Stay Interview

A Stay Interview is a structured conversation between a manager and an existing employee aimed at understanding what keeps the employee engaged and what might cause them to leave. Unlike exit interviews, stay interviews are proactive and focused on retention.

Topics typically include job satisfaction, career goals, workplace culture, recognition, and suggestions for improvement. These interviews help organizations identify risks of turnover and take action before employees decide to leave.

Stay interviews build trust, improve communication, and support employee-centric retention strategies.

✅ Common use: “Managers now conduct annual stay interviews to strengthen relationships and reduce unexpected resignations.”

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Why are Stay Interviews important?

Stay Interviews are important because they help organizations retain top talent by addressing concerns before they lead to turnover. They provide insights into employee satisfaction and can guide improvements in workplace culture and practices.

How often should Stay Interviews be conducted?

Stay Interviews should be conducted regularly, typically once or twice a year, depending on the organization's needs and the employee's role. They can also be scheduled when there are significant changes in the organization or team.

Who should conduct Stay Interviews?

Stay Interviews are usually conducted by the employee's direct manager, as they are in the best position to act on the feedback and have a direct impact on the employee's work environment and satisfaction.

What questions are typically asked in a Stay Interview?

Questions in a Stay Interview often focus on what the employee enjoys about their job, what motivates them, any challenges they face, and suggestions for improvement. Examples include: "What do you look forward to when you come to work each day?" and "What would make your job more satisfying?"

How should the information from Stay Interviews be used?

The information gathered from Stay Interviews should be used to make informed decisions about improving the work environment, addressing employee concerns, and enhancing job satisfaction. It should also be shared with HR to identify broader trends and develop retention strategies.

What are the benefits of conducting Stay Interviews?

Conducting Stay Interviews can lead to increased employee engagement, reduced turnover, and a better understanding of what employees value in their roles. It also fosters open communication and trust between employees and management.

How do Stay Interviews differ from Exit Interviews?

Stay Interviews focus on understanding and improving the current employee experience to prevent turnover, while Exit Interviews are conducted when an employee is leaving to understand the reasons behind their departure and identify areas for improvement.

🧠 Suggested readings

Want to build on your knowledge of Stay Interview? These articles cover essential strategies and advanced tips to help you deepen your understanding and apply best practices with confidence.

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📚 Suggested books

Explore these recommended books to broaden your knowledge and deepen your expertise in Stay Interview. Each title provides practical insights and proven strategies to help you advance with confidence.

"The Stay Interview: A Manager's Guide to Keeping the Best and Brightest" by Richard P. Finnegan

This book provides managers with a practical guide to conducting stay interviews, which are designed to help retain top talent by understanding their needs and concerns. It offers strategies and questions to help managers engage employees and reduce turnover.

"Stay Interviews for Engagement and Retention" by Richard P. Finnegan

This book focuses on using stay interviews as a tool to boost employee engagement and retention. It provides insights into how to conduct effective stay interviews and use the information gathered to improve workplace culture and employee satisfaction.

"The Stay Interview: How to Keep Your Best Employees" by Richard P. Finnegan

A comprehensive guide on how to implement stay interviews in your organization to keep your best employees. The book includes practical advice, real-world examples, and step-by-step instructions to help managers understand and address employee concerns.