Private detectives and investigators gather information for businesses and individuals rather than for police departments. They are also hired to find missing persons and may solve crimes. Investigators question people to find out information. Some of their time is spent using binoculars and cameras to watch suspects. This often involves sitting in a car and trying not to be noticed.
Investigators also spend a lot of time using the phone.
They may check people's financial or criminal background. This involves looking through public records, often using a computer. Investigators may examine the scene of a crime. They send fingerprints and other evidence to a lab for study. After gathering the information, they write a report for the client.