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Interview Preparation Tips -- Good Cop
or Bad Cop?
The Good Cop, Bad Cop approach is best left for Hollywood. First
of all it doesn't work (too many people watch cop shows), and secondly,
it borders on intimidation. Aggressive approaches or interviewing
styles are unethical and counterproductive in any workplace accident
investigations.
The interview process should not be considered a substitute for
a thorough and proper investigation. In other words, don't ignore
all the other evidence at your disposal in favour of just talking
to people about what happened.
Like most things in life, much of your success depends on how well
you prepare and plan. Here are a few preparation tips:
- Identify your goal for each interview. What do you hope to
learn from each witness? Go with you best witness first, likely
a supervisor or eyewitness.
- Learn a little about the witness's background. This may be
helpful in establishing rapport or in evaluating credibility.
- Identify whom best to conduct the interview. For a variety
of reasons it may not be the person leading the investigation.
- Ensure privacy regardless of where the interview is conducted.
Remember, secrets are disclosed in moments of intimacy.
- Rooms used for interviews should be available for the duration
of the interview. Arrange the room before the witness arrives
to be as warm and inviting as possible.
- Remove all distractions. Even a paper clip in the witness's
hand can be distracting. A safety poster on the wall may well
be a negative reminder from a witness's point of view. Post
a sign on the door saying not to disturb. Turn off cell and
desk phones.
- Have all the material required for the interview such as
pens, and paper with you. This includes maps, plans, photographs
etc. you may wish the witness to review.
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