Interview Etiquette

Sometimes, a great interview is all that stands between you and a confession. During your interview process, you may be speaking with several different individuals. The questions you ask and how you present yourself as an interviewer will vary based on the person you are interviewing. Those that you are interviewing may pay attention to how prepared you are as well as to how you conduct yourself during the interview.

Preparation

• Develop your line of questioning in advance
• Be sure to get answers to all your questions
  

If possible, have a second body to listen in on the interview

• Two heads are better than one
• A second note-taker
  

Obtain signed statements from the witness, victim, and subject

• Include date and time
• Sign as a witness
  

Document

• Date and start time of each interview
• Who was present
• Keep it confidential – need to know basis
• Disclose at the start of the interview the nature of the investigation
  

Be appropriately honest about the general purpose of the interview and the role the individual plays – , i.e., “I am investigating an allegation of harassment in the workplace and need to speak with you regarding your knowledge or involvement in the incident.”