loader
Page is loading...
Print Logo Logo
The Witness Files: 10 People We Keep Seeing in Workplace Investigations (cont.)

The Witness Files: 10 People We Keep Seeing in Workplace Investigations (cont.)

Bill Nolan

William A. Nolan

Partner
Columbus Managing Partner

I have written here and here on BT Currents about the fact that it seems there are a handful of types of characters – among the complainants, the accused and the innocent bystanders alike – who seem to present themselves over and over again in workplace investigations, and a series I have written about these characters and key strategies for dealing with each of them. The 10 characters I have identified are the following:

Complainants

  • Poor performer
  • Questionable complainant
  • Parting shot complainant
  • Counseled for performance

The Accused

  • Clueless yet compliant
  • Master manipulator
  • High-risk harasser

Third-party Witnesses

  • Squeamish supervisor
  • Reluctant innocent bystander
  • Gossipy witness

Recently I presented the second of two webinars presenting this series in that format. That webinar may be accessed at no charge here, and the first webinar may be accessed at no charge here. They review all of these recurring characters, with accompanying PowerPoint slides as well as audience questions. It is a helpful resource for any reader who may be investigating harassment or other workplace charges.


RELATED ARTICLES

12 Days of Handbook Updates: Harassment Policies

December 19, 2023 | Labor and Employment, EEOC, Employment Discrimination, Federal Laws and Legislation

Do You Now Have to Tolerate Profane or Abusive Outbursts by Employees at Work?

May 16, 2023 | Labor and Employment, National Labor Relations Board

Leverage the 'Honest Belief Rule' When Conducting Workplace Investigations

June 10, 2022 | Employment Discrimination, Labor and Employment

Subscribe

Do you want to receive more valuable insights directly in your inbox? Visit our subscription center and let us know what you're interested in learning more about.

View Subscription Center
Trending Connect
We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience. By clicking any link on this page you are giving your consent for us to use cookies.