How long does a typical HR investigation take?

Asked by: Cleve Gottlieb III  |  Last update: January 3, 2026
Score: 4.7/5 (63 votes)

How long does an HR investigation take? Each investigation will be unique. There is no set HR investigation timeline, and it can take anywhere from a few days to months. However, the investigation should start immediately after HR has become aware of the concern to ensure relevant evidence and facts will not be lost.

How long should an HR investigation take?

The length of time this takes to complete will completely depend on the HR department, the company and the nature of the complaint. On average, it will take between 3 days and a week for HR to investigate a complaint, however, this could be longer or shorter depending on these factors.

What not to say in an HR investigation?

I'm not sure, but…” Speculating or making assumptions can muddle the facts, leading to misunderstandings. Stick to what you know. “It's always been done this way”: This defense can imply resistance to change or justify inappropriate behavior based on tradition, which doesn't hold up under scrutiny.

What happens during an HR investigation?

During investigation interviews, the complainant, respondent, and witnesses will have the opportunity to present information and material related to the situation. The investigator will ask questions related to the complaint, listen, and take notes.

How long does HR usually take to respond?

The average response time after submitting a resume for a small to midsize company is under a week, while a large company may take between 1 and 4 weeks or even more.

HR Basics: Workplace Investigations

45 related questions found

How long does HR take to make a decision?

In most cases, you can expect to hear back from a hiring manager within one or two weeks after your interview, and in some cases, you'll only hear back if they decide to move on to a next round or if they're interested in making a job offer.

When to assume you didn't get the job?

They normally reach out to you via email or phone within 10 to 14 days from the interview day. If you don't hear back after the job interview during the first two weeks, it's time to explore other job opportunities. If no one responds to your follow-ups, it's likely you haven't been successful.

Do HR investigations lead to termination?

In most HR investigations, no serious disciplinary actions are called for in the end. It generally takes a lot of solid evidence to lead to something like an immediate termination or demotion, for example.

How long should investigations take?

For example, a simple case might only take a day to gather enough information. A more complicated case could take several weeks. Your organisation might have timescales for investigations written in their policy. Otherwise, the employer or person investigating should set a reasonable timescale and tell the employee.

How to survive HR investigation?

Law Office of Arkady Itkin
  1. This is an interview; not a conversation. ...
  2. Resist the urge to exaggerate or speculate. ...
  3. Never show any temper during your interview. ...
  4. If you don't know something or don't remember something, it's perfectly fine to say just that. ...
  5. If you don't understand a question, ask to clarify.

What words does HR not want to hear?

General negative words – These include words such as words such as “no”, “can't”, “couldn't”, “didn't”. It really is true that hiring managers do not want to hear the word can't.

Does HR have to tell you if you are being investigated?

Right to Be Informed: Employees have the right to be informed about the nature of the investigation, including the allegations or complaints being made against them and the purpose of the investigation.

What can HR legally say about you?

Employers cannot make statements that are malicious in any way. They cannot provide unsolicited information about you or your job performance. They cannot make statements about your beliefs, such as politics or religion, or make statements about your union activities.

How long does a typical investigation take?

Most investigations take a few months - that is, generally speaking. If the evidence is particularly strong, police may be ready to make an arrest within days of the initial report coming in.

What happens when someone files an HR complaint against you?

HR investigations are used to collect evidence and facts surrounding the complaint, which are then used to determine if any corrective actions are necessary. They can also be used to determine if further action such as disciplinary actions, up to and including termination, are necessary.

What makes a strong retaliation case?

What Makes a Strong Retaliation Case? A strong retaliation case has clear evidence linking an employee's protected action, like reporting harassment, to an adverse reaction from the employer. Demonstrating this connection can lead to a successful retaliation settlement.

How do you know when an investigation is over?

An investigation will continue until authorities have gathered enough evidence to proceed forward with the case or decide that there isn't enough evidence on which to proceed. This might involve waiting for the turnaround of forensic evidence or locating and interviewing witnesses, victims, or additional suspects.

What questions to ask in an HR investigation?

HR Investigation Questions for the Reporter
  • Who committed the alleged behavior?
  • What happened?
  • When did this occur? ...
  • Where did this happen?
  • Did you let the accused know that you were upset by this?
  • Who else may have seen or heard this as a witness?
  • Have you reported or discussed this with anyone?

How to end an investigation meeting?

A good closing statement for a conclusion could be to thank both the accused and the complainant for their participation, remind them of the importance of confidentiality, and assure them that the investigation was conducted fairly and impartially.

Does HR usually do the firing?

When it comes to terminating employees, HR can help shape the process, guide the conversation and minimize potential damage to both company and employee. But it can't assume the responsibility nor make the task pleasant for anyone involved.

What not to say in an HR investigation sample?

Stick to the facts: Avoid speculation or assumptions and focus on providing factual information based on your knowledge and experience. Be respectful and professional: Maintain a professional demeanour during the investigation, and avoid becoming defensive or confrontational, even if you disagree with the allegations.

Should I resign during an HR investigation?

If you don't have positive expectations, resigning is sometimes the best way to move forward. A drawback of resigning is that the public may presume your guilt if you resign during a prominent investigation. Resigning is also usually a bad financial move unless you agree to severance in writing with your employer.

What interviewers say that lets you know you won't get an offer?

We're going to move forward with other candidates whose qualifications are an even stronger match. Another variant: "Although you are qualified for the position, we've decided to select another candidate." This is a nice way of telling you that you're not the right person for the job.

How do you know if you didn't get hired?

Signs The Job Isn't Yours

If a week goes by after the interview with no contact, it's often not a good sign. They may have decided you're not the right fit or found another strong candidate and don't need to keep interviewing.

Is 2 weeks too long to hear back from an interview?

The hiring manager hasn't concluded the process

It may be difficult for the hiring manager to decide on a candidate. If you haven't heard in two weeks, it's possible they haven't reached the final stage.