How to Conduct Successful Workplace Investigations: A Practical Guide for HR and Security Managers
Conducting investigations in the workplace is part and parcel of corporate life.
These are typically handled by someone in the human resources department or the company’s security manager — if one exists.
Unfortunately, in most cases, neither of these individuals truly understands how to conduct a professional investigation that positions the company for success.
That’s not to say every case ends in failure. There are many success stories and CCMA (Council for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration) victories where strong workplace investigations enabled companies to prove and win their cases.
However, there are countless more where poor investigative skills, inadequate evidence gathering, and reliance on “pot luck” led to costly litigation, embarrassing retractions, or reinstatements.
The 9 Phases of a Successful Workplace Investigation
To illustrate why not everyone is equipped to handle workplace investigations, especially those with criminal implications, ask yourself:
Do you — or the person responsible for investigating incidents — know and understand the nine (9) key phases of an effective workplace investigation?
- Assessment
- Planning and interpretation
- Collection of facts and related information
- Verification and detailed analysis
- Input and decision-making
- Review of concrete evidence vs prima facie evidence
- Case preparation and charge sheet drafting
- Presentation and understanding of cross-examination
- Prevention of recurring or similar incidents
Proceeding without these fundamentals is not only risky — it’s foolhardy.
Investigators who impose structure, apply process, and understand the investigative lifecycle hold a major advantage. They also stand out as reliable, fair, and professional compared to the “fake it till I make it” crowd.
When Employees Outsmart the Investigators
Employees can be cunning, even manipulative — and more resourceful than management may realise.
In cases that could lead to criminal prosecution, effective investigation techniques are required — often techniques the suspects themselves have never encountered.
Unless you are a seasoned investigator with the right resources, implementing these strategies successfully is extremely difficult.
Your Toolbox of Resources
There’s a well-known saying: “It’s not what you know, but who you know.”
In the investigation environment — both private and public — this couldn’t be more true.
A great investigator is supported by a network of specialised professionals.
Take cell phone forensics for example.
Without the right software, analysis experience, and access to a skilled polygraph examiner, crucial evidence may be lost and suspects misidentified.
In 34 years of experience, I’ve rarely encountered non-investigative companies that have all these tools under one roof.
This lack of a complete “toolbox” remains one of the biggest barriers to successful internal investigations.
It reminds me of the plight of the six CIA operatives left stranded in 13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi — resourceful but under-equipped.
So, What Should You Do?
First and foremost — if you don’t have the skills, resources, and time to conduct a proper investigation, don’t try.
This is the golden rule. You wouldn’t defuse a bomb based on a YouTube video — so don’t treat corporate investigations any differently.
You can assist and oversee an investigation, and your HR head should contribute input.
But running a criminal workplace investigation yourself is a recipe for bias, error, and risk.
Serious cases should always involve an independent, professional forensic investigation team.
I, Kyle Condon, the author of this blog, encourage you to evaluate whether your team is truly equipped for the job — or whether calling in an external forensic investigation company is the smarter move.
Two Key Questions to Ask Yourself
Question 1:
Does your company have an effective intelligence-driven strategy supported by reliable undercover operatives or informers?
Question 2:
Do you genuinely believe your company is suffering due to dishonest employees — and have sufficient evidence to take action?
If your answer to either question is “No,” it’s time to contact a professional private investigation service for peace of mind and legal protection.
South Africa’s Top Five Workplace Investigation Agencies
In my 34 years in the field, I’ve had the privilege of meeting some of South Africa’s finest investigative teams.
Below are the top five (5) companies I respect most for workplace investigation services:
- D&K Management Consultants cc
- SSC Legacy
- IRS
- Rick Crouch
- Zero Foundation
As always, I hope you found this edition of Strawberries and Cyanide informative — and maybe even motivating.
Thank you for reading, and remember: sound investigation is built on skill, structure, and support.
For more information about the services offered by D&K Management Consultants cc, click the button below.