Consistency in Workplace Investigations: 5 Practical Strategies

In the world of workplace investigations, each case brings its own nuances and complexities, but the importance of maintaining consistency throughout the investigative process cannot be understated. Inconsistencies lead to confusion, distrust, and legal risk. That’s why in today’s newsletter we’re covering 5 strategies to put consistency into practice in workplace investigations.

The Foundation of Trust

Consistency is not only a key element of fairness but also an essential tool for building trust among employees. When employees perceive investigations as inconsistent or biased, they’re often less willing to come forward with concerns, important information or to engage in the investigative process. And – if you’re anything like me, you’ve encountered “forum shopping” or rather, employees who believe the choice of investigator may impact the outcome of their complaint. A consistent approach demonstrates that all employees’ concerns will be taken seriously and promotes a sense of fairness and trust.

5 Strategies to Embrace Consistency

1. Standardized Procedures

To ensure consistency, start by implementing standardized procedures for every investigation. Outline a clear step-by-step process that you and/or your team can follow. This will ensure that every investigation is handled with the same level of care and diligence.

2. Training and Education

Invest in training. Sometimes the consistent application of investigative practices requires training. In 2020 an employee was awarded $17.2M due to an unskilled internal investigation. None of us want to end up in that predicament – make sure you and your team are equipped with the knowledge required to conduct investigations with fairness and impartiality.

3. Robust Documentation

Consistent documentation is essential. Maintain comprehensive records of every investigation, from initial complaints to final outcomes. This documentation should adhere to a standardized format and include all relevant details.

4. Equitable Treatment

Ensure that all employees involved in an investigation are treated fairly. This means consistent communication, access to information, and fair treatment throughout the process. Make it a point to follow the same guidelines for all parties involved.

5. Ongoing Evaluation

Consistency isn't a one-and-done; it's an ongoing commitment. Regularly evaluate and assess your investigative process. Gather feedback from participants and adapt your approach as needed to ensure that it aligns with this commitment.

The Transformation Begins with You

Consistency in workplace investigations is more than just good practice; it's a necessity. Consistency not only protects the organization legally but also promotes fairness and efficiency. By embracing these strategies, we can ensure that we are building trust and credibility in our investigations.

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