Effective interviewing is a critical part of any investigation. Here are some best practices to follow when conducting interviews during an investigation:
Prepare thoroughly: Before conducting an interview, review all available information related to the investigation. Develop a list of questions to ask the interviewee, and consider how you will approach sensitive or potentially confrontational topics.
Establish rapport: Building rapport with the interviewee can help create a more relaxed and productive environment. Start the interview with some small talk to establish a connection, and demonstrate that you are empathetic to their situation.
Use open-ended questions: Use open-ended questions that encourage the interviewee to provide detailed answers rather than yes/no responses. Avoid leading questions that might suggest a particular answer.
Listen actively: Listening actively involves paying attention to the interviewee's responses, asking follow-up questions, and demonstrating empathy. Make eye contact and show that you are genuinely interested in what they have to say.
Watch for nonverbal cues: Nonverbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice can provide insight into the interviewee's emotional state and credibility. Watch for inconsistencies between what is being said and the interviewee's nonverbal cues.
Document the interview: Documenting the interview is critical to preserving the information gathered and ensuring that it can be used in the investigation. Take detailed notes during the interview, or record the interview if appropriate.
Summarize and clarify: At the end of the interview, summarize the key points discussed and ask the interviewee to clarify any points that are unclear. Confirm any agreements or commitments made during the interview.
Follow up: Following up with the interviewee can help clarify any points that were not clear during the interview and show that you are taking the investigation seriously. Thank the interviewee for their time, and let them know how they can reach you if they have additional information to share.
By following these best practices, investigators can conduct effective and productive interviews during an investigation.