Interviewing a Difficult Witness? It Begins With Understanding
A few weeks ago, during a training class with agency investigators, an interesting discussion arose about the best way to interview a witness whose behavioral health condition or experiences with trauma make them difficult to talk to. How can an investigator get the answers needed, not trigger an episode, de-escalate emotions, and show empathy, all while maintaining neutrality?
That’s not something a lawyer can easily answer. Luckily, FELTG has an instructor who specializes in this area. Shana Palmieri, LCSW, will present information on interviewing difficult witnesses during Workplace Investigations Week (August 2-6) and on October 21 in the 60-minute webinar Workplace Investigations: Successfully Interviewing Witnesses With Mental and Behavioral Health Conditions. Anyone who conducts IG, misconduct or EEO investigations, or meets with employees for any reason, will benefit from this practical advice.
This month’s newsletter includes a to-do list for the new MSPB members, why progressive discipline for probationers is probably a bad idea, lessons on leadership, and much more.
Take care,
Deborah J. Hopkins, FELTG President