Master the Polygraph for Law Enforcement Officers.
Learn how to NOT FAIL the Polygraph.
WHAT IS A POLICE POLYGRAPH EXAM?
Most Law Enforcement Agencies will conduct a polygraph examination as part of their background check. The background check will include validating your educational and work experience, police record check, credit score and personal references.
A polygraph is a diagnostic instrument that records physiological changes in a person caused by stress, like answering questions that make or break your dream of becoming a police officer. It relies upon measuring the body’s involuntary responses which occur when the subject is consciously being deceptive or untruthful.
A very good way to deal with the anxiety of taking the polygraph test is to know what to expect. This article covers the basics. Much more is presented in a full-length, on-line training course described below.
Example Polygraph Questions for Police Exam
Preparation for the polygraph begins when you fill out your application. This critical point is covered in detail under Hiring Process on this site.
It is my suggestion that you deal with the above questions in a truthful and forthright manner on your application. Even though there are flaws in the polygraph process, giving honest answers to the questions is the best way to pass. This is not to say that in certain cases, despite giving truthful answers you are guaranteed to pass. You’re not. It’s not a perfect system. But if you are prepared for the exam by knowing what to expect and you are truthful, you can avoid triggering a “false failure.”
Knowing what to expect and having confidence in your answers will help you eliminate the physiological changes which occur when being nervous. These physiological changes will lead to false positive readings and failure.
How do you prepare for the polygraph examination? Simply put, you need to relax and place your mind and body at ease. You need to be as “normal” as possible when taking the examination. Sgt. Godoy’s Mastering the Polygraph will teach you how to achieve these results.
How to Prepare for the Police Polygraph
You will be asked about the following topics during a typical polygraph examination for entry level law enforcement positions.
- Shoplifting or theft of money or merchandise from employer.
- Illegal drug trafficking or dealing.
- Illegal drug or medication use, including steroids.
- Use of alcohol.
- Falsification or minimization in your requested information.
- Participation in any type of organized crime.
- Arrests for anything other than minor traffic violations.
- Commission of a crime which has not been detected.
- Concealment of anything in your background that would affect your chances for this position.
- Involvement in a physical fight with another person, including domestic violence.
- Use of excessive physical force against another person.
- Payment or receipt of any bribes.
Keep in mind, admitting to any of the above questions may disqualify you from consideration for the job. Exceptions would be minor offenses like shoplifted while a juvenile. Drug use also has certain time limits, such as, “if you haven’t smoked marijuana in the last three years.” Each police agency has their own policies, so check their minimum qualifications.
Most Important During the Polygraph
Preparation for the polygraph begins when you fill out your application. This critical point is covered in detail under Hiring Process on this site.
It is my suggestion that you deal with the above questions in a truthful and forthright manner on your application. Even though there are flaws in the polygraph process, giving honest answers to the questions is the best way to pass. This is not to say that in certain cases, despite giving truthful answers you are guaranteed to pass. You’re not. It’s not a perfect system. But if you are prepared for the exam by knowing what to expect and you are truthful, you can avoid triggering a “false failure.”
Knowing what to expect and having confidence in your answers will help you eliminate the physiological changes which occur when being nervous. These physiological changes will lead to false positive readings and failure.
How do you prepare for the polygraph examination? Simply put, you need to relax and place your mind and body at ease. You need to be as “normal” as possible when taking the examination. Sgt. Godoy’s Mastering the Polygraph will teach you how to achieve these results.
Reduce Your Risk of Failing the Polygraph
Make A Good First Impression
Your polygrapher’s subjective opinion of you may influence the outcome of your polygraph interrogation. Look your best. Make sure you’re clean shaven and have a conservative haircut. Dress professionally, polish your shoes. If you’re a woman, dress conservatively.
Be friendly. Smile, but don’t overdo it. Keep good eye contact with your polygrapher, but don’t stare. Your polygrapher may interpret avoidance of eye contact as a sign of deception. Answer questions directly with confidence and without hesitation – but be natural.
Don’t Be Late
If you’re laten you’ll instantly make a bad impression. Your polygrapher may think being late is a subconscious attempt to avoid the polygraph – increasing his suspicion of you even before he asks his first question.
You’ll Be Judged on Your Appearance and Demeanor
The moment you arrive for your polygraph, your polygrapher will be observing you. He will size you up based not only on what you say, but also on your appearance and demeanor. The interrogation room itself may be equipped with a two-way mirror or a concealed video camera. It may not be easy but try to avoid looking nervous. You might consider bringing something to read or otherwise keep yourself productively occupied while waiting.
The Pre-Test Interview
Be polite and cordial. Answer your polygrapher’s questions directly, but remember to make no admissions during this time that are not already in your application.
Keep your Answers Short
Answer any yes/no question with a simple “yes” or “no.” Avoid replies such as, “yes, basically” or “not really.” Such evasive answers will make you appear deceptive to your polygrapher. Don’t be chatty or over friendly with your polygrapher. If you are overly talkative your polygrapher may interpret this as a sign of deception.
Great Resource for Preparing for the Polygraph Exam
“Good Preparation will help you Avoid Falsely Failing the Police Polygraph Exam
— A Wise Man
Minimize your chance of “falsely failing” your polygraph by studying Sgt. Godoy’s Mastering the Polygraph course. This popular course is also included with Sgt. Godoy’s widely acclaimed PoliceExam911 Prep Course.
Included in Mastering the Polygraph is an actual practice session that simulates the examination that you will have to endure. Not only will you be able to pass the polygraph, but you will be one step closer to your dream of becoming a police officer.
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Passing the Polygraph Exam
Passing the polygraph for your first law enforcement position is very stressful. Since the polygraph machine measures stress as an indication of lying, this stress can cause honest people to FAIL the exam.
This course will teach you how to minimize your chance of “falsely failing” your polygraph for entrance into law enforcement. Included in this course is an actual practice session that simulates the examination and questions that you will have to endure. Not only will you be able to pass the polygraph, but you will be one step closer to your dream of becoming a law enforcement officer.
The benefits of my course are that it focuses on keeping the process very simple for you to follow. You don’t have to pinch yourself or take tranquilizers, all you have to do is (A) understand the process and (B) practice some simple relaxation techniques with your answers.
This on-line course includes a multi-media, mobile-friendly, in-depth tutorial with a simulated polygraph session and my personal one-on-one support. Your preparation experience will be faster and more enjoyable using our latest eLearning technology. Since 2007, I have helped thousands of applicants successfully get the job of their dreams. I guarantee your complete satisfaction.
NOTE: This tutorial is already included with many of my full-length prep courses.
As with all of Sgt. Godoy’s courses, all of the following apply:
- Online course is mobile friendly
- Unlimited use for a simple, one-time fee
- Sgt. Godoy’s personal, one-on-one support
- Your satisfaction is guaranteed.
Get 20% off!