PI's: Know your limits, Then Prepare!

From the business perspective you can find it hard to say "no" to client when discussing a potential investigation. It is important to know your limits and respond accordingly. As an experienced investigator you have, or will, receive that call to consider an investigation. An investigation that may be beyond your level of expertise, or capabilities. 

So how can you still say "yes" to an investigation, when your resources and capabilities are limited?

Start by identifying your weak points, areas where you may not have the required expertise, or for times when you have a heavy case load then, prepare in advance.

• Identify potential partners - Through your association meetings, individuals you meet through the course of your work, establish potential partners that can work with you to fill the gaps you have identified.  
• Establish pricing and/or agreements - Knowing what a specific skill may cost you will help you work with the client in determining pricing. For example; you are asked to work an investigation that will require computer forensics, that may be a weak point for your skill set. Identify qualified computer forensic analysts and developing pricing for common tasks. 
• Reciprocal Agreements - Consider offering the same assistance to them if they encounter similar situations. This will expand your potential business opportunities as well as further cementing the partnership. 

By identifying partners with the necessary skills and expertise, establishing agreements in advance, and offering your services in return, you can expand your investigative offerings. This will put you in a position to accept almost any investigation at times you have a heavy workload, or the investigation requires skills you do not have. 

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