Are you an Edmonton Alberta business in need of an investigation? Many businesses throughout Alberta and British Columbia conduct investigations for a wide range of reasons. From responding to cybersecurity breaches to uncovering accounting fraud, investigators help collect and uncover data. Business leaders need complex data that’s collected confidentially to make informed decisions to protect the assets of the company. This is done through reliable information gathered by highly-trained investigators.

When a business investigation is needed, there is usually no time to waste. There can also be little room for error. Business leaders need the investigation to be not only comprehensive in its discovery, but confidentiality is also a must. If an investigation fails to follow through with any aspect of the project, or parts of the incident have not been uncovered, this can lead to adverse consequences for the company’s future.

Reasons for a Business Investigation in Alberta or British Columbia

There are many aspects to any business that may call for an investigation. But for the most part, an investigative firm can perform multiple examinations such as the following scenarios:

  • Research Investigation
    An investigator may collect information on companies their client does business with. This can relate to investments, private equity, venture capital, joint ventures, mergers, and acquisitions. They can also conduct employee background checks.
  • Corruption Investigation
    The investigator can perform research to uncover industrial espionage, corporate fraud, bribery, and illegal foreign exchange.
  • Financial Investigation
    In these types of analyses, the investigator can discover white-collar crime, fraud, money laundering, and embezzlement.
  • Undercover Investigation
    The investigator may appear to blend in with the staff to uncover any wrongdoing in the company. This can include covert surveillance and employee misconduct such as harassment, substance abuse, or theft from the company.
  • E-Discovery and Electronic Investigation
    Using digital forensics and electronic investigation techniques an investigator can collect information that is stored electronically to gather evidence. These same techniques may also be used to restore lost data.

What to Look for in a Business Investigator in Alberta or British Columbia

There are many situations in business where it may be necessary to hire an investigator. The last thing you need to invest time and capital in a firm and not get the desired results. Here are a few qualities to look for in a business investigator.

Professionalism: This is required in any business environment. The agent and their company must have built a reputation based on credibility in the field.

Integrity: This is one of the most important aspects of a business investigator. They may have to deal with criminal cases that could affect people’s lives. They must be discreet about your company and never use the information in ways that are inappropriate.

Persistence: Sometimes cases involving crime and fraud can be frustrating. Most criminal cases require proactive work that continues tirelessly until the end of the case.

Problem-solving: The investigator must possess analytical skills and the ability to look at different scenarios logically. They must also be able to work under pressure and meet deadlines in a timely manner.

Reliability: When an agent is working for a company they have to be able to provide the assurance that they will help solve their problem. The client should have complete confidence in the agent’s ability to investigate the case and uncover the issue at hand. They should also keep the client up to date on their progress and all relevant developments.

What is the Process of Choosing and Hiring a Business Investigator?

Investigators are hired by companies that need assistance with looking into potential business partners, human resource background checks, and other corporate threats. Here are a few points to keep in mind when considering working with a business investigator.

Request to meet them in person: Never hire an investigator without meeting them in person. Meeting them face to face will assure you that the company you’re hiring is professional, trustworthy, and competent. Remember, this firm may have to testify for you in court one day. You want to make sure the person representing you is of a reputable background.

Licence and insurance: Ask to see their licence and make sure that it’s valid in your province. Also, see that they are properly insured should anything happen to the agent during their tenure with your company.

Qualifications and experience: Check their website to see what type of work they’ve performed. If you have legal issues, you’ll want an investigator who is well versed in civil and criminal cases. Ask how long they’ve been in business, and how many years of experience the investigator has working with companies like yours. You’ll also want to find out if it will just be the one investigator or other agents as well.

Testimonials, references, and work samples: You need to perform your due diligence before hiring an investigator. Run a query on the agency and the individual. Have them give you at least three previous clients where they’ve performed their services. Because investigation involves discretion, you won’t find the typical online reviews like you would for other types of services. However, it’s still essential to request references prior to hiring.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hiring a Business Investigator in Alberta or British Columbia

How are business investigators trained?

Business investigators go through a rigorous training process and can come from a number of backgrounds. Many investigators come from public and private law enforcement or accounting backgrounds. But, some also come from a financial, insurance, or legal background. Most have acquired educational experience in the field before working as business investigators.

What does a typical business investigation look like?

Normally a business investigation proceeds as follows:

  1. An issue is discovered or defined and an investigation is ordered.
  2. The investigator makes observations and gathers the necessary data.
  3. Based on research and observations they will make predictions about what’s happening in the company based on the facts they’ve gathered.
  4. The data is analysed and conclusions are drawn.
  5. The necessary action is executed to bring the problem to its resolution.

How can a business investigation help a business?

A business investigation is a thorough analysis. It can be completed internally, but often benefits from the objectivity an investigative agency can provide. Investigations can reveal potential risks or fraud. Most investigations include both preventive and countermeasure activities. By conducting an investigation using an outside firm, the business can minimise loss and prevent fraud from occurring in the future.

Choose a Comprehensive Investigative Firm for Your Edmonton, Alberta Business

If you’re the owner of a public or private business, there may be times when you have issues that can only be addressed by a thorough investigation. During these times, your best option is to rely on professionals that have the experience and expertise you need to get the solutions you deserve. At CE Security and Consulting, we pride ourselves on delivering solutions to our clients when it comes to business investigations and security. To learn more about what we can do for your business, reach out to us today at 1-855-278-4806 or visit our website.