Workplace investigations are essential to employers in many ways. Done correctly and thoroughly, an investigation can identify the source of existing issues and prevent future ones from arising, protect your business against potential legal consequences, and demonstrate commitment towards fairness and non-interference with outside parties.

1. Qualities Of an Effective
Workplace Investigator
Workplace investigations are essential to employers in
many ways. Done correctly and thoroughly, an investigation
can identify the source of existing issues and prevent future
ones from arising, protect your business against potential
legal consequences, and demonstrate commitment
towards fairness and non-interference with outside parties.
Factors to consider
To ensure effective results, it is important to enlist a
competent investigator - this article guides selecting one
that meets these criteria.

2. Time and attention
With workplace investigations often requiring a substantial
commitment of company resources and investigator time,
success hinges upon the ability to devote ample focus.
From outlining an investigative plan to crafting the final work
product, any successful inquiry necessitates significant,
sustained attention for it is carried out effectively - no matter
how large or small its original scope may have been.
Planning and management skills
The investigator must be a master of project organisation to
make sure the investigation runs efficiently and effectively.
They will need to craft an ambitious timeline, identify pieces
of evidence that could prove helpful in their inquiry, consider
interim action when needed, and determine who they
should speak with - prioritising them as necessary - while
being prepared for any changes.
Forward-thinking mindset
An effective investigation requires careful consideration of
how it will impact the organisation. Investigators should
strategically sequence interviews and strive to cushion any
morale blows associated with their inquiry to prevent
rumours from compromising progress. Additionally, they
must thoroughly avoid legal pitfalls that could lead to costly
losses—all while adhering to company regulations!
Knows when to ask for help

3. Successful investigations require an investigator to think on
their feet and stay one step ahead. Having two investigators
present in cases involving intricate allegations can mitigate
risks while gathering crucial evidence from witnesses. To
ensure no opportunities slip through the cracks during
interviews, it's important for a PI to consider how best they
can juggle tasks effectively before conducting any
questioning.
Establish rapport
A successful investigator can quickly build a trustful
relationship with an interviewee and maintain impartiality
when communicating with the accused. This helps ensure
that everyone involved can be confident in sharing valuable
information and facts needed for effective investigation
results.
Respectful
As an investigator, it is critical to demonstrate respect for
the interviewee no matter what claims are being made.
Otherwise, the trust may be broken, and vital information
could go unnoticed.
Objective
To remain unbiased, an effective investigator must
approach all investigations with impartiality. Even if the
evidence seems to lead towards one conclusion, they must
ensure that no stone is left unturned and every fact remains
considered to reach a sound judgment.

4. An experienced investigator knows that the art of a
successful investigation lies in being able to multitask and
read between the lines and honing their ability to listen
carefully. It may even be necessary for them to craft follow-
up questions based on what someone isn't saying—skills
that must then be reflected accurately within written findings
if necessary.
Credibility matters
An effective investigator can assess an interviewee's
credibility using a holistic approach. This means accessing
the memory, stories of others involved, and any potential
signs that may indicate deception, all while considering
physical attributes such as demeanour or body language
during the interview.
Investigators need to make impartial assessments without
relying on pre-existing assumptions or biases. Therefore
they must recognise their obligation to reach conclusions
based on facts alone.
Investing in the right investigator for your workplace
investigation can be crucial. Get ahead by familiarising
yourself with key traits that set successful investigators
apart, such as objectivity and excellent communication
skills.
©Tell Jane