Key Questions to Ask When Conducting Stay Interviews

It is hard to find good help, and when business managers and executives find reliable staff, it is important to take steps to keep them in place. Almost everyone has experienced the void that is left in a company when a reliable staff member leaves. In order to keep these quality employees happy, it is important to conduct stay interviews. These interviews are important because they help identify what makes the employees happy and what changes need to be made to keep them with the company. With this goal in mind, there are several important topics that should always be addressed.

What Makes the Employee Stay with the Company

While this topic might seem obvious, it is often overlooked. There are reasons why employees do not change companies. These could be geographic ties or their family’s comfort with the location; however, there are also factors within the company’s control. Finding out what the employee likes about the business should be seen as a foundation to grow and develop the company into a place that retains all of its quality employees. Figure out what these facets are. Then, build on these facets inside of the company to increase employee retention.

Thoughts of Leaving the Company

On the other hand, it is also important to probe whether or not the individual has thought about leaving. Quality employees always appreciate honesty, so it is appropriate to be upfront with this question. Ask about how frequently the employee thinks about leaving. Then, ask why these thoughts cross their mind. This is a golden opportunity to dig into any thoughts of dissatisfaction with the company. It can be hard for executives to see what is going on in the trenches. If employees know that their concerns are heard, they are more likely to stick around.

Improvements in the Workplace

In addition to voicing their concerns, employees also want to know that their suggestions are considered. Once the individual has voiced their problems, ask if he or she has any ideas regarding how to fix them. After all, this is the person that is on the front lines every day. Use these suggestions as a starting point to improve the culture within the company. The staff wants to know that their ideas are at least heard, considered, and addressed. If their opinions are valued by the company, they are more likely to stay.

Stay Interviews for Employee Retention

These interviews play an important role in keeping high-quality employees with a business. Make sure that these interviews are conducted regularly. Employees want to know that their voices are heard. This is an opportunity to show employees that they are valued.