Investigator

Many different investigations revolve around criminal activity and involve finding the answer to a very important question like "who done it?" or "what happened?". While procedurals on tv or movies focus on police officers or lawyers, corporate investigations are just as important to business. Whether it is internal fraud, sexual harassment, data breaches, or environmental spills, corporations need professionals to investigate all sorts of issues that may come up in the normal course of business or are alleged to have happened.

Career Overview and Duties

Investigators research and analyze information to uncover facts. They commonly conduct interviews, examine documents, and collect evidence. Many investigators specialize in a particular area, such as fraud, insurance, or corporate investigations. Other common types of investigations include accident investigations, background checks, and private investigations.

Investigators play an important role in ensuring that laws and regulations are followed and that businesses operate ethically. They also help to protect people from fraud, abuse, and other crimes.

Skills and Knowledge

Investigators typically need a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, criminology, or a related field. Some employers may also require investigators to have a master's degree or law degree. Additionally, investigators must have strong analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Investigators also need to be able to work independently and as part of a team. They must be able to manage their time effectively and meet deadlines.

Career Advancement

Investigators can advance their careers by gaining experience and developing their skills. They may also choose to specialize in a particular area of investigation. With experience, investigators can move into management positions or become consultants.

Transferable Skills

The skills that investigators develop can be transferred to other careers, such as law enforcement, risk management, and human resources. Investigators can also use their skills to start their own businesses.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

The day-to-day responsibilities of an investigator can vary depending on their area of specialization. However, some common tasks include:

• Conducting interviews
• Examining documents
• Collecting evidence
• Preparing reports
• Testifying in court

Challenges

Investigators face a number of challenges in their work. These challenges can include:

• Dealing with difficult people
• Working under pressure
• Managing large amounts of information
• Maintaining confidentiality
• Testifying in court

Projects

Investigators may work on a variety of projects, such as:

• Fraud investigations
• Insurance investigations
• Corporate investigations
• Accident investigations
• Background checks
• Private investigations

Personal Growth

Investigators can experience a great deal of personal growth in their careers. They can learn about different cultures, meet new people, and develop their critical thinking skills. Investigators can also make a real difference in the world by helping to solve crimes and protect people.

Personality Traits and Interests

Investigators typically have the following personality traits and interests:

• Strong analytical skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to manage time effectively and meet deadlines
• Interest in criminal justice, criminology, or a related field

Self-Guided Projects

There are a number of self-guided projects that students can complete to better prepare themselves for a career as an investigator. These projects can include:

• Reading books and articles about criminal justice, criminology, and investigation
• Conducting mock interviews
• Participating in role-playing exercises
• Completing online courses

Online Courses

Online courses can be a great way to learn about investigation and develop the skills needed for a successful career in this field. Online courses can provide students with the flexibility to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. Additionally, online courses can provide students with access to a wider range of learning resources than they would be able to find in a traditional classroom setting.

There are a number of online courses available that can help students learn about investigation. These courses can provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to conduct interviews, examine documents, collect evidence, and prepare reports. Additionally, these courses can help students develop their critical thinking skills and their ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Online courses can be a valuable tool for students who are interested in pursuing a career as an investigator. However, it is important to note that online courses alone are not enough to prepare students for this career. Students who are serious about pursuing a career as an investigator should also consider pursuing a degree in criminal justice, criminology, or a related field.