If you're applying for a government job that requires a security clearance, chances are good that you'll need to take a lie detector test. If that's the case, you'll need to make sure that you're prepared for your appointment. Lie detector tests can generate a lot of stress, especially if you're not sure what to expect. Unfortunately, the stress can cause you to make mistakes that can affect the outcome of your lie detector test. If you want to ensure a passing score on your lie detector test, here are tips that will help you through the process.
Don't Change Your Medications
If you take medication on a regular basis and you're scheduled for a lie detector test, don't make any changes. You might not realize this, but making changes to your medication could interfere with your lie detector test. When you make changes to your medication, you may experience drowsiness, nausea, or other side effects while your body adjusts to the changes. Not only that, but if you start taking a new medication, you may not know how your body will react. To avoid problems with your lie detector test, continue taking your medications as prescribed, and wait until after your exam to start taking new medications.
Don't Try to Cheat the Machine
If you need to take a lie detector test and you're worried about the appointment, you might be tempted to try and cheat the machine. There are plenty of books and websites that will try to teach you methods to cheat the polygraph machine. But, those methods can actually get you into trouble, especially if you're caught in the process of cheating. The best thing you can do is answer the questions honestly and avoid cheating.
Don't Forego a Good Night's Rest
If you're scheduled for a lie detector test, make sure you get a good night's rest. You don't want to be tired or fatigued during your polygraph test. During the lie detector test, the test administrator will ask you a series of questions. If you're too tired, you might not be able to comprehend the questions that are being asked, which could interfere with the outcome of the test. To avoid sleep-related issues with the results, be sure to get a good night's sleep before the test.
Don't take chances with your future. If you need to take a lie detector test, use the tips provided here to help you avoid costly mistakes.
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