Exit Interview Questions

Introduction

Exit interviews (the interviews you have with outgoing staff) are really important, but you only get as much out of them as you’re willing to put in.

Let’s face it – they can be awkward for all kinds of reasons, regardless of why a person is leaving. But for a healthy organisation, they’re a great opportunity to collect unfiltered feedback – and to ensure a positive ongoing relationship with a former staff member.

So make the exiting staff member feel safe by being clear the conversation is confidential – remember to focus both on what your organisation is doing brilliantly as well as where it should improve; and always take detailed notes.

Suggestions

Here are some suggestions to get you going – but remember to ask follow-up questions, to make sure you’re really digging into the most important details!

1. What has been your favourite thing about working here/what did you enjoy the most?
2. What was your least favourite thing about working here/what did you enjoy the least?
3. What was the best thing about your job? What made you feel most satisfied?
4. What was the worst thing about your job? What made you feel least satisfied?
5. What would you change about your job?
6. Did your job match your expectations when you took the role?
7. Based on your experience with us, what do you think it takes to succeed here?
8. Did any company policies or procedures (or any other obstacles) make your job more difficult?
9. Would you consider working again for us in the future? Would you recommend a role with us to your friends?
10. Finally, are there any other comments that you would like to make about our organisation or how we operate?

Explore Further

• Sample Exit Interview Form, Nonprofit Risk Management Center
• How to conduct an exit interview: Template and examples
• Exit Interviews, NH Center for Nonprofits
• Six simple steps to conduct a better exit interview, Not for Profit People
• Closing Time: Effective Exit Interviews, Nonprofit Risk Management Center
• How Exit Interviews Benefit Your Nonprofit, Consultants for Good
• Tips on How to Give and Receive Feedback
• Radical Human Resources Policies, Guides and Templates
• Policy Bank: Policy and Procedure Templates for Not for Profit Organisations
• Navigating Turnover in Activist Groups
• Movements and leaders have seasons – it’s important to know which one you are in
• Work Less: You’ll Get More Done
• Group Strategies to Prevent Stress and Burnout
• Designing Motivational Work for Staff and Volunteers