If you’ve ever been in a silent government office while strangers hook sensors to your fingers and interrogate you to see if you’re lying, then congratulations! You’re well acquainted with the polygraph. Contrary to what you may think, polygraphs don’t just appear in true crime documentaries. They’re often a part of obtaining and maintaining certain levels of security clearance. Not everyone who works in a cleared environment will need one, but those in some positions or under certain intelligence levels will. Polygraphs can be the most intimidating part of the clearance process, but knowing what to expect can ease your nerves and separate reality from the horror stories you’ve heard.
What Does a Polygraph Actually Measure?
Unlike what you’ve probably heard, polygraphs don’t have a magical ability to read your mind and discern truth from lie. What they can do is detect physiological responses that may be associated with stress. Polygraphs aren’t a perfect science, but measuring these responses to a set of questions can be a useful piece of the puzzle in determining whether someone is fit to hold a security clearance.
What is the Pre-Test?
Before the polygraph, you’ll have a lengthy conversation with the examiner, who will prepare you for each question and verify some information from your background. This discussion can last hours and is partially intended to help you feel relaxed before the test.
What Happens During and After the Polygraph?
While hooked up to the sensors, you’ll be asked a series of questions – some general and repetitive, others more specific to handling classified information. Don’t stress about the silence between questions – it’s all part of the process. After the test, the examiner will review any inconsistent readings with you to clarify results. You won’t always know immediately if you passed, so expect to be told that your results are being submitted for review.
If a polygraph is on your horizon, rest assured that nervousness doesn’t automatically mean failure. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare can remove much of the guesswork.
