Depending upon the issue being investigated, workplace investigations can quickly become complex and involved. The very need for an an investigation suggests that workplace morale is strained or already at risk.
Before beginning a workplace investigation, it’s essential to consider the effect on the individuals directly involved as well as the wider workforce. There are a few core elements we consider to be vital features of a successful investigation.
What is a successful workplace investigation?
The primary goal for a workplace investigation is to understand why a complaint is made and to respond appropriately and legally. It is important to follow an investigatory process that will effectively achieve this outcome without causing further harm.
Another important outcome for any investigation, however, is to maintain employee morale. An investigation itself, if poorly managed, can become a source of further harm to already traumatised individuals. It can potentially be a source of future complaints and issues that will need to be dealt with again. The secondary goal of any investigation is therefore to avoid causing any further trauma or disruption in the workplace.
For a successful workplace investigation, it is vital that the investigative process be completed with respect and consideration for all participants. The methodology used to achieve this is known as a “trauma-informed approach”. Successful outcomes can be achieved by engaging a workplace relations specialist with trauma-informed investigation experience.
Why a trauma-informed approach?
A trauma-informed approach acknowledges that employees who speak out with complaints may already be experiencing stress and anxiety. Whilst any investigation can be psychologically challenging for participants, those dealing with serious workplace complaints can be especially so. Investigations relating to violence, harassment or discrimination often involve employees who are already experiencing trauma as a result of the incident they’ve reported.
By acknowledging this, workplace investigators strive to be mindful of the emotional and psychological impact that the investigation may have. The processes used in a trauma-informed approach seek to be more compassionate towards those involved and take into consideration their unique needs.
Investigators are trained to recognise signs of existing trauma in the individuals they speak with. In this way, investigators are able to adapt their process to minimise stress to those they interview. Even more so, it minimises the chance that interviewees will shut down and not divulge important details that may be important for the investigation.
Speed is of the essence
The longer an investigation proceeds, the more likely it is that workplace morale will be impacted. Even considering a trauma-informed approach, investigations can cause stress and anxiety for employees. In general, the faster an investigation is completed, the better the outcomes.
It is extremely beneficial to engage experienced workplace investigators, particularly for complex workplace investigations. Their knowledge and methodology will allow them to quickly appraise the situation and setup processes for a fast resolution. This allows a quick return to (relative) normalcy within the organisation and the least impact on staff morale.
Workplace Advantage
Workplace Advantage are veteran workplace investigators with experience in trauma-informed approach methods. Our investigators are trained to recognise symptoms of trauma in the individuals they are interviewing. This allows them to adjust their approach to suit the individual’s needs and therefore ensure a successful outcome for the entire process.
If you have any questions about our process, or have a need for workplace investigators, please contact us now.