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Exit Interview Tips
Exit Interviews can be used to gather valuable information
about what does or doesn't work in your workplace, and
help pinpoint potential problem areas. Information gained
in exit interviews can also serve as valuable defenses
to employment claims. For example, if an employee who
quits voluntarily tells management in an interview of
the misconduct of other employees, that information may
be used in defense of any claim that arises from discipline
or termination of those employees.
Exit interviews may also offer opportunities to obtain
admission or concessions from terminated employees that
may be useful in defense of claims by those employees.
An employee who is being let go, for instance, might admit
or agree that his or her performance was not up to standards
during such an interview. That kind of admission, if properly
documented, can be very valuable in case of a later dispute.
Finally, and most importantly, the exit interview serves
the purpose of potentially defusing volatile situations
through improved communication. Through candid communication
about the termination, an employee is less likely to feel
that he or she has been treated unfairly, and less likely
to sue.
Following are some key things to keep in mind when conducting
exit interviews:
1. Have a witness present for all "sensitive"
interviews.
2. Keep notes of who said what, time, location, and attendees
at interview
3. Be candid about reasons for discharges.
4. Avoid disclosing information about other employees-
particularly that which pertains to the person who may
have provided "evidence" that supports the discharge
decision or other employees who may also be in the process
of being discharged.
5. Avoid negative or defamatory comments about the employee
or others.
6. Do not attribute the decision to discharge to others
in the company - make it clear that it is a company decision,
not the choice of individuals.
7. Do not waiver or seem equivocal. Avoid sending the
message that the decision could be reversed.
8. Have paperwork and paychecks arranged in advance if
the exit interview takes place on the last day of work.
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