Take Accurate Notes

Accurate note taking in a harassment investigation is critical. However, the investigator must be able to establish a rapport with the witness and assess their credibility. The investigator should assess the best method for taking notes while maintaining this rapport.

Focus notetaking on objective facts during the interview. This ensures your focus is on determining what actually happened and will help you reach a reasoned conclusion. Avoid including your interpretations, beliefs, feelings, frustrations, opinions or assumptions about what you hear or see during the interview. However, you may note and describe behaviors if it is part of an assessment about credibility. If you have a question about an