Exit Interview Questions that Actually Matter

Exit interviews might seem like a formality—after all, the employee is already on their way out. So why should you bother listening? The truth is, a well-conducted exit interview can offer a goldmine of insights to improve your organization.

5 Great Exit Interview Questions

Here are five carefully chosen exit interview questions that I’ve used in the past that have helped to gain meaningful feedback.

Exit Interview Question #1: What prompted your decision to leave, and was there a specific event or factor that influenced your choice?

• This question helps identify common reasons for employee turnover and uncovers specific incidents or trends that may be driving departures.

Exit Interview Question #2: Were you given the tools, resources, and support needed to perform your job effectively?

• It’s a great way to find out if employees felt adequately equipped, revealing potential gaps in resources, support, or training.

Exit Interview Question #3: How would you describe the culture here, and did it influence your decision to leave?

• Gaining cultural insights helps evaluate whether the company’s values, environment, and team dynamics are conducive to retention. Probe further if they mention factions within the culture – learn more about the nuances between locations, managers or teams.

Exit Interview Question #4: What specifically did you enjoy most about your role, and what would you change about the job if you could?

• By understanding what employees appreciated and what frustrated them, you can better shape future roles and improve employee satisfaction.

Exit Interview Question #5: Is there anything we could have done differently to retain you?

• This direct question addresses potential retention efforts and can provide actionable feedback for improving engagement and loyalty.

Your time is valuable, and if you’re asking generic exit interview questions, you might not think it’s worth it. By using focused questions like the ones above, you’ll collect actionable insights that can enhance the work environment, improve processes, and ultimately reduce employee turnover. Exit interviews don’t have to be a waste of time—when done right, they’re an opportunity for organizational, team and manager growth.

Pro Tip: When an employee leaves voluntarily, make sure to part on a positive note – you never know when your paths may cross again.