STEP SIX: Evaluation Investigative interviewing recognises the fact that interviewing is a practical exercise, requiring a variety of skills, first and foremost, communication skills. An essential part of skills training is evaluation and feedback. EVALUATION IS WHERE THE INTERVIEWER (AND SUPERVISOR/SENIOR OFFICER): • Examines whether the aims and objectives of the interview have been achieved • Reviews the investigation in light of the information obtained during the interview • Reflects upon how well the interview was conducted, identify the positives (such as good flow of information), and consider future improvements If the interview is evaluated by a supervisor, senior officer or colleague, make sure that the interviewing officers are given the opportunity to comment on their own performance, before the evaluator gives their points, starting with what was positive, moving on to what could be improved next time. With regard to evaluation it is worth noting that research has found that officers are generally poor at evaluating their own interviewing abilities. Hence, conducting the evaluation with a colleague is useful. The colleague can be a partner, supervisor or senior officer. The key is to review the interview with someone who is honest and frank, and treats the assessment confidentially. If the interview was recorded, this is a good tool to help in evaluations. SELF- ASSESSMENT CHECKLIST  1. What are the key benefits of using an investigative interviewing technique? 2. What are the six steps for the investigative interviewing model? And what is the purpose of each step? 3. When initiating contact and establishing certain ground rules, what should the interviewee be told? 4. What is an appropriate response should a suspect invoke the right to silence? 5. What is TED’S PIE? 6. What should be avoided during the process of obtaining a first free account? 7. What is the purpose of the strategic disclosure of evidence, and what are the four key stages? 8. Why is closure of the interview important? And how should it be handled? 9. What can be gained from carrying out an evaluation of the interview? 10. What are the advantages of recording interviews? CTI Training Tools 1/2017: Investigative Interviewing for Criminal Cases 11/12