What questions do I ask during a harassment investigation?

When conducting a workplace investigation, it is important to interview all parties involved to paint a full picture of the incident.

Questions to Ask the Complainant:

1. Who, what, when, where, and how: Who committed the alleged harassment? What exactly occurred or was said? When did it occur and is it still ongoing? Where did it occur? How often did it occur? How did it affect you?
2. How did you react? What response did you make when the incident(s) occurred or afterwards?
3. How did the harassment affect you? Has your job been affected in any way?
4. Are there any persons who have relevant information? Was anyone present when the alleged harassment occurred? Did you tell anyone about it? Did anyone see you immediately after episodes of alleged harassment?
5. Did the person who harassed you harass anyone else? Do you know whether anyone complained about harassment by that person?
6. Are there any notes, physical evidence, or other documentation regarding the incident(s)?
7. How would you like to see the situation resolved?
8. Do you know of any other relevant information?

1. What is your response to the allegations?
2. If the harasser claims that the allegations are false, ask why the complainant might lie.
3. Are there any persons who have relevant information?
4. Are there any notes, physical evidence, or other documentation regarding the incident(s)?
5. Do you know of any other relevant information?

1. What did you see or hear? When did this occur? Describe the alleged harasser’s behavior toward the complainant and toward others in the workplace.
2. What did the complainant tell you? When did s/he tell you this?
3. Do you know of any other relevant information?
4. Are there other persons who have relevant information?