Closing the Interview
Hello Investigators!
Welcome back! So far, we’ve covered the common types of interviews, as well as the planning and process of a typical interview. In this final post of the Interview series, we’ll be wrapping up on the interview.
Why is a proper wrap-up of an interview important?
Investigators put in a lot of effort throughout the whole interview process - from planning to execution. However, the follow-up actions such as documentation, are usually neglected by many who may think “I have all the information that I need, that’s all there is to it”. Let’s be reminded that the interview process is not truly completed if it is not closed off properly. Each part of the interview series shared thus far should be treated with equal importance. In this post, we’ll discuss what needs to be done / taken note of when closing an interview.
Closing off the interview
Recall from the interview process, that the end of the interview should be for the Investigator to double check and confirm the information received from the interviewee. At this stage, the interviewer should also note down the key points and information of the interview for future reference and action.
After the closing
With all the findings now noted down, the Investigator should then carefully plan out the next steps to take. It’s good practice (and usually required) for the Investigator to convert all the findings and information into formal written documentation (i.e., Investigation Report - more on this soon!). This is especially important as the interview may be used as evidence in court or for other investigation purposes, and a formal documentation would be needed to establish / enhance the credibility of the findings / information as evidence.
Investigators should also follow up on any loose ends arising from the interview as soon as possible. Usually, the interview is the last part of the investigation; but when the Investigator conducts the interview that is merely information-seeking in nature, following up on the possible leads as soon as the interview ends becomes quintessential. This allows the Investigator to deconflict any contradiction, and call for a follow-up interview while the issue still remains fresh in the interviewee’s memory.
Conclusion
“Interviewing is a lot like talking, but you have to guide the conversation. You have to know what you want and go about getting it.” - Anthony DeCurtis. As investigators conducting the interview, remember to adequately prepare for the interview, remain professional, and neatly follow-up on post-interviews to complete the investigation.
With that, congratulations on completing the interview series with us! We hope that you’ve gained a better understanding on how to properly plan, execute and close off an interview. Feel free to share other tips and thoughts you may have with us!
