The Importance of Exit Interviews

12/13/2023

Turnover is inevitable in every industry, and when employees leave, it’s important to conduct exit interviews to learn how to retain employees, improve engagement and drive productivity. 

In the facilities management industry, surveys show that 59 percent of facility managers said they conducted exit interviews, but only 41 percent acted upon the feedback they received and made changes based on the information. However, conducting exit interviews could reduce turnover rates and strengthen the workforce. 

Although there are multiple ways a company can garner unofficial feedback from former employees, including through LinkedIn and Glassdoor, official exit interviews can help reinforce the employment relationship’s positive aspects in a way that builds the company’s reputation and esteem with future employees, says Jim Turner, senior project manager and Building Operating Management Facility Influencer.  

Turner says some questions that should be asked in exit interviews include why the employee sought a change, what good experiences the employee had at the company, what the company can improve or change, and what specific issues or processes about the job function or department need to be addressed. 

“My approach to exit interviews is to get to the bottom of why the employee is leaving – hopefully, their responses give insight into steps that can be taken to try and retain employees in the future,” Turner says. “Although it is not always the case, there is usually something to celebrate about the employee’s time with us, and the interview can provide one last time to offer that feedback and show appreciation.” 

He adds that following the exit interview, the manager should prioritize implementing what was learned, especially when areas for improvement have been identified. If feedback isn’t considered, managers risk more employee departures and missed opportunities. 

“The interviews do have a cost, so conducting them without the intention of considering the feedback seems a waste – the time and funds could be used more productively on something else,” Turner says. 

Ashley Haley is a freelance writer with Advantage Informatics.