How to Deal With Exit Interviews

Yes, you must be wondering what exactly is an exit interview. Never attended an exit interview? Well, an exit interview is the opposite of a job interview. An exit interview is an interview conducted by the organization of a departing employee. These interviews are generally conducted by a neutral department within the company like the Human Resources Department. If the interview is conducted by a neutral party, the departing employee would be more candid in answering questions about the company and stating the reasons for his or her departure.

Exit interviews are conducted mainly to find out the reasons for the employee's departure. These interviews also help an organization in assessing their working conditions and in forming new policies to retain their present and future employees. Some of the most popular questions asked in an exit interview are:
 

• Primary reason for leaving
• Most satisfying aspect of your job
• Least satisfying aspect of your job
• Was training at job adequate
• Were you happy with the pay and incentives
• About your supervisors
• How you feel about the company and what you like and dislike about the company
• Did you face any discrimination in the company
• Would you join the company again
• Your overall opinion about the company

These questions, though quite easy and straightforward, require astute answers so that they are not insulting or degrading to the company's reputation. Here are some pointers which you should keep in mind if you ever have to face an exit interview.
 

• Preparation before appearing for the interview is very important. An exit interview is as important as a recruitment interview. Decide what you will say in the interview beforehand to avoid any misunderstandings later.
• Do not use derogatory remarks against the company, your employers or your colleagues. If you are dissatisfied with someone in the company, explain that problem in the form of a situation rather than targeting that particular person.
• Exit interview is the time when you can actually share your thoughts and opinions about the company. Whatever experience or knowledge you have gained in your job, you can transfer it to your employers.
• Be calm and composed. It is just like any other interview so just relax and answer the questions as truthfully as possible without degrading anyone.

Appearing in exit interviews is not compulsory in all organizations but if you ever have to face one you should be aware of the do's and don'ts of such interviews.