Webinar Series: Conducting Workplace Investigations

The Advantages of Having a Third-Party Workplace Investigator -JoLynn Haresign, SHRM-CP 

In today’s changing work environment, maintaining a fair, transparent, and amicable workplace is essential for the success of any organization. In my experience, conflicts, complaints, and issues are inevitable. When they arise, the method of addressing them can significantly impact the overall health of the organization. One effective strategy is to employ a third-party workplace investigator. Here are some key advantages of doing so:

Impartial Judgment: Third-party investigators are neutral and unbiased, ensuring that investigations are conducted without favoritism or prejudice. This objectivity helps in delivering fair outcomes, which are crucial for maintaining trust within the organization. External investigators do not have prior relationships with the employees involved, which eliminates any preconceived notions or biases that might influence the investigation.

Specialized Knowledge: Third-party investigators often specialize in workplace investigations and possess extensive knowledge of employment laws, regulations, and best practices. Experienced investigators are skilled in handling sensitive issues, conducting interviews, gathering evidence, and analyzing facts meticulously to reach accurate conclusions.

Protecting Privacy: Third-party investigators are adept at maintaining the confidentiality of all parties involved. This is crucial in preventing workplace gossip, protecting reputations, and encouraging employees to come forward without fear of retaliation.

Focused Attention: External investigators can dedicate their full attention and focus to the investigation without the distractions of other job responsibilities. This often results in a more complete and timely investigation.

Comprehensive Reports: They can provide detailed and comprehensive reports that outline findings, conclusions, and some recommendations, which can be crucial for decision-making and future prevention strategies.

Improved Workplace Culture: When employees know that complaints will be managed impartially and professionally, they are more likely to report issues, leading to a more open and communicative workplace culture.

Demonstrating Commitment: Employing a third-party investigator shows a company’s commitment to maintaining a fair and safe work environment, which can boost employee morale and trust.

Addressing Root Causes: Thorough investigations can identify underlying issues that contribute to conflicts, allowing the organization to address and resolve these root causes.

Preventive Measures: Based on the findings, organizations can implement preventive measures and training to avoid similar issues in the future.

So, whether you are an HR department of one, or have a team of HR experts to support your organization, incorporating a third-party workplace investigator into your strategies offers many advantages that can significantly benefit your organization.

Please join Our Exclusive 3-Part Webinar Series on Workplace Investigations!

I am excited to invite you to our exclusive three-part webinar series on workplace investigations, designed to provide you with valuable insights and practical strategies for handling workplace issues effectively and efficiently.

Part 1: Understanding the Basics

Date: August 14, 2024, Time: 12:30 pm EDT

In this session, we will cover the fundamentals of workplace investigations, including the legal framework, types of investigations, and the role of an investigator. Learn the essential steps to start an investigation and set a solid foundation for a fair and thorough process.

Part 2: Conducting Effective Investigations

Date: August 28, 2024, Time: 12:30 pm EDT

This session delves into the intricacies of conducting investigations, focusing on best practices for gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and maintaining confidentiality. We will also discuss shared challenges and how to overcome them to ensure a smooth investigation process.

Part 3: Reporting and Resolution

Date: September 11, 2024, Time: 12:30 pm EDT

In the final part of our series, we will explore how to compile your findings into a comprehensive report, present your conclusions, and implement effective resolutions. Additionally, we will provide guidance on preventive measures and policies to mitigate future workplace issues.

How to Register:

Click here to register for the webinar series. Once registered, you will receive a confirmation email with detailed instructions on how to join each session. We look forward to your participation and hope this series will empower you with the knowledge and tools to conduct effective workplace investigations.