Whether you’re leaving to pursue a new opportunity, escape a toxic leader or environment, seek a better work-life balance, make a career change, or all of the above, you may encounter an interview request for departure.
Exit interviews are an important exchange between you and your current employer and are critical to any career transition. These interviews provide employees with a valuable opportunity to make a lasting impression on their company before they leave.
The case for exit interviews
So if you’re invited to participate in an exit interview and want to leave a (good) lasting impression, you need to prepare for that and – more importantly. Done right, an exit interview can benefit both you and your recent former employer.
Exit interviews are usually conducted by HR departments when an employee leaves a company. These interviews aim to gain insight into why the employee is leaving, what they like and dislike about their job, and what the company can do to improve the work environment. These insights are often used to improve retention rates and overall employee satisfaction.
Participating in an exit interview is an opportunity to provide feedback on your experience and share your thoughts on what could have been done differently. This feedback can help the company improve its workplace culture, communication and management practices. Additionally, participating in an exit interview can help you leave on a positive note with your employer and maintain an excellent professional relationship.
9 mistakes to avoid in your exit interview
Participating in an exit interview can be a nerve-wracking experience. However, it is essential to remain professional and avoid common pitfalls. Here are nine things to avoid doing during an exit interview and some tips on how to tackle them instead.
1. Don’t be overly negative or critical.
While it’s important to be honest about your experience, avoid being overly negative or critical, as it can come across as unprofessional and bitter. Instead, focus on constructive feedback and suggestions for improvement.
Example: Instead of saying, “The company culture is terrible and I can’t wait to leave,” say, “I believe there is room for improvement in the company culture. Here are some suggestions on how it could be better.
2. Don’t burn bridges.
Even if you leave the company on bad terms, remaining respectful and professional during the exit interview is essential. Burning bridges can damage your professional reputation and future job prospects.
Example: Instead of saying, “I can’t wait to work for a company that doesn’t treat its employees like garbage,” say, “I appreciate the opportunity to work for this company and hope to maintain a positive relationship in the future.”
3. Don’t be dishonest.
It is extremely important to be honest during an exit interview, as any false feedback can harm the company’s efforts to improve. However, be careful how you present your feedback to avoid injury or harm.
Example: Instead of saying “I’m leaving because I got a better job offer,” say “I got an opportunity that’s closer to my career goals.”
4. Don’t make it personal.
Avoid making the exit interview personal by attacking individuals or specific departments. Instead, focus on broader issues and problems.
Example: Instead of saying, “My boss was a terrible manager,” say, “I believe there could be improvements in the way managers provide feedback and support to their team members.”
5. Don’t make demands.
While it’s fine to offer suggestions for improvement, avoid making demands or ultimatums during the exit interview.
Example: Instead of saying, “If you don’t change the hours, I will never recommend this company to anyone,” say, “I believe that flexible hours can improve employee satisfaction and productivity.”
6. Do not share confidential information.
Avoid sharing confidential or sensitive information during the exit interview, as this can harm the company and your professional reputation.
Example: Instead of sharing details about a coworker’s personal problems, say, “I believe there could be improvements in the way the company handles confidential information.”
7. Don’t be emotional.
While it’s understandable to feel emotional during an exit interview, try to remain calm and professional. Emotional outbursts can damage your reputation and discredit your reviews.
Example: Instead of crying and screaming, take a moment to gather yourself and present your feedback clearly and calmly.
8. Don’t get defensive.
If your employer asks for feedback on your performance, avoid being defensive and making excuses. Instead, be open to constructive criticism and use it as an opportunity for growth.
Example: Instead of saying, “I only made mistakes because I was overworked and paid,” say, “I appreciate the feedback and will use it to improve my performance in the future.”
9. Don’t concern yourself with money.
While salary and benefits may be a factor in your decision to leave, avoid making them the focus of your exit interview. Instead, focus on broader issues and problems.
Example: Instead of saying, “I’m leaving because I was offered a higher salary elsewhere,” say, “I believe there could be improvements in the way the company rewards and recognizes employee contributions.”
Onward and forward
Participating in an exit interview can be a valuable opportunity to provide feedback and improve future workplace experiences. By avoiding these common prohibitions, you can ensure that your feedback is constructive and professional, and maintain a positive relationship with your former colleagues and employer.