Investigative Vs Ordinary Conversations
What are the Differences between Investigative vs Ordinary Conversations?
The key to successful investigations is knowing the differences between ordinary and investigative conversations. Here are three:
1. Goal focused vs Drifter conversations
Investigative conversations don't drift, they are goal focused.
Ordinary conversations drift, touching on a mix of topics casually. This relaxed style is great for a general exchange of thoughts but doesn't work when you need to get specific facts.
Investigative conversations stay on point, focusing on gathering exact information. They're organised in a way that each question leads to a clear fact, avoiding the usual wanderings of a normal chat.
2. Answers to questions vs Responses to questions
Investigators notice when people merely respond to their questions without answering them.
When asked a question, giving an answer means people offer clear information that satisfies the requirements of the question.
But sometimes, people respond without actually answering.
When digging for facts, it's important to NOTICE when someone is giving you the real answer or just talking around it. If you notice your question has not been answered, ask it again!
3. Lying vs Evasion
There's a fine line between lying and evasion.
Lying is dishonestly making a statement that does not correspond to the facts.
Evasion is telling a distorted narrative: it has elements of truth but it leaves out certain facts or distorts the time-line.
Evasion is more common than lying.
Evading the truth is when they're not direct, but they don't lie outright.
Both can be tricky in investigative talks. If someone isn't telling the truth, you can show them evidence that says otherwise.
But if they evade the truth, you might need to ask more pointed questions.
Summary
Recognising these distinctions is important for effective investigations.
- We must talk with a clear purpose.
- We must discover answers.
- We must stop evasions.
Blogs by Email
Do you want to receive an email whenever we post a new blog? The blogs contain article 5-10 minutes long - ideal for reading during your coffee break!
Further Reading in Communication - Clear Communication
-
How to be a good conversationalist
Conversational skills are essential both in business and socially, so here are some top tips to becoming a good conversationalist.
Read Article > -
Improving Communication in the Workplace
Managers are the key to successful communication and motivation in the workplace. They must ensure they give proper praise and appreciation, when due. And,if criticism is necessary, then it is vital that this is delivered in a constructive manner.
Read Article > -
Four Steps to Improve Your Communication Skills
The ability to communicate well is a vital life skill. In business, being able to communicate your goals to others, clearly, logically and specifically is vital if you are are to succeed.
Read Article > -
How Language Causes Confusion
Ambiguity in business can be damaging both for your reputation and your finances. To avoid potential confusion when communicating with colleagues and customers, take a look at these five ways where ambiguous language should be avoided.
Read Article > -
Communication Skills Training (Advanced)
Recognising arbitrary statements Communication is a vital skill to master. You can define the term "Communication" as: "the transfer of information, from one mind to another." And you could define "excellent communication" as: The accurate transfer of information, from one mind to another, without error, omission, distortion". Excellent communication is no...
Read Article >
Looking for Communication Skills Training?
If you're looking to develop your Clear Communication Skills, you may find this Communication Skills Training Course beneficial:
Open Training Course Pricing and Availability
Next Open Course Starts in 11 days, London - Central, places available