How to Conduct a Workplace Investigation: The 5-Step Framework for Employers

One question cost an HR director her job. Not a bad question in the abstract -- it sounded completely reasonable. But what the employee heard was "I don't believe you," what opposing counsel heard was bias, and what it cost the company was a settlement they should have never paid. Welcome to Beyond the Handbook, Episode 5. This week, Chris Scott -- partner and Employment Law Section Chair at Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, LLP -- breaks down how employers should conduct workplace investigations. Not the version in your handbook. The version that actually holds up when it matters. What's Covered: • When a situation requires a formal investigation (and when it doesn't) • Who should run the investigation -- and the three qualities every investigator needs • The five interview questions that reveal truth, motive, and credibility • How to assess credibility fairly when witness accounts conflict • Why you should always interview the accused last • The five most common investigation mistakes -- and how to avoid each one • When to bring in outside counsel • Separation agreement and documentation best practices Chapter Markers: 00:00 Open 00:35 Disclaimer 00:50 Why Investigations Go Sideways 02:45 When to Investigate 05:30 Who Should Run the Investigation 08:00 The 5-Step Process 12:00 The Mistakes That Cost You 15:00 Conclusion + Next Episode Preview Download our one-page Workplace Investigation Checklist -- the 5-step framework, the interview questions, and the mistake list -- by contacting Chris Scott or anyone at Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, LLP. About the Host: Chris Scott is a partner at Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, LLP, where he chairs the Employment Law Section. He defends employers in federal and state court, serves as a certified federal mediator, and has been recognized as a Pennsylvania Super Lawyers Rising Star. Beyond the Handbook is his take on what actually happens after policy meets practice told from the defense side, with the occasional bad joke. Next Episode: Employee Separations -- how to handle a termination from decision through exit, without turning a Tuesday afternoon into a multi-year legal event. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice. Listening does not create an attorney-client relationship. Consult qualified counsel for advice specific to your situation. #EmploymentLaw #WorkplaceInvestigations #HumanResources #HRCompliance #BeyondTheHandbook