You’re probably familiar with the exit interview, but stay interviews are a less popular practice that can change the game for creating a healthy company for your employees.
Instead of conducting interviews when employees already decide to leave, stay interviews are meant to help you understand what employees value most about the company and why they choose to work there. These proactive interviews can also dive into what concerns an employee may have or what change of events may cause them to search for different work.
How to Conduct a Stay Interview
While questions should be standardized and structured, the interview should be casual and conversational. They shouldn’t take up too much time either, around 30 minutes should suffice.
Begin by letting your employees know that you’re here to understand why they stay at the company and what you can do to continue to (or improve) their experience. For example:
- I want to talk to you about how your job is going and what I can do to best support you as a manager, particularly with issues in my control.
Sample Questions for a Stay Interview
Here is a list of sample questions that are beneficial during a stay interview. Remember, this is a conversation, so it shouldn’t feel scripted. Pick some of your favorites, then let the conversation be productive from there.
- What do you look forward to when you come to work each day?
- What do you like most or least about working here?
- What keeps you working here?
- If you could change something about working here, what would it be?
- What would make your job more satisfying?
- What would you like to learn here?
- What motivates or demotivates you?
Be sure to either take notes during the interview or immediately afterwards, so you don’t forget all the useful insights!
Close the Interview with a Positive Purpose
As you close your stay interview, it may be helpful to restate some of the key points your employee shared with you.
Lead Your Employees with Confidence
Whether you need to find star talent for open positions or guidance with your human resources needs, contact Expert Staffing.
