Which is the first step in the proper steps of a sexual harassment investigation?

• A. Report made
• B. Scope released
• C. Method released
• D. Specific findings released

Answer: (A)

The process starts when a formal report or complaint is filed. This intake creates an official record, clarifies what happened, who is involved, and whether the incident falls under the policy. That triggers the assignment of an investigator and the initial steps to move forward. Without a report, there’s no documented basis to begin the investigation, so actions like setting the scope, choosing the method for gathering information, or releasing any findings wouldn’t occur yet. After the report, the team defines how wide the investigation should go, decides how to collect information (interviews, documents, etc.), and then conducts the inquiry toward producing findings. The other steps described are steps that come after the investigation has begun.