend you to others without a second thought.

Here’s a few of the highlights and a bit of advice for your own knowledge and for your future clients.

-The way you summarized my “why FBI” from our first session. This really helped me get a handle on how I wanted to present a combination of my personal feelings and skills, as well as the overall process I took to get myself in the interview room.

-Helping me convert my stories from technical, overly detailed logic/jargon into smooth stories (really just conversations) that highlighted the core competencies. Once I got one or two of them down, my preparation got much, much easier.

-One thing that I felt myself doing during the interview was trying to create images throughout my stories…a trick I took from you after you explained the importance of being able to “see” things. I got great feedback from this.

A bit of advice to any future clients would be to practice the stories out loud. Sometimes when writing the stories down I felt like I was getting a point across but when I spoke it out loud, I realized I wasn’t. This helped me a ton.

Overall, I’d say that my experience appears to fall in line with the majority of your clients that I’ve seen feedback from. The FBI Agents were very professional, and because I felt very prepared I wasn’t nervous, simply told my stories, morphed a few, and went with some off the top of my head.

Thank you again,

 

ADVICE FROM CLIENTS WHO PASSED –

Panel Interview “If I had it to do over again, I would just come up with 2 good stories for each of the “elements being measured.

While I have no way to judge, I agree with you that its important to weave in some stories that reveal your non-work self. I was able to do that once or twice and one story elicited a brief smile from one of the guys and was the sum total of the reaction I got from them. I think they are trained to keep a poker-face.”


Hi Carole,

I want to inform you that I passed my Secret Service panel interview.

The panel was very interested in my stories. I had some amazing stories lined up and they stopped writing to listen. I made sure that my result was a positive one. They congratulated me with my accomplishments from my stories. I had 5-6 stories about teamwork, difficult situation, time management, problem solving, communication and most importantly why I want to be a Secret Service Special Agent.

My background as a federal law enforcement officer and my IT background surely helped but they want agents that could bring their skills to the table.

Thank you

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­


From Carole Martin – fbiinterviewcoach.com

I found this book very informative to the FBI Special Agent hiring process

FBI SPECIAL AGENT HIRING GUIDE 2017

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N4OI7A0/ref=pe_1249960_260675170_em_1p_0_ti

My program focuses on passing the Phase II and Phase III interview processes.

https://fbiinterviewcoach.com/

Ideal Situation for Your Federal Law Enforcement Interview

Ideally, and believe me most are not ideal.

– you would begin to work with me after you have your date assigned. You would contact me 4-6 weeks – depending on your life’s schedule to get the materials to begin your preparation.

– ideally, you would take a week or two to get prepared and then contact me for our first session. You would send me your stories to critique.

– ideally, in our first session we would go over the “Why this Agency?” and “What makes you qualified – what you bring to the position?” questions. We would go over story-telling techniques and tips.

– ideally, after the first session I would send you the 5 points that I have summarized and written, (depending on which package you purchase) or you will write your own 5 points. Your 5 points will be your roadmap to answer the big questions – “Why this Agency?” – and “Why do you think you’re qualified?”

– ideally, you would take a week or more to prepare using the tips and techniques you have learned from our first session.

– ideally session #2 would be one to two weeks or so prior to your actual interview.

Now, all that to say that the greater majority of my clients have not had “ideal situations.”

I have coached with as little as three or four days and still have helped people pass. This is not my preferred manner – but sometimes that’s what life deals.

I will support you through email – critiquing anything you send me after our sessions. Clients send me their written stories and I critique them.

I will tell you if you are ready after our two sessions – most of the time you will be ready. I only give straight-forward feedback.

My goal is to get you to pass the interview and I will do everything that I can to do just that. The rest will be up to you. The best way to prepare answers to Behavioral Questions is to have prepared stories.

• Think about how you interact with others in the workplace, in school, or in other work-like activities. Think about the way you worked with others on group projects or on teams, and how you worked with supervisors or professors.

• Think about how you have typically handled assignments, your approach to completing them and how you handled problems or obstacles.

• Think about the way you typically communicate with co-workers, professors, supervisors, fellow students, or fellow volunteers. Think about the way you tried to explain things to others or how you persuaded them to do something.

(source – FBI Website)

FBI Phase III

*Intelligence Analyst Phase III: Structured Interview

Phase III is a one-hour structured interview that assess oral communication, interpersonal skills, organizing and planning, and analytical thinking. Each panel will consist of three senior-level Intelligence Analysts and all interviews will be recorded. Each panel will read a standardized script to the applicant before the interview begins and score each interview when completed.

Intelligence Analyst Critical Skills and Abilities:

– Analytical Thinking

– Interpersonal Skills

– Initiative and Motivation

– Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing

– Adapting to Changing Situation

– Communicating

– Writing Effectively

*From the FBI website

******
Hi Carole –

I wanted to let you know that I just received word that I passed phase III. Thank you for all of your help. I felt prepared and was myself — even though I was extremely nervous!

Thanks for all of your help!!!

 

From a client who recently passed Phase II

Carole,

Just found out today that I passed Phase II. I’m sitting here at my desk reading and re-reading the email informing me that I passed. I didn’t know what to expect when I hired you to help me pass Phase II, but I was so impressed with you and your program that I want to recommend it to anyone that wants to pass Phase II. Your critiques were sometimes harsh but always
insightful and you genuinely wanted me to do my best and pass Phase II. Your direct feedback and guidance really made the difference in my performance during Phase II. I only had one shot at passing, as I am much older than most applicants, and using your principals directly led to my final scores.
I want to give you a heartfelt and sincere THANK YOU, for all of your help and I will get the word out to as many people as possible about your course.

From one of my “female” clients on FBI interviewing

“One thing I would emphasize – especially to your male clients – is to smile, even when they’re not in the interview. We were all taken into a room with the applicant coordinator and I was the only one smiling and nodding at her. All the other male applicants were trying to “look like FBI agents,” but just looked kind of stiff. The applicant coordinator even pointed one out, said he looked like a “deer in the headlights,” and told him to loosen up – the guy looked even more uncomfortable after that, and I’m sure it didn’t help his confidence in the interview.”

How to pass the FBI Phase II interview

The Phase II FBI interview for the FBI Agent position is one of the most challenging interviews ever.

For starters – it’s a blind interview. That means that the three interviewers who will interview you will only know your first name (official name). Oh, they will have four numbers from your Social Security number as an ID.

Besides being very nervous to sit in front of three FBI Agents (the interviewers) the candidates also have to keep in mind that these three individuals know nothing about them. Where they’re from or what they’ve been doing with their lives.

It’s primarily a “behavioral-based” question interview. These are those questions where you have to supply an example – a story. Preparing your stories ahead of time will make you ready to answer those questions, but will also make you feel more confident in front of these Agents.

Here’s a book recommendation on learning about the “behavioral story.”

Boost Your Interview IQ – Second Edition (white cover – published – 2012) – for a quick brush up on Behavioral Interviewing as well as other questions. It’s a quiz and you determine which is the strongest answer.

The book is available at many bookstores.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/0071797467/?tag==interviewcom-20

FROM SOMEONE WHO DID NOT PASS THE FBI EXAM THE FIRST TIME

“Before I read Carole Martin’s book, I must admit that I was lost when it came to interviews. As a young lawyer with three years of experience in my field, I truly thought that I knew everything it took to effectively express myself and market my skills to a potential employer. I had conducted countless client interviews myself, and so I thought I had most question and answer techniques down to a science. But when I flunked my first major interview for a dream job with a prestigious employer, I realized that I needed help from an expert. In hindsight, I wish I had sought out this information earlier.  Perhaps because I was too accustomed to being sought out by others as an expert in my own field of law that I did not realize I needed an expert’s advice on basic interview techniques.”