Tips for a professional exit interview
For job seekers, omitting important information from a resume can have serious consequences. For employees who have left the company and already got one foot out the door, brutal honesty no longer makes sense, especially in an exit interview. The hard truth is that many companies rarely respond to suggestions or complaints from workers who are leaving.” So don't play the big hero on the way out." If you really want to make a difference, be a hero while you're still here. In this article, we have listed three points for you on what you should and shouldn't say in your exit interview.
Cancel interview
If you work for a large company with thousands of employees, politely declining your exit interview probably won't attract attention. This is especially true for companies that handle such interviews at the last minute and as a mere formality.
It is certainly different with smaller and medium-sized companies, where you should definitely make the appointment so as not to tear down all bridges behind you.
If you really still have something on your mind, invite your former boss for a coffee two or three months later. After you leave the organization, it must be easier to speak openly and honestly.
Don't make yourself vulnerable
No matter how awful the job was or how badly you were treated, use the exit interview to focus on the positive aspects of the job. The interviewer will also ask you how the company and your manager can improve.
Since you can't win anything at this point, a better strategy is to switch to the professional benefits of your new job. Focusing on the future can keep you from sounding like a bitter whiner. Why you were dissatisfied with your old job is conveyed indirectly by highlighting the reasons that drew you to the new position.
For example, you can explain that it wasn't an easy decision, but that the new opportunity was just too good to turn down.
If you're forced to voice criticism, throw a few softballs. For example, mention that you prefer a culture that's a bit riskier. Stick to vague broad cultural reasons. Otherwise, the interviewer may become defensive or respond with a counteroffer, which can put you in an awkward position.
Avoid finger pointing
Remember, no matter what you're told, any negative feedback you give will likely get back to your boss or co-workers. We live in a very small world, so avoid any kind of frustration and no-name blame. You never know when you might end up reconnecting with a former teammate or boss. You don't want gossip being repeated around the office, or your boss or co-workers being accused of inappropriate behavior. It's definitely best for you to keep the initial interview productive and professional since you've already decided on a new challenge.
