If a polygraph examiner can assume the role of a good leader, they can create an environment for the examinee that can lead to a higher rate of successful test results and even a higher rate of pretest and posttest disclosures.

An experienced examiner portraying good leadership skills will make it easier for the examinee to trust the examiner and therefore the examinee will be able to answer questions in a more elaborate manner. The examinee may also be more compliant with directions given during data collection and they may be more willing to have an open conversation about the results of the examination.

An examiner that lacks leadership skills while conducting a polygraph test can cause disruptions and outside issues during the polygraph that can increase the risk of a false positive or inconclusive result.

Examinees are patently aware of how the examiner makes them feel. They can also be aware that they may be emotionally responding more to the examiner than the polygraph test itself-the examiner is now the main stimulus instead of the test questions. 

Taking a look at the core communication skills of a good leader will help explain how appropriate leadership skills can enhance a polygraph examiner’s approach to a polygraph test, no matter the situation. Every communication, oral or written, builds a picture and creates an impression about the examiner and his leadership. 

The importance of the body in core communication, which breaks down to body language, facial expressions, hand movements while talking, eye contact and the distance the examiner put between him and the other person. These are all non-verbal communication.

Further part of our core communication is active listening, eye contact, affirmative nods (when appropriate), avoiding distracting gestures, questions for clarification, paraphrasing, not interrupting the speaker, not talking over the speaker and smooth transitions between talker and listener is all ways to show you are actively listening.

Additional concept to core communication is emotional intelligence.

A polygraph examiner with emotional intelligence is a person who can “deal effectively with their own and others emotions.” It has to do with being able to perceive, express, understand, and manage the emotions in the current environment. This is a highly desirable trait for a polygraph examiner to have, for clients will react differently emotionally during a polygraph examination. Sometimes the polygraph examiner will have to be able to handle the client who is crying, end emotionally distraught. 

Sometimes he has to deal with an angry and frustrated client.

Examiners who possess an appreciation for how emotional intelligence can improve testing outcomes will be better able to successfully lead an examinee trough their polygraph examination.

The three remaining concepts to core communication to take into consideration are giving and receiving feedback, conflict resolution and negotiating skills.

Miller, P. 2012 Leadership Communication – the three levels; Todays Manager, Singapore Institute of Management, Issue February – March 2012, PP. 19 – 21.