Asking Questions in an Investigation

This course teaches skills for effective interviewing, especially in investigations. Former homicide task force leader and author Colin McLaren explains the art of asking investigative questions and getting to the truth.

A manager or workplace investigator trying to ascertain the truth and resolve a problem needs to visualize their interview goal, then chart a series of questions with a suspect or employee. Questions must be subtle, short, establish and confirm facts, open-ended to uncover details, methodical and numerous, monitoring the person's responses and taking cues from what they say. Colin discusses the importance of building rapport and listening with an open mind. Above all, body language must be calm and professional.

Examine the skills for effective interviewing and questioning of witnesses and suspects;
Visualize the problem and the Q&A path;
Prepare questions and use them to build to a goal;
Build rapport to win trust;
Use closed questions to confirm facts and open questions for establishing details;
Examine a person's answers and demeanor, and listen with an open mind;
Show a calm and professional approach;