Interviews: Back to the Basics

As a private investigator you interview a lot of people with information about your case. Interviewee’s often include; clients, witnesses, suspects, and others such as; subject matter experts with knowledge germane to the investigation. 

Following are the “Lucky 7” steps to a successful interview: 

1. Select a private location to conduct the interview. People being interviewed are more comfortable when they are away from others. If interviewing someone at their location, ask them to arrange for a meeting room, or location where you can talk in private. Coffee shops, restaurants, or other public meeting venues may be appropriate when interviewing subject matter experts. 
2. Begin each interview by introducing yourself, explaining the topic, or topics you want to discuss, and approximately how long you expect the interview to last if known. Thank them for taking the time to meet with you. 
3. Establish rapport with the interviewee. It is important for them to be comfortable in talking with you to increase the potential for success. Remember, your title alone may be intimidating to an individual being interviewed. Start out with a few general questions not specific to the investigation. “How are you today?”, “This seems to be a nice place to work, how do you like working here?” Keep questions positive and ask follow-up questions based on their answers. TIP: Start steps 1-2 without your note taking materials. When you get to step 3, tell them you need a minute to get ready and start the chit-chat. Stop what you are doing when they begin to answer your questions and devote your attention to them. Great way to build rapport, while relaxing your interviewee. ​
4. After building a rapport, announce you are going to begin the interview. “Ok, I have some questions to ask you to assist with my investigation, so if you are ready, let’s begin.” Notice, “...so if you are ready…”. This is their opportunity to mentally prepare, and they can get a refill of coffee if needed. 
5. Have your questions pre-planned, already written out. Ask your questions, clarify answers, and make notes as you go along. Make sure your question has been fully answered before moving on to the next question. 
6. Before you conclude the interview, ask them if there is anything they would like to add, or are there any answers they thought about that they would like to add too. End with a closing statement, “This about concludes my interview questions. Is there anything else that you can add that may assist us in the investigation?”, “Are there any answers that you have given that you would like to clarify or add too?” 
7. Closing the interview. Thank the interviewee for their time and assistance. It is important to continue the rapport building. Provide them with your contact information in the event they remember something, or they learn of new information that may assist you. This is a good time to follow-up with the answers they gave you during rapport building step, “Hope your day continues to go well.” “You really like to work here. That’s great to have a job you enjoy.” 

Pre-planning your interview by following these simple steps will help you get the most out of any interview you conduct. (Below is a sample interview you can download)

---

sampleinterview.pdf
File Size:	29 kb
File Type:	pdf

Download File

---