What's a Stay Interview and How Is It Different From an Exit Interview?
TL;DR: A stay interview happens while you are still employed and asks what would make you stay long-term; an exit interview happens after you have already decided to leave and asks why. Stay interviews are proactive retention tools; exit interviews are retrospective feedback.
The short answer, with evidence
Stay interviews are a documented HR retention practice, distinct from exit interviews, used by managers to identify flight risk and address concerns before an employee resigns rather than after.
Interview type comparison
| Interview type | Timing | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Stay interview | Before any resignation | Ongoing retention check-in |
| Exit interview | After resignation is final | Retrospective feedback |
| Both | — | Manager or HR-led conversation about job satisfaction |
Step-by-step
- If asked for a stay interview, be honest about what is working and what is not — it is a genuine chance to fix issues.
- Come with 2-3 concrete asks, such as growth path, workload, or pay, rather than vague complaints.
- In an exit interview, stay professional and constructive — burning bridges can affect references.
- Focus exit interview feedback on process and systemic issues, not personal grievances.
- Use either conversation to clarify what you would want from your next role.
FAQ
Are stay interviews common? They are a growing retention practice, especially at companies actively trying to reduce turnover.
Do I have to be fully honest in an exit interview? Be constructive and professional — honest feedback is useful, but personal attacks rarely help you.
Can a stay interview lead to a raise or promotion? It can — it is specifically designed to surface what would keep you engaged and staying.
By Pinal Dave · Last updated: 2026-07-26