Undertaking Effective Investigations A Guide for National Human Rights Institutions 5. HOW SHOULD THE INTERVIEWERS PRESENT THEMSELVES? Dress It is important that investigators present themselves in a professional manner. Dress appropriately and in a manner that respects the interviewee and the environment. It would not be appropriate to walk into an interview with a senior official wearing a T-shirt. On the other hand, it may not be respectful or helpful to walk into an agricultural-based community wearing formal attire. Interruptions Interruptions can destroy the rhythm of an interview, particularly when it is in full flow. Whatever is necessary should be done to minimize interruptions, including turning off mobile phones for the duration of the interview. Not only is responding to a call or checking e-mail during an interview rude, it also sends a message to the interviewee about their relative importance. Who sits where? There are various theories about whether the interviewee should face any window in the room, whether there should be a clock visible and so on. In practice, seating arrangements will depend on both the interviewee (how easily distracted they are) and the interviewer (on how proficient they are at keeping the interviewee focused on providing full responses to the questions being asked). The interviewer should consider what will make the interviewee more comfortable. Sitting face-to-face across a desk? Sitting side-by-side? Having a couch in the room? It will depend on the interviewee and on the circumstances. 6. PHYSICAL SET-UP AND EQUIPMENT If the interview is being conducted at a location where there is some control over the physical set-up of the room – such as the NHRI’s office or a hotel boardroom – it may be possible to arrange the room to the investigator’s advantage. Safety should always be the main consideration. In cases where safety may be an issue, the investigator should sit closest to the door and make sure there are no objects within reach that could be used as weapons. The equipment to be used, if possible, should include: • two digital voice recorders (DVR), in case one breaks down or malfunctions • batteries • paper and pens, for notes and diagrams • a camera to take photographs, particularly to record injury • water and glasses. 7. HOW LONG SHOULD THE INTERVIEW TAKE? Part of preparing for an interview involves estimating how long it is likely to take. Of course, there will be many circumstances where the interviewer will not be sure. However, it may be possible to make an informed guess based on knowledge of the case, past experience and the relative importance of the witness. Make sure enough time has been set aside for the interview. Take as long as is needed, particularly with key witnesses, although that can sometimes be difficult with interviewees who have limited time available. 80