The Real Deal on Workplace Investigations

Hey Besties!

We made it…to Wednesday at least! It’s been one of those weeks, hasn’t it? Well, get ready, because this week’s episode will have you checking what’s in everyone’s coffee cup at the office. Leigh’s got a workplace investigation story that included lab testing.

In This Episode:

• Intro Story: You’re leading an investigation into what seemed like just another workplace issue… and then you discover the CEO’s been sneaking something a little stronger than coffee (things got tough when Leigh had to investigate a CEO’s secret habit).

• Corporate Cringe Speak: Ever heard someone tell you to “get your ducks in a row”? (Do you envision duck duck goose when they say that?)

• Hot Topic: Let’s talk about investigations at work. It’s a tricky business - what do you even call a complaint? Should we be saying “concern,” “issue,” or something else entirely? And once you get that complaint, how should you respond? Whether it’s a minor dispute or something serious, knowing how to handle investigations can make or break your role in HR (we give tips to help you make it).

• Questions & Comments: As always, we’re taking it from unexpected revelations to valuable lessons including our lessons learned in investigations and the language we use in them (like, actual language, not 4-letter words)!

Discussion Guide - For your next HR Besties meetup or team huddle:

• Ducks in a Row: Do we think this phrase is cringy or not?

• “Upward” Issues: What if you hear a complaint about someone higher in the organizational ladder? Do our team members feel like they can say something? How can we manage tough investigations when the stakes feel high?

• Investigations at Work: What’s the most important thing you’ve learned about handling investigations? How should we handle the language around “complaints” or “concerns,” and does it set the right tone for resolution?

Hit the link below to listen. If you love this episode as much as we loved making it, drop us a rating and review. Your feedback helps us keep the stories flowing!

Blue Skies, It’s Almost Friday!

XOXO, Your HR Besties

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