Q. Exit Interview Etiquette: I’m leaving a company I’ve been with for three years next week. I have my exit interview scheduled, and I’m not sure how to answer the questions on the form I’ve been given. My department has had an almost 100 percent turnover rate in the past few months (when I leave, there will be no employee that has worked here for more than four months), and people have left for good reasons. However, I feel like every time I’ve tried to address said issues, I’ve been met with resentment. I’ve become close with the employees left behind and want the department to be better for them. But I don’t want to beat a dead horse/burn any bridges (the problem is management).
A: Given what you describe, the horse is dead and the bridge is on fire, and anyone who hasn’t ridden out of town better start looking for another way out. I hope it hasn’t escaped management’s notice that everyone is fleeing. Whatever is going on, however, the company seems oblivious, so I don’t think your parting commentary will have any effect. I would stay as neutral as possible, and emphasize your appreciation for the opportunities you have been given. Then if you hear of any openings at your new place, flag the colleagues you’ve left behind.
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The Principle of Least Interest: He who cares least about a relationship, controls it.
I've worked for people who were difficult to work for, and who were routinely cussed out by current and former employees.
I told them that I really enjoyed working with them, I appreciated the opportunity, and I learned a lot.
These people officially never gave a reference beyond "dates of employment", but they said good things -- at length -- about me when my (now) current employer called them before hiring me.
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The Principle of Least Interest: He who cares least about a relationship, controls it.
I've only had one exit interview, ever b/c there is only one time in my life I quit a job just to quit with no new job in sight. I was brutally honest.
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LawyerLady
I can explain it to you, but I can't understand it for you.
well, wished them good luck as they were damned well going to need it--they'd managed to run off several other people as talented as myself and a couple that were moreso--that if they really were interested in the viability of their business they should employ a mirror and have a look at the single greatest threat to their success--but for jeopardizing the security of my staff would have told the owners long ago to kiss my ass but, as i'd been tardy in that regard, they could do so now
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" the only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing. "--edmund burke
I think Exit interviews are stupid. They really don't care.
This. Just smile, nod and be glad you escaped with your soul.
Yes, that is the best course usually. And, it really doesn't help to go and tell them what you really think anyway because if it is a dysfunctional workplace, it is already evident. And, so laying it on them won't change a thing. The best recourse is to try to leave on good terms if at all possible. And, you never know, the company could get bought out and a bunch of the instigators fired and it could become an option down the road.
