Exit interview questions, and how to answer them
Honest, specific and calm. HR asks the same handful of questions; the answers below give useful feedback without leaving anything on your file you would not want read later.
Three rules
1
The notes stay on file
Whatever you say may be read later: by HR, by your manager, in a reference check. Be honest, but say it the way you would want it read.
2
About work, not people
Processes, tools, workload, growth paths. Feedback about how work is done gets used; complaints about people get filed.
3
Serious issues go in writing
Harassment, safety or anything legal belongs in a written complaint to HR or the appropriate committee, not only a conversation on your last day.
The questions
Why are you leaving?
The same reason as your resignation letter, said a little more fully. “I’ve been offered a role with more analytics work, which is where I want to grow.” One reason, about where you are going.
Leave out: A list of everything that went wrong.
What did you like most about working here?
Something true and specific: a manager who taught you, a project, the team. It is easy to answer and it sets a calm tone for the rest.
Leave out: “Nothing much.” Even if it is close to the truth.
What could we have done better?
One or two things that are about how work is done, not about a person, with a suggestion. “New joiners would ramp up faster with a written onboarding plan; I can share what I wrote for myself.”
Leave out: Naming and blaming a colleague or your manager.
Was there anything that could have made you stay?
Answer honestly if there was, in one line: a role change, a review cycle, growth in a skill. HR uses this answer for the next person.
Leave out: A bargaining figure. You have already accepted the other offer.
How was your relationship with your manager?
Fair and factual. If it was good, say what helped. If it was hard, describe the situation, not the person: “Priorities changed often and I would have liked clearer goals.”
Leave out: Personal comments. The notes stay in your file.
Would you recommend us to a friend? Would you come back?
If yes, say so. If you are unsure, “for the right role, yes” is honest and keeps the door open.
Leave out: A flat no. Many people do return, and references are checked.
Questions people ask
Do I have to attend the exit interview?
Usually it is optional, though most companies ask. If you would rather not, a short, polite note to HR is enough. Attend if you can: it is part of leaving well.
Can what I say affect my relieving letter?
It should not, and most companies keep the two separate. Still, keep your answers calm and specific, and collect your documents through the normal process.
Should I be completely honest?
Honest, yes; complete, not necessarily. Share the feedback that can help the team, phrased about work and process. You do not have to share where you are going or what they are paying you.
After the last day: your documents
The emails to HR for your relieving letter, experience letter and full and final settlement.
General guidance. The example phrasing is illustrative.