Yes, that's exactly what it is: you will be given enough rope to hang yourself ... or to make a pretty bow. We recommend the latter.
If things had worked out for you there, you'd still be there. Even when it's downsizing, usually only some are let-go, and you were part of that "some."
As I cover in my DIFFICULT PEOPLE Internet course, please, please do not assume your supervisor really wants to know how she could have managed you better, the CEO doesn't really want to know how to run her own company, and HR is most likely doing it for a formality, and all are interested in limiting liability. This is not to say there aren't isolated instances where people in these positions would want to know ... but you have to know what you're doing. For one thing, what can you accomplish in 30-45 minutes anyway?
You can give some well-rehearsed and well-thought-through comments, if required to do so, but think it out ahead of time.
Keep in mind that you are a "lame duck." They might value your opinion ... except you are on your way out, and you immediately lose people's interest.
Also please remember you will need these people for references. Cordial goodwill is called for, and a good bit of EQ. You are going to have to account for the time you spent there in future job interviews.
My client Harriet told me about one career-sinking maneuver she had early in her career. Furious at many things, she gave her resignation, refused an exit interview, and basically stormed out the door. Imagine her surprise when the dust cleared, and she realized she was going to need a reference from someone from her former company, and she had not laid the ground work.
Other clients have told me of being asked to "name names," to comment on other people's performance and ethics, to identify "problem" employees, and other third-rail questions. These, of course, should be avoided. It's neither the time, nor the place.
Generally EIs are optional. If you choose to go, keep the following in mind from this excellent guest article.
FIVE TIPS FOR YOUR EXIT INTERVIEW
Author: Heather Eagar
Exit interviews are sometimes held at inopportune times, especially from the viewpoint of the employee when he or she is either laid off or fired. Nevertheless, they are a must for progressive companies that want to look inward for reasons for an employee's exit.
There are different viewpoints about these interviews as to the need for them in the first place.
Should the exiting employee participate in it? If yes, how will it benefit him or her?
Secondly, an exiting employee can hardly afford to ignore the fact that his or her revelations can be used against them, especially if they are in writing.
Participating In the Exit Interview Is Your Prerogative
When you are faced with the interview, you need to think carefully about what you are going to say or write, as it can jeopardize any possibility of your re-employability, if there is any. Even if you are assured that your comments will not be used against you but [rather] for company analysis, you should still be diplomatic.
Five Tips To Help You Confidently Face The Exit Interview
On the surface, exit interviews serve to help organizations to correct themselves by collecting information such as possible discrimination, lack of opportunities, etc. So, picking up the motivation behind the exit interview will help you to know how to approach one.
1. Attending Is A Courtesy: On your part, attending the exit interview is usually not mandatory. Even though you are not going to gain anything from it, you must make sure that the interview is not being used against you. If at any time you suspect this is the case, simply excuse yourself.
2. Maintain Your Composure: Maintaining your composure is critical. The questions may appear trivial, although this may not be the case when you are being laid off or fired. Treat this as your chance to make them think again (and perhaps be sorry) for having fired you.
3. Do Not Sign Papers Hastily: There will probably be more than a few documents that will need to be signed, such as acknowledgement of your resignation or separation, and receipt of your final paycheck. But if you are asked to sign anything questionable, ask for time to review them, and to read and understand the contents. Ask whether it is mandatory. Any organization can always wait for a few more days.
4. Return Any Company Property: This could be documents, keys etc, but list all of them on paper and get the interviewer to acknowledge receipt of these things.
5. Commenting On Superiors And Colleagues: Typically, these interviews are well structured and come down to the core issues. Remember, it is unnecessary for you to comment on someone (negatively) who you are not going to see for much longer.
Remember that the exit interview is probably not mandatory. If you don’t have time, or feel uncomfortable about the company's motives, just politely decline the invitation to attend.
About The Author: Heather Eagar is a former professional resume writer who is now dedicated to providing job seekers with resources and products that promote job search success from beginning to end. If you want interview tips to help you land that perfect job, go to http://www.NothingbutInterviews.com
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P.S. BE SURE AND CLEAN OFF YOUR COMPUTER. Most people know to clean out their desk, but your computer can do more damage. By this I mean emails, graphics and articles you may have saved, or anything that isn't work-related. When I assumed a new job some years ago, I was absolutely apalled at what I found on the computer. Don't let that happen to you.
If you are angry over the parting, please check in with an EQ coach. It's a good idea to maintain coaching until you are safely out the door. Anger is a good way of knowing what you want, but not for getting it. Your exit should be as gracious as your entrance, and it is an opportunity to show your integrity. Adversity reveals character and people are watching -- people who can recommend you in the future (or not).
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