Investigating an employee complaint or allegation is a delicate process. Finding a workplace investigator who is experienced and objective and will maintain confidentiality is essential.
Here are some tips on how to find the best workplace investigator for your organization
Define the scope of the investigation
Determining the scope of the investigation is paramount when choosing a workplace investigator. Every workplace issue needs accurate assessment and careful consideration of workplace history before forming a plan to move forward.
The scope of the investigation should provide an adequately detailed analysis of relevant aspects and persons involved, with time and energy budget, so that we can gain enough information about specific workplace issues and any related individuals or policies that need further exploration. This careful consideration ensures that any workplace decision will be based on reliable data and consider all potential factors of workplace dynamics.
Understand your state’s laws and regulations
It is essential to understand the laws and regulations in your state. State labour laws and regulations can be complex and cover many workplace issues, including employee rights, workplace safety, and wages.
Knowing the regulatory framework employers must abide by helps ensure fair workplace practices and provides legal protection for workplace investigators, who are often critically involved in the decision-making process during workplace investigations. With knowledge of your state’s laws and regulations, workplace investigators can confidently approach matters within their scope of expertise legally.
Choose an investigator who is experienced in workplace investigations
Selecting an investigator with extensive experience in workplace investigations is key to ensuring a thorough and unbiased assessment of workplace-related complaints. An experienced investigator has the skills and understanding necessary to evaluate workplace issues, comprehend their complexity, and develop effective solutions.
An investigator should also have an in-depth knowledge of workplace regulations and policies — as well as legal precedent — to ensure compliance with local laws and minimize organizational risk. Most importantly, an experienced workplace investigation practitioner knows how to conduct investigations confidentially while protecting the interests of all parties involved.
Make sure the investigator is objective and impartial
A workplace investigation is crucial to ensure allegations are addressed properly, so the investigator appointed to look into them must remain objective and impartial throughout the process.
All parties involved should be confident in the investigator’s ability to handle the investigation reasonably, ensuring all facts are analyzed objectively and decisions are made accordingly. By adopting this approach, workplace investigations will be handled ethically and transparently, creating an environment of trust and belonging for all employees.
Ask for references from past clients
As a workplace investigator, having references from past clients is essential in ensuring each investigation is conducted fairly and effectively. Requesting feedback and experience reports allows you to maintain current records of client satisfaction and offers insight into the performance of previous workplace investigations.
Obtaining these testimonies can prove invaluable when working on assessment cases, as they provide the opportunity to compare a range of experiences while allowing for comparative analysis between earlier and later workplace investigations. When asking for references, be mindful of the client’s privacy needs and restrictions to guarantee a fair account of the situation that is accurate and comprehensive.
Get a written agreement that outlines the scope of work and fees charged by the investigator
When engaging workplace investigators, it is essential to ensure that both parties have a shared understanding of the scope of the investigation and any fees charged. A written agreement containing these details should be mutually agreed upon before work begins. This helps to confirm and formalize expectations, establishing clear guidelines for all parties to facilitate a successful workplace investigation and minimize potential legal issues.
Workplace investigations are important to maintain a fair and productive work environment. You must hire an experienced investigator who is objective and impartial to ensure the validity of the investigation.
