Employee Investigations: What You Need to Know

As an employer, you have the responsibility to maintain a safe and respectful workplace for all employees. However, employee misconduct or violations of company policies can occur, and in such cases, an investigation may be necessary to ensure that the matter is resolved in an appropriate and efficient manner. In this article, we'll cover the basics of employee investigations, including what they are, when they are necessary, and how to conduct them. What Are Employee Investigations? Employee investigations are an internal process used to gather information and assess whether an employee has engaged in misconduct or violated company policies. Misconduct can take many forms, including harassment, theft, discrimination, or other violations of workplace rules. An investigation is initiated when there is a complaint or suspicion of wrongdoing, and the goal is to determine the facts and identify any misconduct or policy violations. When Are Employee Investigations Necessary? Employee investigations may be necessary when there is a complaint or suspicion of employee misconduct. It is important to conduct an investigation as soon as possible after receiving a complaint to prevent further harm to employees or the company. Investigations may also be necessary in cases where there is a violation of company policy or legal requirements, such as workplace safety regulations. How to Conduct an Employee Investigation Conducting an employee investigation involves several steps. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to conduct an investigation: Determine the Need for an Investigation: Once a complaint or suspicion of wrongdoing is reported, assess whether an investigation is necessary. This decision should be based on the severity of the issue and whether it is in violation of company policy or legal requirements. Plan the Investigation: Develop a plan for the investigation, including a timeline, the individuals involved, and the information needed to conduct the investigation. Gather Evidence: Gather evidence related to the complaint or suspicion of wrongdoing. This may include interviewing witnesses, reviewing documents, or collecting physical evidence. Conduct Interviews: Interview the individuals involved in the complaint or suspicion of wrongdoing. This includes the complainant, any witnesses, and the accused employee. Analyze the Evidence: Analyze the evidence collected during the investigation to determine whether there is a violation of company policy or legal requirements. Take Action: Based on the findings of the investigation, determine what action needs to be taken. This may include disciplinary action, termination of employment, or other corrective action. Follow Up: Monitor the situation after the investigation and take any additional action if necessary. Tips for Conducting Employee Investigations

Conducting an employee investigation can be a sensitive and challenging process. Here are some tips to help ensure that the investigation is conducted effectively and fairly: Be Objective: The investigator should approach the investigation in an objective and impartial manner. Avoid making assumptions or jumping to conclusions before all the facts have been gathered. Maintain Confidentiality: Maintain confidentiality throughout the investigation process. Only share information on a need-to-know basis. Communicate Clearly: Clearly communicate the purpose of the investigation, the process involved, and the expected outcome. Document Everything: Document every step of the investigation, including interviews, evidence collected, and actions taken. Seek Expert Advice: Consider seeking expert advice, such as from an HR professional or legal counsel, to ensure that the investigation is conducted appropriately. If the investigation involves a senior leader or member of the HR or People team, consider hiring an external investigator in order to maintain neutrality. Conclusion Employee investigations are an important tool to ensure that employees are held accountable for misconduct or violations of company policies. Conducting investigations fairly and effectively can help maintain a safe and respectful workplace for all employees. If you need assistance with conducting employee investigations, Athlone Consulting can help. Our experienced team of professionals can provide guidance on how to conduct investigations in a fair and objective manner. Contact us today to learn more