Exit interview
Exit Interview: Purpose, Process, Benefits and Common Questions
In this post, we will discuss what an exit interview is, why it is conducted, the process involved, and how it benefits both employees and organisations.
Let’s look at these sections in detail:
What is an Exit Interview?
An exit interview is the final discussion held with an employee who is leaving the company. The primary purpose is to understand their overall experience, collect honest feedback, and identify areas for improvement in the workplace. It also gives the company a chance to learn about its culture, the way managers handle teams, and how different processes are working.
Purpose of Exit Interviews
Exit interviews are typically conducted for several key purposes. Here they are:
1. Getting honest feedback
The primary purpose of an exit interview is to understand what went wrong or what could have been improved. Employers want to know the real reason you are leaving. Your feedback can help them improve the workplace and prevent other employees from quitting in the future.
2. Completing the last formalities
Exit interviews are also used to go through any remaining obligations. For example, if you have signed a non-compete agreement, you may be reminded about it. Other things like intellectual property agreements or similar commitments are also discussed during this time.
3. Possibility of staying back
In some cases, the company might try to convince you to stay. They may offer a different role or responsibilities. This does not happen very often, but it is possible. As an employee, it is good to think beforehand if you are open to staying and under what conditions.
Exit Interview Process
- Schedule – Fix the interview during the last few working days of the employee.
- Prepare – Keep a neutral HR person ready and make a set of questions beforehand.
- Create a safe space – Ensure the employee’s privacy and explain the purpose of the interview.
- Conduct – Talk about their reasons for leaving, their overall experience, and any suggestions they may have.
- Document and analyse – Note down the points, keep them confidential, and study the feedback.
- Act – Share the findings with management and take steps for improvement.
- Close offboarding – Complete all formalities, including paperwork and collecting company items.
Benefits of Exit Interviews
Exit interviews are useful for both the employee who is leaving and the company. For the employee, it gives a sense of closure and a chance to share honest feedback. Sometimes, their thoughts can also help bring positive changes in the workplace.
For the company, these interviews give a clear picture of what problems exist, so they can work on improving policies, culture, and day-to-day practices. This way, it also helps in building better retention plans and in understanding what employees really need and expect.
Common exit interview questions
When you attend an exit interview, you will be asked a few questions about why you are leaving and what can be made better in the company. Here are some common ones you might face:
- Why did you decide to leave our company?
- What did you like the most about working here?
- If we match your new offer, would you be open to staying with us?
- How was your overall experience with us?
- Would you like to refer any of your friends to join us? If not, please share the reason.
- Do you have any suggestions for us to improve as an organisation?
- Was the management supportive during your time here?
- Did you enjoy the work, projects or challenges given to you?
- What are your thoughts or suggestions on our HR policies, procedures and systems?
- Do you feel any changes are needed in our systems, policies or procedures?
- Were you encouraged by management to share your views and ideas?
- Did you get enough opportunities for training and learning on the job?
- Did you notice any communication gaps with your seniors or the top management?
- Were your seniors guiding you from time to time about improving your role and performance?
- If given a chance, what is the one important thing you would like to change in this company?
- Finally, would you like to share any feedback, comments or suggestions before you leave?
Most of these questions centre on your experience with the company and how it could be improved.
That concludes our post. We welcome your thoughts and questions, so please feel free to leave a comment below. We will respond to you promptly.
FAQs
Q. What do you say in an exit interview?
Ans: Thank the company for the opportunity, share positive experiences, and provide honest but polite feedback. Keep it professional and helpful.
Q. Can you skip the exit interview?
Ans: Yes, you can skip, but it is better to attend. It allows you to share your feedback. If you don’t want to, inform HR politely.
Q. What are the disadvantages of exit interviews?
Ans: Many employees don’t share openly, fearing it may backfire. Also, it is often too late to fix issues once someone has already resigned.
Q. What not to say during an exit interview?
Ans: Don’t bad-mouth colleagues or bosses. Avoid angry or personal remarks. Speak politely and provide valuable feedback.
Q. What are the risks of exit interviews?
Ans: People may hide the truth, or negative words can spoil relations and references. Feedback may not always result in immediate changes.
Q. Why are exit interviews good for employees?
Ans: It allows employees to share their perspective, suggest improvements, and leave with closure. It also helps the company improve.
