Advanced Investigation Methods

When a normal investigation, including interviews and statements from employees and other individuals, does not seem to be giving you the information you want, you may consider some alternative information-gathering methods.

Before you do use more advanced methods of investigation, be sure to weigh the practicality of the information you would get against the time and trouble you'll go to get it. And remember - you still may not get the information you want.

Warning In investigating, it is important not to trample the privacy rights of your employees. Make sure that the methods of investigation you adopt are legal. If you have doubts, consult an attorney or try to find another way to get the information you need.

Some of the methods that can be used in certain circumstances are:

• workplace searches and surveillance
• monitoring phone calls and e-mail
• lie detector testing

For a policy that covers the issues of monitoring and polygraph testing, check out our sample policy in our Business Tools area.