What is an exit interview?

An exit interview is a conversation you may want to have with a team member when they’re leaving your organization. This conversation can help you gain insights into the team member’s experience working with your company and better understand why they’re resigning.

Why do exit interviews matter?

Regardless of the reason behind a team member’s departure—and whether they resigned or were let go—exit interviews are an important part of a truly effective HR process. They can reveal areas for improvement and play a significant role in creating a happy and healthy working environment for all of your people.

Who conducts exit interviews?

People may feel more comfortable giving feedback to someone who isn’t their direct manager. Because exit interviews entail asking departing team members strategic (and sometimes, sensitive) questions, a neutral third party, like an HR representative, typically conducts them. However, managers and HR personnel may conduct the interview together depending on the company and the circumstances behind a team member’s departure.

What is an exit interview template?

An exit interview template is a helpful guide for HR leaders who want to ask open-ended questions to team members leaving the company. The questions in the template typically prompt lengthy discussions with the team members. The template can also help HR managers stay focused when conducting interviews so they can collect valuable feedback.

What should you not say in an exit interview?

Treat departing team members with respect and professionalism, regardless of why they’re leaving.

Should you use the same exit interview questions each time?

Using the same exit interview questions for each departing team member can provide consistency, which allows for better comparison and analysis of data over time. It also ensures that everyone is given an equal opportunity to provide feedback on similar aspects of their experience.

Can a departing employee decline an exit interview?

Yes, it’s okay for people to decline their exit interview. Participation in exit interviews is typically voluntary and leavers aren’t obligated to take part if they’re uncomfortable with the process.

Is an exit interview good or bad?

An exit interview gives businesses the opportunity to collect honest feedback from departing team members. Exit interviews provide teams and businesses with a richer understanding of which internal processes (i.e., training, promotions, communication) are effective and which policies they may need to scrap or update to retain and attract new quality talent.

Does your company need to host exit interviews?

Exit interviews aren’t required, but they’re a great way to gain insights into people’s satisfaction with your organization.

Where should an exit interview occur?

Host exit interviews in a private area where the interviewer and departing team member feel comfortable. You can hold the meeting remotely or in person.