Interviewing -- The Correct Definition

The most spot-on definition would be Conversations.

Really, that is what they are if done properly. We’ve all had to endure interviews for various and sundry reasons in our lives. Sometimes they felt more like an interrogation and others a shallow attempt at “getting to know us.” Either way, we probably left the meeting feeling more than a bit dissatisfied and maybe even cheated. As a professional investigator I believe that the interview is the most important aspect of the entire investigative process. Without that special interchange with subjects, witnesses, etc. what do you really have? Not much. There is no other way to collect the facts, even those with a tinge of embellishment, in order to create an accurate picture of incidents. If the picture is “off” then a solid finding and/or recommendation cannot be made with any assurance. The interviewer has just damaged his/her best tool.

Granted that some people are not quite as skilled at small talk and chit-chat as others. Certain interviewers, while they may be very competent in their jobs, can be intensely focused and often do not realize the benefit of slowing down and taking time to well, actually converse. By their very nature interviews are designed to elicit information - whether it be simple question and answer mode or exploratory style where seemingly irrelevant facts/opinions/observations uncover a treasure trove of information as responses ripple out from the inquiry and expand to include everything but the proverbial kitchen sink.

As with social conversation (one only need refer to Jane Austen) so much is gleaned from what is not said directly or inferred and always at (by today’s standard) a glacial pace. Patience is certainly a virtue in this instance.

Jane Cracraft writes in the May/June 2011 issue of P.I. Magazine that “Conducting a Great Interview” starts with manipulating the physical environment of the gathering. The writer also suggests what to do in controlling not just the pace of the interview but guiding an unfocused witness and calming a suspicious or nervous witness through observation of body language.

Jane and I agree that in today’s world (and I must add especially in the workplace) most persons do not have anyone who truly listens to them or pays attention. Of course, we all pay attention (now, for the wrong reason) when they formalize a complaint and we as investigators and employers MUST listen to them. Not very proactive, is it.