What does a Notice of Investigation (NOI) communicate to an employee?

A Notice of Investigation (NOI) serves as an essential communication tool within an organization, specifically indicating to an employee that they are currently the subject of an administrative investigation. This notice outlines the fact that there are potential concerns or questions regarding their conduct or performance that need to be addressed.

Receiving an NOI informs the employee that formal inquiry processes are taking place, allowing them to understand the gravity and focus of the situation. This knowledge is crucial because it enables the employee to prepare for any subsequent proceedings, responses, or discussions that might arise as part of the investigative process.

In contrast, a summary of job performance, eligibility for promotion, or a warning about potential job loss does not encapsulate the primary purpose of an NOI, which is specifically tied to the status of an ongoing investigation. Thus, the focus of the notification is not on performance evaluations or outcomes but rather on the procedural implications surrounding the investigation itself.