Exit Interview Form Template

Exit interviews reveal why employees leave, providing insights to improve retention and workplace culture. You'll identify patterns in turnover causes, gather honest feedback about management, and discover opportunities to enhance the employee experience.

Ask about reasons for leaving, job satisfaction, management effectiveness, compensation fairness, growth opportunities, and company culture. Include questions about what would have made them stay and recommendations for improvement.

Schedule interviews during the final week of employment, after the resignation is accepted but before the last day. This timing allows honesty without fear of repercussions while memories are fresh.

HR typically conducts exit interviews to ensure consistency and confidentiality. For small companies, a neutral manager or founder might handle them. Avoid having the departing employee's direct manager conduct the interview to encourage candor.

Aggregate data to identify trends and common themes. Share insights with leadership while maintaining individual confidentiality. Implement changes based on feedback and track whether turnover improves. Follow up with departing employees who indicated interest in returning.

You'll reduce future turnover by addressing identified issues, maintain positive relationships with departing employees who might return or refer others, and demonstrate that you value employee feedback even as they leave.