Investigations are rarely straightforward. From elusive evidence and silent respondents to emotionally charged interviews and classic “word vs. word” dilemmas, conducting a fair and thorough investigation is a true professional craft.

In our latest masterclass, The Investigation Company by The TCM Group pulled back the curtain on the tough, real-life decisions investigators face every day. With a packed audience of professionals, we explored the complexities that often derail even the most experienced investigators, and how to stay confident, curious, and compliant through it all.

What we covered

This deep-dive session was packed with practical advice, expert insights, and real-life case examples. Together, we tackled key themes, including:

• An overview of our investigations process: Including our FAIR Model
• Spotting and handling missing or withheld information: We shared strategies for identifying when crucial evidence might be absent — and how to manage these gaps without jeopardising fairness.
• Using trauma-informed approaches without biasing outcomes: Trauma is increasingly a factor in workplace disputes. We discussed how investigators can create a psychologically safe space while maintaining objectivity.
• Documenting and explaining decisions on the balance of probability: It’s not just what you conclude, but how you document it. We examined best practices for recording rationale clearly and defensibly.
• Upholding fairness, transparency, and empathy: Even the toughest investigations must be underpinned by these pillars, and we offered techniques to ensure investigators stay grounded in these principles.

We also highlighted the vital role that workplace coaching can play in the investigation process. Coaching helps participants feel more psychologically safe, become more self-aware, and can even prevent future investigations by promoting healthier workplace dynamics.

Guest speaker: Gemma Bromfield

We were thrilled to be joined by Gemma Bromfield, an expert investigator with years of hands-on experience navigating complex and sensitive cases. Gemma’s insights on managing reluctant witnesses and dealing with trauma-related challenges added invaluable depth to the conversation. Many of you showed an interest in the evidence map that Gemma discussed, you can find an example here: Standard Evidence Map Template

Thank you also to everyone who engaged in the conversation, it was great to so many of you joining us and sharing your thoughts and experiences.

Watch the recording

Key takeaways

• Complex investigations demand both a technical and human approach.
• Investigators must remain curious, objective, and empathetic, even when emotions run high.
• Documenting decisions carefully is critical for defensibility.
• Coaching can complement investigations by fostering long-term, positive cultural change.

Whether you’re an experienced investigator or stepping into the role for the first time, mastering these elements is essential to protecting your organisation, and your people.

Ready to deepen your investigation expertise?

If you found the masterclass thought-provoking, why not take the next step? Our three-day, CPD-accredited Advanced Investigation Skills Course builds on everything we discussed, providing deeper learning and practical application to help you lead investigations with even greater confidence.

The course can be delivered online or onsite, contact us for the upcoming open access course dates or to arrange for a course in-house for a group at your organisation. We are happy to tailor the training programme to your requirements.

Interested in more webinars and events? Check out the next ones, we regularly share insights on a range of topics across mediation, investigations, HR, workplace coaching, leadership and more.