Exit Interview Tips: 5 Questions You Must Answer Before You Exit the Job

If you are planning to leave your current job probably for a bigger role, you might need to carefully read this article.

Many organizations conduct various categories of things while de-boarding their resigning or retrenched staff. Part of the de-boarding process involves conducting exit interviews.

In this article, we’ll discuss some exit interview tips that you can apply to have a productive exit interview if you are called upon.

Meanwhile, before we continue, here’s the table of contents below.

Why exit interviews

What is an exit interview in employment?

An exit interview is a conversation between an employee and an employer—likely a human resources representative. This is an opportunity to discuss job satisfaction or offer feedback on policy and direction.

Basically, companies conduct exit interviews so as to hear employees’ opinions about their job, organizational management, and more.

Why exit interviews

The purpose of an exit interview is to assess the overall employee experience within your organization and identify opportunities to improve retention and engagement.

When completed in a consistent and standardized way, these interviews can help you foster positive relationships and a welcoming working environment.

So one thing conducting exit interviews will do for you is that it allows the employee to provide constructive feedback and leave on a positive note.

Furthermore, you will learn the reason for an employee’s departure (it may be different than you think!).

So, generally, you get a lot of honest feedback. The reason is that departing employees are generally more forthcoming than those still in their jobs.

Read: What Jobs can you get with a Business Degree? | 2023 Update

Do I have to do an exit interview?

Exit interviews are not compulsory. Unless you sign a contract that specifically states that you will participate in an exit interview, a business cannot require you to complete an interview when you are leaving the company.

What are the most common exit interview questions?

So here in this section, we are going to look at some of the most common exit interview questions.

Question 1: Why are you leaving our organization?

You might be asked this question. Yeah. It’s a must. It is basically to know the reason you’re leaving. So when answering this question, strike a balance between honesty and civility.

Smart Answer: ”Working here has been a great experience for me, and I’ve learned a lot during my time here. However, I feel like I’ve done everything I can in this capacity and am ready for a change. While I have gained a lot of knowledge and experience in my work, I believe it is time for me to move on. I’ve gained significant experience for the future, and I believe it is the appropriate time to broaden my horizons and improve my abilities.”

Question 2: What are your thoughts on management, and do you have any suggestions or criticism for how we might improve?

This question helps your employer see your position from your point of view. When giving feedback, be very polite and fair. Be specific and positive in your feedback while keeping the focus on the company’s improvement.

Smart Answer: “I am pleased with how the management has directed me in my work, although I believe there is potential for growth. As a result of management’s inattention to the various ways they could use my function, I found myself feeling a little stuck at times. However, if new employees are given the freedom to be self-sufficient from the start, we can expect more original and novel ideas from them, which will contribute to the company’s success. This appears to be a more efficient method than waiting for orders.”

Question 3: Do you think our organization helped you achieve your career goals?

When answering this question, describe how your employer met your expectations and helped you advance in your career. Thank him for all the training you received. Give details on how and why you felt supported, as well as when you didn’t.

Smart Answer: “When I first started working here, I was looking forward to the possibilities to enhance my career and expand my knowledge and experience. While the company has provided me with the opportunity to study things that I had hoped to learn in my career, I believe It’s the appropriate time for me to broaden my horizons by working for a different company.”

Also Read: Congratulations! 7 Things a First Time Manager Must Do

Question 4: What factors did you consider when choosing for a new job?

This question will allow your current company to know where they are not getting things right. It allows them to see other aspects where they need to improve, for example, your new role may include benefits not provided by your current employer.

Smart Answer: “In my new job, my boss will provide me with so much more training aimed to help me develop in my career. With the new set of skills and knowledge, I hope to provide more value and ultimately earn more.”

Question 5: Would you want to stay a while longer?

Your employer may want to know if you’d want to have a change of heart to want to stay a while longer.

Smart Answer: “I’ve been with this organization for a long time, and it’s given me a lot of valuable skills and opportunities to learn. I’ve sincerely loved my time here, but I believe my new role will place a greater demand on my skills and professional objectives. However, if the appropriate offer came up, I would seriously consider returning.”

Perks for a wonderful exit interview session

Having looked at some of the possible questions you might be asked, during your exit interview, here below are a few exit interview tips to keep in mind.

Keep a level head. Maintain your concentration on the task at hand. Instead of talking about individuals, talk about the organization.

2. Rehearse your responses before time. Consider enlisting the help of a friend or coworker.

3. Making a record of the departure interview will assist you to recall what you and the interviewer agreed on, as well as provide you with an accurate backup if necessary.

4. Consider nonverbal cues and body language. Before the interview, take a few deep breaths and relax consciously. This will assist you in being composed and attentive during the interview. Keep your body language open, as this will make you feel more at ease.

Conclusion

You can feel more confident in your responses if you prepare and practice for the interview ahead of time. Exit interviews are typically conducted for the benefit of the employer, but they are still a fantastic time to provide meaningful feedback and resolve any differences or difficulties.

Give the most accurate responses you can during the interview. Maintain a pleasant attitude, and your previous employer may recommend you for your new position.

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