Workplace investigations are triggered when an employee files an internal complaint. These complaints can come from a minor conflict issue or be of a serious nature, such as harassment or discrimination. They can also be the cause of personality clashes or other misunderstandings or miscommunications that, left unaddressed, could quickly escalate and create legal exposure.
ImagineHR’s professional investigation services can assist you in handling the most difficult or sensitive workplace issue. Our investigators are trained to conduct investigatory interviews that will defuse the situation (if it has become heated or emotional), gather the facts in an objective way (giving a fair and full opportunity to each individual to explain their position), and following a best practice questioning method (to uncover key evidence and test credibility).
Not only can workplace morale be adversely impacted when conflict breaks out in your work environment, but the legal risks can be significant. Judges and juries today expect employers to put forth good faith effort to resolve issues in an unbiased and impartial way – giving every witness involved an opportunity to tell their side of the story. The anti-harassment and discrimination laws require “prompt, remedial action” be taken. Therefore, it’s imperative to act fast and take immediate action. Getting an outside third-party involved can prove you have done your due diligence and taken the issues seriously. This goes a long way in court!
Today, employees are more empowered than ever before. They know their rights and want to know their concerns are being fairly addressed. Employers must be extra vigilant in responding to employee issues and complaints – and we can help. Our HR professionals specialize in handling investigations and can determine (1) what really occurred and (2) what the right resolution should be.
Our ImagineHR professionals are experienced in investigation techniques. Through our comprehensive fact-gathering approach, we conduct interviews, document the facts and provide an impartial view of the situation. After reviewing all the facts and weighing the credibility of the witnesses, we collaborate with the client to decide the best course of action moving forward.
When called to conduct a workplace investigation, we will work with you to:
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Identify all parties involved and schedule the interview meetings;
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Help decide the interim action necessary to prevent any further disruption or potential harm;
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Prepare investigatory interview questions based on specific facts and circumstances involved;
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Conduct the interviews in a private, neutral setting and document all information provided;
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Evaluate all feedback provided and evidence discovered at the conclusion of the interviews;
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Generate report that can be used by management to decide appropriate corrective action;
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Ensure workplace investigation report and all evidence is confidentially stored; and
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Follow up with management/employees to ensure final resolution.