Courses

CFI Preparation Seminar

Studying for the CFI exam will hone your skills and expand your knowledge. Taking part in the Wicklander-Zulawski CFI Preparation Seminar and using WZ’s CFI Online Preparation Course (required to attend the seminar) will prepare you to pass the exam and jump-start your career.

Crimes Against Children: Non-Confrontational Investigative Interviewing Techniques

Interviewing suspects of child abuse are among the most difficult interview you will conduct.  The topic is complex and emotionally charged. This training course offers law enforcement and child protection agency professionals a broad range of modern methods and proprietary tools to conduct more effective interviews when investigating child assault cases.  

Criminal Level I - Investigative Interviewing Techniques

Equip investigators with proven methods to identify the truth when they attend the WZ Seminar on Investigative Interviewing Techniques.  Learn multiple, non-confrontational strategies based on the evidence, subject considerations, or type of interview.  Practical, researched-based concepts offer investigators flexibility in their approach to tackle any investigation.

Criminal Level II - Advanced Interviewing Techniques Workshop

D.O.A. Death Investigations

The course provides instruction in investigating and prosecuting death cases from the start of the investigation through evidence collection, autopsy, suspect interviews, press conferences, trial testimony and ultimately conviction. Learn state of the art techniques from an ex-Commander of a Major Crimes Task Force and a highly experienced Prosecutor and State's Attorney.

Lead Homicide Investigators

The course features interactive lectures and discussions of actual case histories, videos, and laws specific to homicide investigations. This comprehensive seminar provides instruction in conducting investigations and prosecuting death cases from the start of the investigation through evidence collection, suspect interviews, press conferences, trial testimony, and ultimately conviction. It is purposely designed to provide expert “in-the-field” instruction from the initial crime scene to a successful verdict.

Level I - Investigative Interviewing Techniques

The Level I - WZ Seminar on Investigative Interviewing Techniques is designed for organizations that desire to use a non-confrontational approach to resolve cases and obtain actionable intelligence. Seminar attendees will learn how to conduct interviews that lead to obtaining information from all parties involved while minimizing liability and maintaining the morale of the organization.

Seminar attendees will learn the importance of rapport in investigative interviews and how to apply these tools in difficult conversations. Instruction includes a comprehensive overview of a variety of non-confrontational interviewing techniques to obtain actionable information from witnesses, suspects, and victims.

This program incorporates proven successful techniques in the field to provide attendees with practical, research-based concepts to tackle any investigation. In addition, the multiple strategies taught offer the seminar participant a wide flexibility of approaches permitting them to alter strategies depending on the level of evidence, subject considerations, and type of interview.

Level I - Workplace Investigative Interviewing Strategies For HR/ER Professionals

The HRCI and SHRM Pre-Approved WZ Seminar on Workplace Investigative Interviewing Strategies for HR/ER Professionals is a powerful interactive two-day workshop open to ALL professionals who conduct inquiries into hostile work environment issues such as bullying, workplace discrimination, sexual harassment and many other integrity issues.  This training program is supported by videos of actual cases conducted by WZ investigators.

Level II - Practical Application Workshop

Wicklander-Zulawski & Associates has introduced an all-new Practical Applications Workshop for 2023.  This full-day program is designed to provide those who have completed the WZ Level I - Investigative Interviewing Techniques or WZ Level I - Workplace Investigative Interviewing Strategies within the last two (2) years to apply knowledge, skills, and abilities acquired to real-world practical problems.  It is comprised of a single, complex continuing case scenario.  Participants will conduct the exercise investigation from the initial complaint to its full conclusion and disposition.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS:

• Evaluate a complex real-world misconduct complaint from a fictitious business operation based on an actual case and company.  Use this analysis to create an interview strategy for the parties involved in the allegation and choose the appropriate interview method.

• Use rapport-based interpersonal communications skills to develop an interview approach that is conversational in nature and non-accusatory.  Then share ideas and notions about the power of various rapport options.

• Create properly structured, effective empathy statements that preserve intent, project empathy, and avoid personalization.

• Plan and conduct a challenging interview using the Participatory Interview Method. Demonstrate the ability to use a strategic approach to interviewing, meet resistance effectively and use evidence in a logical, non-confrontational manner.

• Create powerful introductory statements and assessment questions primarily through the application of the Wicklander-Zulawski Interview Method. 

• Draft an investigation summary providing all required information for use by organization decision-makers.

Nivel I - Técnicas de Entrevista e Interrogaciones

Este es un emocionante curso de dos días donde usted aprenderá cómo realizar entrevistas e interrogatorios que llevan a las admisiones de los culpables, mientras que logra eliminación de sospechas de los inocentes. Los participantes aprenderán a identificar el comportamiento veraz y falsa junto con potentes nuevas ideas para obtener confesiones de los culpables.

Nivel II - Taller Práctico Avanzado de WZ

Presentado por expertos Certificados en Entrevistas Forenses (CFI por sus siglas en Inglés), este programa interactivo es un seguimiento del Seminario de Entrevistas e Interrogatorios de dos días. Este taller llevará sus habilidades de entrevista al siguiente nivel. Trabaja a través de estudios de casos y ejercicios creados para prepararte mejor para tu próxima investigación.

Open Source Investigations - OSI.1

Open Source Investigations 1 provides an overview of OSINT and the intelligence cycle.  Attendees will understand the importance of anonymity and the need for focus on methodology over tools.  OSI 1 focuses on online people investigation skills with numerous hands-on exercises to practice what you learn.

Topics include:

• Privacy & Anonymity
• Investigation Platform- virtual machines, emulators, sock puppets, mobile phones
• Search Engines – advanced search operators, reverse image searching
• Collection & Preservation – recording and collecting OSINT findings
• Deleted Content – archives and cached
• Verification and Provenance
• People Investigation Skills – making use of usernames, cell phones, email addresses and other identifying information
• Social Media – locating relevant data, confirming accounts, capturing evidence and understanding platform features

Open Source Investigations - OSI.1, 2 & 3 Bundle

DOWNLOAD 2023 FLYER HERE

Open Source Investigations 1 provides an overview of OSINT and the intelligence cycle.  Attendees will understand the importance of anonymity and the need for focus on methodology over tools.  OSI 1 focuses on online people investigation skills with numerous hands-on exercises to practice what you learn.

Topics include:

• Privacy & Anonymity
• Investigation Platform- virtual machines, emulators, sock puppets, mobile phones
• Search Engines – advanced search operators, reverse image searching
• Collection & Preservation – recording and collecting OSINT findings
• Deleted Content – archives and cached
• Verification and Provenance
• People Investigation Skills – making use of usernames, cell phones, email addresses, and other identifying information
• Social Media – locating relevant data, confirming accounts, capturing evidence, and understanding platform features

Open Source Investigations 2  provides an in-depth exploration of location and event investigations. Attendees will learn techniques for geolocating images, collecting evidence as events happen, and the value of social media for location and event investigations.  OSI 2 provides active learning opportunities with 10 hands-on exercises and case studies. 

Topics include:

• OSINT Methodology Review
• Locations & Events – investigating places, events, and incidents
• Geolocation – using images and context clues to determine location
• Photos & Metadata – Image analysis and extraction of metadata
• Live OSINT – locating relevant data as live events happen
• Maps, Satellite Imagery and Transportation investigations
• Using Social Media platforms for collecting evidence in real-time or after incidents
• Social Media heat maps and hashtags
• OSINT for vulnerability assessments

Open Source Investigations 3 is an advanced course with a focus on business investigations, online due diligence, and dark web investigations.  OSI 3 explores the more technical aspects of open-source investigations.   Attendees participate in numerous hands-on activities and a CTF to practice what they have learned.   

Topics include:

• Business Investigations and due diligence basics
• Domains and websites
• Email Headers & IP Addresses
• Using wireless networks and MAC ID for investigations
• International Business Investigations
• Dark Web, Tor walkthrough and introduction to cryptocurrency
• Tor investigations and Pastebins
• Breach data access and ethical considerations
• Capture the Flag

Open Source Investigations - OSI.2

Open Source Investigations 2  provides an in depth exploration of location and event investigations. Attendees will learn techniques for geolocating images, collecting evidence as events happen and the value of social media for location and event investigations.  OSI 2 is provides active learning opportunities with 10 hands on exercises and case studies. 

Topics include:

• OSINT Methodology Review
• Locations & Events – investigating places, events and incidents
• Geolocation – using images and context clues to determine location
• Photos & Metadata – Image analysis and extraction of metadata
• Live OSINT – locating relevant data as live events happen
• Maps, Satellite Imagery and Transportation investigations
• Using Social Media platforms for collecting evidence in real time or after incidents
• Social Media heat maps and hashtags
• OSINT for vulnerability assessments

Open Source Investigations - OSI.2 & 3 Bundle

Open Source Investigations 2  provides an in depth exploration of location and event investigations. Attendees will learn techniques for geolocating images, collecting evidence as events happen and the value of social media for location and event investigations.  OSI 2 is provides active learning opportunities with 10 hands on exercises and case studies. 

Topics include:

• OSINT Methodology Review
• Locations & Events – investigating places, events and incidents
• Geolocation – using images and context clues to determine location
• Photos & Metadata – Image analysis and extraction of metadata
• Live OSINT – locating relevant data as live events happen
• Maps, Satellite Imagery and Transportation investigations
• Using Social Media platforms for collecting evidence in real time or after incidents
• Social Media heat maps and hashtags
• OSINT for vulnerability assessments

Open Source Investigations 3 is an advanced course with a focus on business investigations, online due diligence and dark web investigations.  OSI 3 explores the more technical aspects of open-source investigations.   Attendees participate in numerous hands-on activities and a CTF practice what they have learned.   

Topics include:

• Business Investigations and due diligence basics
• Domains and websites
• Email Headers & IP Addresses
• Using wireless networks and MAC ID for investigations
• International Business Investigations
• Dark Web, Tor walkthrough and introduction to cryptocurrency
• Tor investigations and Pastebins
• Breach data access and ethical considerations
• Capture the Flag

Open Source Investigations - OSI.3

Open Source Investigations 3 is an advanced course with a focus on business investigations, online due diligence and dark web investigations.  OSI 3 explores the more technical aspects of open-source investigations.   Attendees participate in numerous hands-on activities and a CTF practice what they have learned.   

Topics include:

• Business Investigations and due diligence basics
• Domains and websites
• Email Headers & IP Addresses
• Using wireless networks and MAC ID for investigations
• International Business Investigations
• Dark Web, Tor walkthrough and introduction to cryptocurrency
• Tor investigations and Pastebins
• Breach data access and ethical considerations
• Capture the Flag

Opioid Overdose Death Investigations

A comprehensive 2-day program on opioids, opioid deaths and the successful prosecution of overdose deaths as homicides. Participants will learn the different types of opioids and opiates being used including heroin, fentanyl, prescription pain killers and more. There will then be a discussion on the effects of opioids on users, how they break down in the body and how they kill.  A key segment will explain the effects of Narcan and why users are still overdosing.

Tactical Field Interviewing Techniques

This course offers law enforcement professionals a broad range of advanced methods and proprietary tools.  This training program will focus on evidence-based rapport-building techniques, focused on de-escalation and communication skills.  Participants will learn how to conduct more effective field interviews and investigations, resulting in more actionable intelligence, while maintaining professionalism and building trust with members of the community.

Trauma Informed Interviewing (PR)

Attend the Wicklander-Zualwski (WZ) Trauma Informed Interviewing course and discover methods on how to conduct more effective interviews, resulting in identifying the truth more efficiently and with less resistance while minimizing the re-traumatization of the interviewee. Learn about the impact of trauma on memory, the risks of misclassification of behavior, and practical tools allowing them to facilitate a productive conversation.

Disclaimer: In an effort to demonstrate the importance of trauma-informed interviewing and the impact of traumatic experiences, there will be discussions and examples of real-life situations. Class materials, including video examples of traumatized people sharing their experiences, may be sensitive in nature and could be triggering for some individuals.

Webinar: Cognitive Interview: Getting the Real Story

Even the most willing interview subject can run into a mental block. The cognitive interview method provides a structured, strategic approach  for extracting more information from a subject while identifying potential concerns within a story or alibi; the more details you obtain, the more accurate you become in determining the legitimacy of the information. This webinar will provide an overview of this structure, helping to overcome biases as well as address active listening, question formulation and  proper questioning techniques during advanced interviewing phases of the cognitive interview.

Webinar: Managing Conflict through De-Escalation Tactics

The non-confrontational methodology of WZ training has expanded into the difficult and high-pressure setting of conflict resolution and de-escalation.  Today’s retail associate, law enforcement officer, loss prevention professional or employee relations expert has often dealt with a disruptive guest, disgruntled employee or a hostile subject.  This webinar provides an introductory exploration of a sound approach to conflict resolution and de-escalation. Topics include “The Anatomy of Anger,” “Top Ten De-escalation Tips,” and “Managing Difficult Conversations.”

Webinar: The Process and Benefits of Building Rapport

Rapport is recognized as one of the most critical variables to ensuring a successful interview. But what exactly does it mean and how does it translate into the interview experience? In this webinar, we will walk through adaptive process to overcome challenges to rapport building and understand the conventional definition of rapport, explain its direct connection to the interview and discuss ways to strategically leverage its impact to ensure a non-confrontational, truthful interaction between the subject and the interviewer.

Webinar: Developing Details Beyond the Investigation

Many investigators struggle with exploring the “what else” and “who else” after obtaining an admission. These additional details can be crucial to expanding the scope of an investigation in difficult cases. This webinar provides practical tips on this process: jogging subject memories, noticing indicators of hidden information, listening critically, and formulating questions and rationalizations that can obtain more accurate information from your subject.

Webinar: Empathy Impact (Formerly Building Better Rationalizations)

Showing understanding and empathy is often identified as the most difficult part of any interview.  Showing empathy during the interview process can further develop rapport and show respect for the subject, regardless of their prior acts.  This can be accomplished through a series of empathy statements, while also demonstrating honesty and transparency by the interviewer.  This webinar provides insight into the empathy reward and what an interviewer can accomplish with a sound strategic approach to understanding without justifying one’s actions or suggesting leniency from consequences.

Webinar: Handling Difficult Conversations

There are many uncomfortable, high-stress conversations that managers often try to avoid: performance appraisals, disagreement mediation, counseling and coaching sessions, and the like. Removing discomfort from these situations creates an open dialogue between yourself and your associates that can lead to more positive outcomes for all parties. This webinar combines various interview strategies into a structure for confidently approaching difficult conversations and resolving operational concerns.

Webinar: Interview & Identify Better Candidates

Hiring the wrong employee can be a costly mistake for your business, leading to reduced productivity, morale issues, and wasted resources. This is why conducting effective pre-employment interviews can be critical to your success. Topics discussed in this webinar include: understanding the limitations of interpreting physical and verbal behavior, identifying areas of concern and exploration, and productive questioning techniques to dig beyond prepared answers.

Webinar: Interviewer Bias

Can a person be unbiased? Generally, no. Everyone has some degree of bias. Through a lifetime of conditioning by schools, religious institutions, families and the media it becomes human nature to assign judgment based on first impressions. For the professional interviewer, biases can be harmful, counterproductive and interfere with the objective pursuit of truth.

In this lesson, we will explore the most common biases encountered by investigative interviewers.  We will suggest ways to identify, avoid and overcome bias in your work, reflecting critically on judgments and being aware of blind spots so individuals can avoid stereotyping and acting on harmful prejudice.

Webinar: Lessons Learned from False Confessions

Obtaining a false confession would be detrimental to any organization or agency.  In this webinar will help you understand what experts in the field look and listen for during interviews that could trigger untruthful responses.  Additionally, we will discuss the causes and concerns that could lead someone down the path to admitting to something they did not do.  Learn how to mitigate risk and recognize the three different types of false confessions and how to avoid the various tactics that could lead a suspect to falsely confess.

Webinar: Listening to Understand

Every investigator can easily fall into the trap of listening to respond rather than listening to understand.  It’s often far too easy to insert unconscious bias or be thinking through your next question.  In this session we discuss active listening skills and recognizing verifiable information, inconsistencies in statements and focus on enhanced listening skills necessary to every investigator.  Listening to understand will help to re-explore timelines and ask appropriate follow-up questions and add clarity to statements obtained during the interview process. 

Webinar: Obtaining A Solid Statement

Even the best interviewers can encounter difficulties when it comes time to take the written statement. It is important to understand what elements of the admission should be included in the statement and how to structure the written account. This webinar will focus on addressing common problems in this crucial aspect of any investigative interview, including how to inform your subject on why they would want to write a statement.

Webinar: ORC Interviews

Organized Retail Crime (ORC) is a growing problem for the retail loss prevention associate. Proper questioning techniques can help these professionals determine if a shoplifting incident is a crime of opportunity or if the subject may be connected to an organized theft ring. This webinar will focus on developing information from a shoplifter through quick and effective interviews, and noticing physical signs of ORC.

Webinar: Power Report Writing

In many cases, an investigator’s final written report will be the primary basis for any decisions made by a company or prosecutor when deciding the disposition of a case. The completion of a thorough report is critical for documenting the investigative process and may support an investigator through any formal proceeding following an interview. This webinar will review the perils of poor report writing and discuss the top 10 power writing tips.  These tips will help add clarity to the final report and reflect a higher level of thoroughness and professionalism to any investigation.

Webinar: Remote Interviews

In today's environment, investigators and human resource professionals find themselves conducting interviews by phone or video conferencing more frequently. A properly executed remote interview can increase productivity while respecting social distancing guidelines. Modeled from the highly successful Tackling Telephone Interviewing, the WZ Remote Interviews Webinar covers interviews conducted via telephone or video conferencing.

Webinar: The Walk & Talk Method: Informal Interviews

An informal “walk & talk” interview is the perfect technique for the investigator who is always on the go. Using skillful questions while performing routine audits, location visits, and similar activities where investigators may find evidence of operational issues or employees with true integrity lapses. This webinar will discuss how to utilize specific questions from the selective interview in a fast-paced environment.

Webinar: Trauma Informed Interviewing

Obtaining information from traumatized individuals can often be a challenge as trauma impacts their ability to recall events and to retell what they do recall. Understanding the neurobiology of trauma will help an interviewer conduct a much better interview by giving context to the memory and behavior of those trying to tell their story and why some questions work better than others when conducting a trauma-informed interview.