What is the first step in a personnel investigation?

The first step in a personnel investigation is to interview the complainant. This is crucial because the complainant provides the initial account of the incident or issue at hand. Their perspective offers essential context and details that inform the direction of the investigation. Understanding the specifics of the complaint directly from the source helps establish facts that need to be verified through further investigation.

Interviewing the complainant first lays the foundation for the rest of the investigative process, determining what evidence needs to be gathered and which individuals should be interviewed next. It sets the stage for a thorough understanding of the situation, allowing investigators to ask relevant follow-up questions and guide the inquiry effectively. This step ensures that the investigation is focused and comprehensive, addressing the concerns raised by the complainant right from the start.