Module 3

Module Introduction

  • Overview of Preparation for Interviews

    • Emphasis on the importance of preparation as the first step to conducting a successful interview.

Case Study: Morgan

  • Role Assignment

    • Students will assume the role of an internal investigator.

  • Scenario Presentation

    • You receive an email from Morgan, stating: "I want to speak to you about a situation. It's important, and you need to know about it."

  • Reflective Questions

    • How would you respond to Morgan's email?

    • Identify two preparatory actions for the meeting with Morgan and explain their significance.

    • Did you mentally assign a gender to Morgan when reading the email?

Preparing for the Interview

  • Importance of Information Review

    • Considerations for how much information to gather before an intake interview.

    • Objective: To determine the appropriate approach before the actual meeting.

    • Risks of Over-Information:

    • Excessive information can lead to assumptions and biases.

    • It's cautioned to refrain from researching the complainant before the meeting to avoid preconceived notions.

    • Useful Information to Consider:

    • Organizational charts and relevant details when necessary for understanding the situation.

    • Acknowledgment that pre-existing knowledge may skew perception during the interview, affecting the fairness of the investigation.

Location of Interviews

  • Considerations for Interview Setting

    • Decide on the mode of interview (in-person, video, or audio call): Each has distinct benefits and drawbacks.

  • In-Person Interviews:

    • Select a private location free from disturbances (e.g., avoid glass-enclosed spaces).

    • Seating Arrangement: Caddy corner seating is preferred to foster a comfortable atmosphere versus sitting directly across.

    • Prepare necessary items: paper, pen, tissues, and water accessible for the interviewee.

  • Video Interviews:

    • Consider the investigator's background and setting to maintain professionalism.

  • Audio Interviews:

    • Understand the communication method (personal vs. work phone).

    • Confirm logistics in advance to avoid complications during the interview.

Presence of Additional Parties

  • Deciding on Attendees

    • Determine in advance who can accompany the interviewee (another employee, third party).

    • Legal and regulatory considerations that may allow the interviewee to have additional support during the meeting.

    • Handling requests for legal representation from the interviewee and organizational protocols for managing such scenarios.

    • Transparency with the interviewee about whether additional persons will be present in the room to maintain a structured environment.

  • Impact of Additional Individuals

    • Being mindful of how having extra parties in the meeting might affect interviewee cooperation and information gathering.

    • Preparation strategies to mitigate unexpected developments concerning attendees.

Case Study Debrief

  • Response to Morgan's Email

    • Neutrality is essential in responses; an example would be: "I'm following up on your email and scheduling a time to meet."

    • Importance of responding promptly due to the perceived urgency conveyed in Morgan's email.

  • Reflective Questions Regarding Assumptions:

    • Consider if assumptions about Morgan's communication style influenced your interpretation, such as the use of exclamation points.

    • Reflect on any gender biases impacting responses based on prior knowledge of Morgan’s performance (e.g., strong performer vs. chronic complainer).

Module Wrap-Up

  • Key Themes Explored

    • Summary of critical elements in preparation for interviews:

    • Information review strategy.

    • Optimal location for interviews.

    • Consideration for additional participants in the meeting.

  • Understanding biases and their implications when conducting interviews is crucial for fair and effective investigation practices.