ABSTRACT
Every competent investigator knows the importance of communication skills, especially during interviews with a prospective or existing client, witness, suspect, or other party. At a minimum, an interview is a conversation designed to garner facts and clarify issues, promote the interchange of ideas and information and develop a positive relationship between the interrogator and the interviewee. From the outset, the interviewee must feel welcome and respected: this assures a positive interview environment. Before the initial interview commences, the interviewer need to compile and collect certain documentation to assure the integrity and effectiveness of the interview. Before conducting the interview, the investigator wisely should lay out the purpose or objectives of the process. The success of the initial interview process and subsequent interaction between the client and the investigator is a recurring concern of security management and administrative personnel.
