What to Expect During an Exit Interview

Not all companies perform an exit interview when an employee announces they are leaving the company. But those that do will most likely want you to provide invaluable feedback about overall attitudes toward the working environment.  This might include the terms and conditions of the work that was performed, whether there are any procedures that the company needs to adopt, and the effect of overall morale at the office. If you have just resigned from your position, PrideStaff Financial wants you to be prepared for an exit interview.

When should I expect an exit interview?

As soon as you hand in your resignation letter, you could receive the “exit interview phone call” at any time. Once the clock starts ticking on your notice period, expect that HR will prepare a time and day that is convenient for all management and you. Usually, within the first week of handing in the resignation letter, HR will make a phone call to get the ball rolling for the official exit.

What if the reason why I’m leaving is personal/due to the company?

Feelings run high when someone is leaving due to an unhealthy work atmosphere, but the exit interview is meant to be cordial and professional. Do not use an exit interview as your own personal soap box to air out grievances. Remember, you may need this company for future references. Keep comments general, concise, and mention general behaviors that you feel impacted your decision to leave. Don’t assassinate someone’s character or throw your boss under the bus. It’s about giving an overall impression that may help the company make positive changes and give them information.

Use your best judgement.

If the reason for leaving a company is more personal and has to do with outside influences, such as family or health, then what is said during an exit interview should be kept fairly simple. State the positive aspects of the job and why you have enjoyed being there. If they ask you to go more in-depth about why you are leaving, remember that you’re not required to answer. Personal reasons are personal, and there is no justification for you to have to divulge it. Simply state that, “due to personal reasons out of my control, I must resign.” The same can be said for a better career opportunity. Sometimes it’s just time for an employee to move on from a company and continue on a different career path. Whatever your reasons, stress how much you’ve enjoyed working there and some positive attributes that you feel will help them in choosing another candidate to replace you.

In the end, be professional. No matter what your reason for leaving a company, if you have to conduct an exit interview, stay as professional as you can. Keep conversation cordial, positive, and honest (while not throwing others under the bus). Try to write down a few positive aspects that you have enjoyed while working there and use those during your exit interview. Above all, remember that the exit interview helps the company more than it helps you. If you’ve had issues with the company, now is the chance to help them make some positive changes for future candidates.

PrideStaff Financial is one of the nation’s leading recruiting firms. Our consultants can help you navigate through any stage of your career. Contact our financial consultants today to find out how we can help you.