Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Database Research • Debugging • Surveillance

Investigative Report

Term from Private Investigation industry explained for recruiters

An Investigative Report is a detailed document that private investigators create after completing their research and fieldwork. It's like a professional storytelling of facts, where investigators explain what they found during their investigation in a clear, organized way. These reports can cover various types of cases, from background checks to surveillance findings. Think of it as the final product that clients receive, similar to how a lawyer presents a case file or a doctor provides medical records. Different companies might call it a "Case Report," "Investigation Summary," or "Detective's Findings," but they all serve the same purpose - presenting investigation results professionally.

Examples in Resumes

Prepared over 200 Investigative Reports for corporate clients

Authored detailed Investigation Reports for insurance fraud cases

Created comprehensive Detective Reports and Investigative Summaries for legal teams

Typical job title: "Private Investigators"

Also try searching for:

Private Detective Investigation Specialist Surveillance Investigator Background Investigation Specialist Insurance Fraud Investigator Corporate Investigator Field Investigator

Where to Find Private Investigators

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you ensure your investigative reports will stand up in court?

Expected Answer: A senior investigator should explain the importance of detailed documentation, maintaining chain of custody, following legal guidelines, and using proper formatting and language that meets legal standards. They should mention experience testifying in court and working with attorneys.

Q: How do you handle complex investigations with multiple subjects and sources?

Expected Answer: Should discuss organization methods, case management systems, maintaining separate but connected files, and creating clear narratives that connect different aspects of the investigation while maintaining clarity for the client.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What elements do you include in a standard investigative report?

Expected Answer: Should mention key components like executive summary, methodology, findings, evidence list, witness statements, and recommendations. Should emphasize importance of clear writing and proper documentation.

Q: How do you verify the accuracy of information in your reports?

Expected Answer: Should explain cross-referencing methods, importance of multiple sources, fact-checking procedures, and documentation of information sources.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What's the difference between facts and conclusions in an investigative report?

Expected Answer: Should explain that facts are verified pieces of information, while conclusions are professional opinions based on those facts. Should understand the importance of keeping these separate in reports.

Q: How do you organize your notes for writing an investigative report?

Expected Answer: Should describe basic note-taking methods, chronological organization, evidence tracking, and the process of converting field notes into formal report language.