Workplace investigations are not simply about ticking compliance boxes. At their heart, they deal with people — individuals with emotions, anxieties, and expectations. Recognizing and addressing this human element is fundamental for an effective and successful investigation.
It’s essential to comply with legislation surrounding workplace investigations. However, focusing solely on compliance can inadvertently sideline the human aspect of the process. Investigations inherently involve people and their emotions, and how we manage these emotions can significantly impact the investigation's outcome.
Striking a balance between the requirements of a legal and thorough investigation and the emotional toll it can take on those involved isn't always straightforward. The risk of a legal misstep may push HR professionals to prioritize compliance over empathetic engagement. However, alienating individuals involved in the investigation can undermine the process's credibility and effectiveness.
Research by TalentSmart found that emotional intelligence is the strongest predictor of workplace performance, responsible for 58% of job success. In the context of workplace investigations, this translates to the ability of investigators to understand and manage the emotions of the parties involved.
Empathy can help individuals feel heard and respected, reducing feelings of hostility and enhancing cooperation. As organizational consultant, Peter Drucker, once said, "The most important thing in communication is hearing what isn't said."
The tension between the need for an unbiased, thorough investigation and the need to acknowledge and address the emotional impacts on the people involved is a significant challenge. One solution is adopting an emotionally intelligent approach to investigations. This means active listening, empathetic engagement, and clear, compassionate communication about the investigation process and outcomes.
Training investigators in emotional intelligence can equip them with the skills to navigate the emotional landscape of an investigation effectively. Additionally, providing support to all parties, such as counselling or stress management resources, can help mitigate the investigation's emotional toll.
Handling the human element well in investigations can contribute to overall workplace improvement. It fosters a culture of respect and empathy, improving employee morale, job satisfaction, and fostering loyalty. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, a psychologically healthy work environment can reduce turnover by up to 25% and increase productivity by 12%.
While compliance is undoubtedly vital in workplace investigations, looking beyond the checkboxes to the human beings involved can profoundly impact the process and its outcomes. By acknowledging and addressing the emotional implications of investigations, we can foster healthier, more productive workplaces. After all, organizations are not just about policies and procedures; they are about people.