So, do just that: walk up to the person and say, why did you pass off my idea as your own? In most cases, the person will be so taken aback that you wont have to worry about a repeat performance. In some way that is flattering. It could be because theyre trying to spend more time away from the office. While the thief may not admit what theyve done, holding one-on-one interviews with all of your employees may lead to information that will point you in the right direction. With over 10 years of experience, he specializes in digital marketing and content creation. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. company information, they may also be violating the law. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Be sure to ask everyone for their side of the story. Be sure to take note of the date, time, and what was stolen. Be generous about sharing credit yourself. The best answers will be clear and quick, and answer the question head-on. Such behavior may indicate that the employee is guilty of something. Posted by: Pam | September 14, 2007 at 01:57 PM. Frequently talk to your employees informally about their lives, aspirations, and so on. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. In the way that grocery stores pass the cost for customers nibbling grapes without buying them to all . And the financial impact can be even more significant. This includes when and where the theft occurred. Id tell them that were terminating their employment as of today, and Id walk them out after allowing them to gather their personal items. Use clear trash bags. Always, if I do this I let the person I have spoken with know someone in upper management like my suggestion to get some additional input from you in tweaking this. They may take more sick days than usual orcall in sickwhen theyre not ill. If the rest of the team likes the idea, go ahead and take a leadership role with it. I always make sure before I let other know the ideals that can save the company money and time I document and let upper management only know, then I suggest who would be of assistance on the project. Something like we then discussed various ways to eliminate the middleman. Popular tracking programs include SentryPC, Teramind, ActivTrak, and HubStaff. Biron Clark is a former executive recruiter who has worked individually with hundreds of job seekers, reviewed thousands of resumes and LinkedIn profiles, and recruited for top venture-backed startups and Fortune 500 companies. So its essential to take action as soon as possible tominimizethe financial damage. This will only escalate the situation. Developing the self-awareness to deal with the emotions that come up and act on them constructively is key. Avoid going off-topic and speaking badly about your coworker's overall character or job performance. I track my ideas in my Lotus Notes Journal but I also use cc to key persons as part of a keeping you in the loop on what I am working on. 13 1 more reply jormungdr 8 mo. Well, I called off work with a really bad cough, so it's the perfect time to whine about.work! "To keep it professional, to not allow emotions to run high and to perform your own 'witch hunt' were all good tips. Or if they start taking more extended lunches or more breaks. If you ask them about their behavior, they may become defensive and try to justify their actions. In the process youll hone important skills like communication. Aside from noting the issue, also, most importantly, what you are doing about it (i.e. Be as professional as possible. Don't speculate, and don't ramble and chat about things that aren't directly related to the pressing topic your coworker's illicit theft from your company. The above answers will satisfy a hiring manager and give them the information they want to know, which is evidence that youll follow company policies and report thefts but without disrupting the workplace. Do you have anything to say about this?. Save any emails that show your interaction with a client and also document any client visits and communication with suppliers. That is when the employee is stealing from, So its essential to take action as soon as possible to. And what was stolen, and who you believe is responsible. What to Do When Your Boss Lets Harassment Happen at Work, Things You Should Never Talk About With Coworkers. About the less friendly workplace, I think it's sufficiently unfriendly to steal from colleges in the first place. Apparently, they gave her a chance to forfeit the envelope at least, but she got defensive. Also, if one employee steals and no one takes action against them, others can. I stayed late yesterday to finish and I think it paid off.. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. If you have any security on site, enlist them to help you escort the employee off of the premises. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Telling a story when youre not asked will only complicate your answer and lead to more questions, and not necessarily good ones. The best ideas will get developed by them or others, they will be able to move on to newer, bigger, better ideas, and eventually will be recognized as a source of ideas and innovation. If you suspect someone at work is stealing, there are things you can do to catch them and end workplace theft. What could be better? Note when the employee resists a follow-up question. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/05\/Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-3-Version-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-3-Version-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/05\/Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-3-Version-5.jpg\/v4-728px-Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-3-Version-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Jeffrey Fermin is a Performance Marketing Manager based in Miami, Florida, who currently works for AllVoices. This is especially important in retail, where its critical to not involve customers in an internal matter. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/52\/Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-7-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-7-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/52\/Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-7-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-7-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. I'm on the second to last shift at work, and if it's slow I get cut early. Remember, you wouldn't want someone to talk to your boss about your alleged "stealing" if they misheard something that you said softly on the phone in the company break lounge. You want justice and may even feel a little victimized. As soon as you notice that a theft has happened, gather as much information as possible, including the time, date, what was stolen, and who was working at the time. Its pricey, but if someone is stealing its likely worth it. Youll earn a reputation as a go-to for creativity, originality and ingenuity. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. The first step is to notice what what arises for you. Thus, employee theft can create aculture of stealingwithin the company. Youre most likely to hear this question for jobs that involve handling cash such as jobs in retail and sales. Posted by: | September 17, 2007 at 12:58 PM. What do I do if my boss took cash that a customer paid and had me change the invoice to zero? Once youve gathered all the information, its time to decide on a course of action. Face-to-face interaction is optimal for giving bad news, whether you're discussing a coworker's dishonesty or a desire to move to another company. Pay attention not only to your vocal inflection, but also to your body language. Really I believe in the team instead of my own credit however, you want to keep creative juices flowing and encourage people. Consider sharing your best ideas by explaining them to groups instead of to one colleague. Once you've investigated and concluded that an employee has been stealing, either assets or data, take the following steps: 1. Create a plan for getting buy-in for the initiative across the company. This could include awarning,suspension, ortermination. This way, as ideas are being worked out, there is an understanding that at the very least, it was a team effort and all people, including me and can get their share of the credit. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Forensic accountants will typically charge $300-500 per hour for this kind of work. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. And if an employee is sellingconfidentialcompany information, they may also be violating the law. Dont confront the person accused of stealing in anger. This is a great forum for documenting our ideas, discussions with our peers, issues & solutions, etc. At the same time, this could simply be a sign theyre not well-trained on the register. Even when I'd ask she says no. In the event that a coworker is stealing your clients, it is vital that you gather evidence. They may want to use it for their gain. Thus, employee theft can create a, All rights reserved by The Balance Work, Start-Up Boom In Pandemic Detailed Stats, All Stats Related To Cut In Greenhouse Gas Emission Due To WFH, USA No. Id avoid a public confrontation with my coworker but Id inform my manager as quickly as possible so that they can decide the best course of action since this is a serious offense., If I saw a coworker steal from the company, Id report what I saw to my manager the same day and let them decide the appropriate next steps., I would report what I saw to my boss as quickly as possible. It would help if you also asked them what got stolen. Resistance, discomfort, and changing the subject are all signs that they know something. If they stole something of value, you might decide to terminate their employment. So I recommend you answer by simply sharing what you would do instead of telling stories about past employees and colleagues who stole. If you only have receipts for 9 sales, its a major red flag. As a small thank you, wed like to offer you a $30 gift card (valid at GoNift.com). Document your idea and e-mail it to the people in your organization who can implement it. Don't Let Your Feelings Fester. This way, theresdocumentationof the incident. So much can happen during that time that its possible your co-worker may not even remember the incident. Isnt is amazing how others want to take credit for good ideals. Or they may begin toslack offand not do their work. A convicted murderer has been arrested and charged after the body of Leslie Obi, a 43-year-old woman who went missing in January, was found in a wooded area in southeast Houston, according to the . Of Job Openings In 2023 Quick Stats. The best way is to make suggestions in a group setting or to provide it in writing (email)to more than one person. mitigating action). So here are some things to keep in mind when it comes to employee theft. Thus, it can lead to legal implications for the company. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. In all likelihood, stealing money or other valuables from the company is an offense that should lead to immediate termination. Those things are up to your boss to evaluate, not you. This will help you avoid hiring someone likely to steal from the company. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/74\/Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-6-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-6-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/74\/Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-6-Version-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-6-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. And there are a couple of key things you should do when answering this interview question if you want to get the job. Also, I doubt your colleagues are going to be very happy with you. By using our site, you agree to our. If you have enough evidence to prove that someone stole, you may take disciplinary action. ago I took it as each team has a section. Its not about you but how it will benefit the company that really counts. Theft is legally something that can account for immediate termination of employment. Its also completely okay to stand up for yourself in the moment. Before you escalate the issue, though, try these 10 tips for coping with a lazy coworker. If an employee has a criminal record, its more likely that they will steal from the company. 7. Such employees are often in debt and are looking for ways to make more money. Theft isn't a petty topic, why is why it's your job to consider your overall impression when you give tough news or information to your boss. Enter your email address to instantly generate a PDF of this article. When you make thereport, be sure to give all the details. Unfair. This also gives employees a chance to voice their concerns, complaints, and provide constructive criticism in hopes of improving the workplace! Jeffrey has won a Microsoft Octas Innovation Award and is a TechCrunch Disrupt Runner-Up. Strange behavior or fidgeting around the register when nobody is around. If you see a coworker stealing, its essential to take immediate action to minimize the damage. All rights reserved. This way, theres, If you decide to suspend or terminate an employee, follow your, They may take more sick days than usual or, For example, if they suddenly got a huge amount in their. There are several steps to take if a coworker steals your sale. How to give an impressive answer that makes them want to hire you. Such behavior may signify that the employee has to do something else. Remember, people are much more receptive to a cool, collected person opposed to a person who is angry. You will then have a record of when the idea was submitted and any responses received. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The next time your corrupt co-workers starts his spiel about how much he needs your assistance (a.k.a. If an employee is hiding assets, its a sign that theyre trying to avoid paying taxes on them. Suppose you didnt witness the act. You dont want the thief to know youre on to them and steal your proof. Stealing ideas stifles creativity and team spirit. In doing so, youll draw attention as an innovator and get known around the office for being gracious and inclusive. Yes, ignore the petty issues. Thanks.". Always indicate that youd report the incident to your superiors when answering interview questions about theft. Employers often ask, If you saw a coworker stealing, what would you do? to see if you seem honest and upfront, and because they want to know if youd be comfortable reporting a situation to your superiors (which is the right thing to do if you see a coworker stealing or breaking another important company policy). If you dont have CCTV cameras installed, now is the time. Some warning signs may indicate that an employee is the one who stole. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. As difficult as it can be to not take this personally, remember to be professional. Asking them something like "Would you tell on an employee for stealing?" Just remember youll need evidence that the work or idea was actually yours. may also give away what you know. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/77\/Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-2-Version-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-2-Version-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/77\/Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-2-Version-6.jpg\/v4-728px-Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-2-Version-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. The first time someone criticizes you, choose whether you want to ignore the remark or act on it. How to Catch a Thief at Work: Detecting and Dealing with Employee Theft, https://xtrachef.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/xtraCHEF_How-to-Catch-Theft-and-Fraud-at-Your-Restaurant-1.pdf, https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2019/10/24/how-to-prevent-your-employees-from-stealing-at-work/, https://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/16/business/16expenses.html, https://www.pmq.com/what-to-do-when-you-catch-a-pizzeria-employee-stealing/, https://www.marchnetworks.com/intelligent-ip-video-blog/employee-theft-what-are-you-missing/, https://www.techrepublic.com/article/employee-monitoring-software/, https://www.eidebailly.com/insights/articles/2019/4/why-you-need-to-understand-the-importance-of-forensic-accounting, https://www.forbes.com/sites/lizryan/2015/02/24/what-is-theft-of-time-and-what-does-it-mean-to-me/, https://www.inc.com/magazine/19820601/6942.html, https://hrdailyadvisor.blr.com/2010/10/21/practical-steps-for-addressing-theft-in-the-workplace/, https://smallbiztrends.com/2019/09/employee-theft.html, https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbeshumanresourcescouncil/2021/07/12/five-reasons-your-organization-needs-an-anonymous-employee-feedback-program/?sh=7f4bc508cf19, https://hbr.org/2019/07/to-be-happier-at-work-invest-more-in-your-relationships, https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2019/10/24/how-to-prevent-your-employees-from-stealing-at-work/?sh=6bd3093e39b7, Einen Diebstahl am Arbeitsplatz aufdecken. Posted by: Kristi | September 21, 2007 at 12:53 PM. Don't Enable Them. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, Official website for the United States federal government, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e4\/Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-16-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-16-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e4\/Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-16-Version-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-16-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. "Too often, when we think of a great idea, we turn to the person closest to . This will help, When collecting evidence, be sure to keep everything in a. The first step is to notice what what arises for you. Thinks it's OK to rummage through other's desk and drawers. So the wild thing is that she didn't give the money back. Who will answer questions and be responsible for follow-up? If the value of the item stolen is less than $50, you might start with. If you witness the act, jot down a description of the thief. When your manager does indeed believe that their employees should compete with each other and propagates this as the way your organization operates, then approaching your coworker is unlikely to have much benefit. You also want to steer clear of making the situation into a joke. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This is unlikely to be theft if youre tracking employee sales numbers. He earned a Bachelors Degree in Psychology and a Bachelor of Education from Florida International University. One idea is to add a slide at the end of a presentation giving credit to your team (just make sure you get to that slide if youre pressed for time!). This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/74\/Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-2-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-2-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/74\/Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-2-Version-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-2-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Requiring your employees to personally justify or get approval for business expenses is one simple way of preventing this. 12 Signs Your Coworker Might Actually Be Flirting with You, How to Respond When a Recruiter Reaches Out: 3 Email Templates and Key Tips, 20+ Believable Excuses for When Youre Running Late, How to Find Out Where Someone Works: The Ultimate Guide, How to Sell Your Skills: 10+ Great Ways to Put Yourself Out There, 15 Basic Skills You Need to Be a Good Housekeeper, How to Unionize Your Workplace in 8 Easy Steps. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/96\/Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-1-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-1-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/96\/Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-1-Version-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-1-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Part II asked respondents how regularly members of each respondent group (teachers or administrators) practiced the behaviors cited in part I. There may also be legal implications if you dont take action. Id ask the employee to step into my office and Id inform them that they were seen stealing. Set expectations by posing questions like: Keep the door open to revisit these agreements. If someone got stolen from the office, its important to look for signs of employee theft. Take it to other police. Once youve decided on a course of action, its time to take action. You should be suspicious if the employees financial situation changes without explanation. How to Deal With a Co-worker Wearing Smelly Perfume. They may be reluctant to talk about their, For example, if they have access to customer, They may also be hiding assets to keep them away from, Hiding assets is a severe offense, and you should report it to the, And the financial impact can be even more significant. How should I handle it? Can You Get Fired for Bad Mouthing Coworkers on Facebook? Dont stewonly bringing it up a month later. In todays workplace there tends to be a huge emphasis on teams. Video is preferred, but witnesses can also work. The employee is secretive or has suspicious behavior. You can start the investigation by asking theaccusedwhen and where the theft occurred. Document them in memos and emails. Who are the project owners? Providing a quick response also shows that you already have opinions about whether stealing is wrong, which is important for companies that strongly discourage it. And if employees find out that another employee has stolen from the company, they may also lose trust in the company. The Nest: What Do You Do If You See a Co-Worker Stealing? No response after an interview? Posted by: Bernie | September 21, 2007 at 01:11 PM. Stealing at the workplace is a severe offense that can lead to termination. Posted by: Meredith | September 18, 2007 at 11:56 AM. For example, if you found an item on someones desk, take note of the date and time you discovered it. Do you happen to know anything about it?. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/af\/Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-15-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-15-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/af\/Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-15-Version-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Catch-Someone-Stealing-at-Work-Step-15-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. u/HmmmmTasty, if you give a tip that's intended to be split between me and the other people in my section and I keep the whole amount, is that stealing? To learn how to confront a stealing employee, keep reading! You can also look for inconsistencies in inventory or sales records or note special register functions that would allow an employee to pocket some cash. Simply reach out to us and well do everything we can to assist you. These are some warning signs that may indicate that an employee is stealing from the company. Why do so many of us feel that well only have a few good ideas and they must be protected so we get credit? However, with this interview question, its not particularly beneficial to share a story in your answer unless youre asked. How is it even tables that lived the snot out of me wouldn't leave a tip. I like the email trail. Do not try to confront the thief, as they could be unpredictable and come after you or your job, according to The Nest. "I like the idea to use transparent or clear trash bags so the potential thief cannot hide stuff inside trash bags. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. 1) The employer is not responsible for the criminal actions of an employee up to the point they are made aware of them (see below): while employers are responsible for the acts of their employees committed in the course of or as part of their employment, committing crimes (e.g. Giving your employees unwanted merchandise or small bonuses go a long way to making them feel cared for. John then expounded on this. When you talk to your boss about your coworker, do it in person. Posted by: Karen | September 17, 2007 at 02:27 PM. Keep calm and remain steady; to do this may be a sign of real desperation on the part of your co-worker, or it may be a lark. (Years ago working in a clothing store, I was amazed that a young girl from a very well-off family was the ringleader of a group of sales clerks who were stealing from the store. Copy your supervisor, so he/she will know who generated the idea. That way there could be no doubt as to who suggested what, when. And, an idea is nothing if it is not implemented. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Although it seems counter intuitive, my experience shows that success flows from sharing ideas and efforts more than from protecting them and overtly seeking credit. Create a plan for getting buy-in for the initiative across the company. Bring HR and/or a legal department rep if you have these departments at your company. With a business background, I have an inclination towards raising awareness of workplace issues as catering to them helps you excel in your career. They may try to sell it to the highest bidder. Youll see this in the various example answers below, If I saw a coworker stealing, I would report it to my direct superior as soon as I could. Make sure that you have all of your information straight before taking it to the next level. Yelling, ranting or whining never helps. If theyve a sudden change in financial situation, it could signify theyre stealing. You should check anemployees criminal recordbefore hiring them. While theft is serious, letting an employee go is also serious and has a big impact on company morale and of course that employees career and life, so I think its critical to be sure of what was seen and to know all the facts in this type of situation.. The employee is overly defensive. I keep dates/times and the ideal(s) of everything that I come up with. Document your idea and e-mail it to the people in your organization who can implement it. Informing a boss about a coworker's theft is probably not a suitable time to crack a joke about his penchant for listening to opera during his lunch breaks, for example. Use random register audits/inspections. My supervisor has each of his direct reports submit a Weekly Status Report to him every Friday by 3pm. Tell her that you saw your coworker stealing money from a purse at work, or whatever exact instance you saw. Set expectations. Ask the employee if they mind you recording the conversation before you start. Once you have evidence, its time to report the incident to your boss or, You can start the investigation by asking the, If the accused has an alibi, be sure to check it out.