Don’t Skip Psych Interview Prep (Part 2)

Don't Skip Psych Interview Prep (Part 2)

At Cognitive Results, we’ve worked with candidates preparing for OACP, CBSA, RCMP, and SIGMA testing since 2005. While many put significant effort into written exams or physical testing, there’s one critical step that often gets overlooked—the psychological interview. We advocate that you thoroughly preparation for this - we advocate that you don't skip psych interview prep! Do not leave it to chance or "just be yourself" - you will fail. In fact, we recently heard from a client who did just that, despite him being a client - he just decided to see how it went. He failed.

Skipping proper preparation for the psych interview is one of the biggest mistakes candidates make, and unfortunately, it can cost them the job.

What Is the Psych Interview, Really?

We have in-depth blog posts on the Psych Interview, as well as more information on the Program Page, but to recap, the psych interview isn’t just a casual conversation—it’s a structured, professional assessment. A licensed psychologist is evaluating whether you’re emotionally stable, mature, consistent, and well-suited for law enforcement work.

Your resume, test scores, and appearance might be excellent—but if your answers in the psych interview raise red flags, you may be declined. Consistency will be checked throughout the process, and preparing for your MMPI or PF16 is all part of our Interview Program as well.

Why Candidates Skip Prep (And Why That’s a Problem)

We’ve seen many clients purchase our full interview program, which includes psych prep—but never touch that section. Some assume, “I know myself. I’ll be fine.” Others feel too pressed for time.

Unfortunately, this kind of thinking leads to real consequences:

• Rambling, inconsistent answers that make you seem disorganized
• Overexplaining or coming across as defensive
• Surprise disqualifications, with no clear feedback from the psychologist
• General tone issues
• Past issues

What the Psych Interview Is Really Assessing

• Emotional Regulation – Can you stay calm under pressure?
• Self-Awareness – Do you understand your strengths and limitations?
• Judgment – Are you making thoughtful, balanced decisions?
• Consistency – Do your answers line up with your background, tests, and application?

It’s not about giving the “right” answer—it’s about showing that you are mentally and emotionally prepared for the demands of the role.

Real Talk: You Can Fail This Stage

Even strong candidates with excellent test results and glowing resumes have been disqualified at this point—simply because they didn’t prepare.

The psych interview can be the most subjective and misunderstood part of the process. But it’s also one of the most important. And skipping prep isn’t worth the risk.

How Cognitive Results Helps You Prepare

We’ve coached thousands of applicants since 2005, and we know how to help you prepare in a way that feels calm, structured, and authentic.

Here’s how we support you:

• In-depth psych interview preparation as part of our Interview Program
• Practice questions and strategies to help you stay grounded
• Tips on managing anxiety and answering confidently
• Guidance on tone, boundaries, and focus

You’ll go into your interview knowing what to expect—and how to present your best self.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Use our Interview Program to start preparing for all stages of your process—including the psych interview.

Don’t let this critical step be the reason you don’t move forward.

You’ve worked hard to get this far. Don’t let the one step you thought was “easy” be the one that stops you.

Psych interview preparation matters. Start early, prepare well, and go in with clarity and confidence.