If you’ve begun the search for a new job or given your two-week notice already, it’s likely that you’ll need to prepare yourself for an exit interview at some point. While an exit interview is a formality that’s put in place by most organizations, it’s a step that is often beneficial for both you and your employer as you prepare for the next step in your career. Whether your exit interview is approaching, or you’d like to stay one step ahead, we’re sharing the insights you need to close this chapter of your career on a high note.
Make the Time
While the exit interview is often a formality with most employers, we highly recommend taking the time to discuss your reason for seeking a new opportunity. This not only shows respect for your current employer but helps to ensure each box is checked from a human resources standpoint as you begin your departure. In most organizations, the HR team will schedule a time for the exit interview meeting to occur. Once giving your two weeks, we recommend checking in to ensure this meeting is in fact on the books so the opportunity is not missed.
Prepare Your Thoughts
Before the exit interview takes place, we recommend jotting down a few notes to help guide you through the conversation, as you may have several points you’d like to make as you eye the exit. This is a helpful time for you to not only provide honest feedback, but also to leave your current position on a high note. As a reminder, an exit interview is not a time to air all your grievances, but rather a time to share constructive criticism should you have it.
I’m Leaving Because…
While it may be uncomfortable, being honest about your decision to leave is going to be key. Whether you’re no longer growing, you feel bored, or an opportunity too good to pass down came along, lead the conversation with honesty. Per our Compensation & Benefits Job Market Report, only 36% of respondents stated that they were happy in their current roles, so if there was a pain point pushing you to leave, this would be the most opportune time to share that feedback.
Highlight the Star Players
Whether you’ve been in your role for 6 months or 6 years, it’s important to highlight the team members and/or teams that made your day-to-day better. Did you have a helpful training team that made onboarding easier? Did your boss help shape you into the employee you are today? Share it! This information not only allows the organization to grow in the right direction, but also helps your manager and the people you worked most closely with grow as managers and leaders within their own careers.
Provide Feedback, Respectfully
Lastly, organizations need constructive feedback as they grow, and as an employee, your feedback is some of the most beneficial. Could there have been better access to learning and development? Are there areas where the company is failing to stay up to date? Is there enough flexibility? If you’ve got organizational feedback that you feel could be helpful to incoming employees, now is the time to speak up. Sharing this information in a respectful and professional way in this setting shows that you not only care about the organization but also about the direction the company may be headed in.
Moving Forward
Now that you’ve got a better understanding of what to prepare for in your exit interview, you’re one step closer to the exciting new opportunities that lie ahead! Leaving your almost past employer with a fantastic final impression will make you stand out as an employee and will help you continue to grow within your career. Looking for additional career insights? Explore our blog for more!