What are the most effective exit interview questions to ask and why?

1 The purpose of exit interviews

Exit interviews are not just a formality or a way to say goodbye to your employees. They are a chance to understand why they are leaving, what they liked and disliked about working for you, and how you can improve your workplace culture, policies, and practices. By asking the right questions, you can gain insights into your strengths and weaknesses as an employer, identify areas for improvement, and reduce turnover.

2 The types of exit interview questions

Exit interviews can involve different types of questions that serve various purposes. Open-ended questions allow employees to express their opinions and feelings in their own words. Closed-ended questions require employees to choose from a set of options, such as yes/no, agree/disagree, or rating scales. Behavioral questions ask for specific examples of situations or events that occurred during their employment and how they reacted or handled them. This can help you understand the impact of your policies and practices on your employees' performance and well-being.

4 How to conduct exit interviews

Conducting exit interviews in a respectful, productive, and beneficial manner is important for receiving quality feedback. Plan ahead and schedule the interview at least a week before the employee's last day. Choose a comfortable and private setting with no interruptions. Dress appropriately, greet the employee warmly, and thank them for their time and contribution. Listen attentively to the employee's feedback without interrupting or judging them. Show empathy for their perspective and acknowledge their emotions. Focus on the positive aspects of their experience and encourage them to share suggestions for improvement. End the interview on a positive note, expressing gratitude for their work and offering any assistance or resources they need for their transition. Follow up with a thank-you note or email, and keep in touch until their departure.

5 The benefits of exit interviews

Exit interviews are beneficial for employers, employees, and the organization as a whole. They can help retain valuable employees by identifying and addressing their satisfaction and engagement. Furthermore, exit interviews can aid in attracting new talent by showcasing the employer’s commitment to employee feedback. Moreover, they can uncover the strengths and weaknesses of policies and practices, leading to improved organizational performance and culture. Finally, exit interviews can maintain positive relationships with former employees who may become advocates or referrals.