How do you know if someone is lying during an investigation? The short answer: you don’t, not with certainty anyway. However, witnesses will often provide some very obvious clues when they are uncomfortable with your line of questioning. And when this is the case, there’s a good chance you might not be getting the whole story. If your witness does any of the following, it’s a signal that you probably need to dig a little deeper:
- 1. Doesn’t answer the question directly. “Did you go to the bar last night?” “I had to work late.”
- 2. Uses the phrase “I don’t recall.” No one talks like that in real life.
- 3. Answers your question with a question, such as “Why would I do that?”
- 4. Provides a non-verbal response, like shaking or nodding the head, instead of saying yes or no.
- 5. Uses ambiguous language, such as “maybe,” “sort of,” or “not really.”
- 6. Makes comments such as “I swear,” “To tell the truth,” “As God as my witness.”
- 7. Hesitates before answering the question.
- 8. Fails to provide details. Truthful people will provide details, many of which may not be relevant.
- 9. Uses the passive voice. “The door was left open” versus “I left the door open.”
- 10. Gets overly defensive or angry.
- 11. Wants to quickly move away from certain topics.
- 12. Tries to put distance or an object between himself and you.
- 13. Crosses arms and/or clenches fists.
- 14. Sits extremely still.
- 15. Starts fidgeting.
- 16. Starts sweating.
- 17. Avoids eye contact.
You should take specific notes about any of these behaviors. Write down the question asked and the witness’ specific response, both verbal and physical. If the witness makes a telling statement, put it in quotes. This information will help you make credibility determinations, especially in he-said/she-said situations. More on that next time.
Want more training on how to conduct internal investigations? Drop me a note. I’d love to work with you!