Event Details

Building Rapport in High-Stakes Investigations – How to Establish Trust and Elicit Truthful Disclosures from Reluctant or Deceptive Individuals

Presented by: Dave Thompson, President

Wicklander-Zulawski & Associates

In high-stakes investigations, the ability to build rapport isn't just a soft skill—it's a critical tool for uncovering the truth. Whether you're dealing with a reluctant witness, a deceptive suspect, or a vulnerable complainant, the foundation of a successful interview often comes down to one essential element: trust.

This webinar explores the science and strategy behind building rapport in investigative settings where the stakes are high and the margin for error is slim. We’ll break down the communication techniques that foster genuine connection, reduce resistance, and encourage cooperation—even in the most challenging interviews.

Participants will learn:

• How to identify and overcome barriers to trust

• Strategies to humanize the interaction without compromising investigative goals

• The psychology behind why people lie—and how rapport can shift that behavior

Drawing on research, field-tested approaches, and real-world examples, this session is designed for investigators, human resources and employee relations professions responsible for conducting interviews where truth matters.

This webinar not only builds practical interviewing skills—it strengthens HR professionals’ ability to lead with empathy, gather accurate information, and resolve complex issues ethically and effectively. Perfectly aligned with the SHRM/HRCI’s missions of empowering better workplaces through skilled, principled leadership.

1. Communication

• Listening, Verbal & Nonverbal Communication: The ability to build and maintain rapport is foundational to effective communication. This webinar enhances these skills by teaching participants how to foster open dialogue and interpret resistance or deception—critical in HR interviews, workplace investigations, and conflict resolution.

2. Relationship Management

• Building Trust & Credibility: Establishing rapport requires empathy, emotional intelligence, and consistency—all vital components of building relationships at work. This session focuses on leveraging adaptive behaviors to further increase trust through a transparent, respectful approach.

3. Critical Evaluation

• Decision-Making Based on Data and Cues: Eliciting reliable information allows HR professionals to assess credibility, analyze behavioral patterns, and make informed decisions during investigations or sensitive conversations.

4. Ethical Practice

• Upholding Integrity in Investigations: The focus on non-coercive, ethical communication methods supports the emphasis on maintaining professional integrity and procedural fairness, particularly during internal investigations or disciplinary matters.

This Meeting has been Submitted for SHRM & HRCI Credit