Created by:
Sabrinthia Donnelly
A well-run stay interview helps you uncover what’s really going on with your employees before it’s too late. Our stay interview template gives you everything you need to make those conversations meaningful, structured, and action-driven.
What is a stay interview template?
A stay interview template is your guide for having honest, forward-looking conversations with your team before they consider leaving.
Unlike exit interviews (too late) or performance reviews (too formal), stay interviews are relaxed, open conversations designed to explore:
- What keeps employees engaged?
- What causes frustration or burnout?
- What support do they need to keep growing?
Our template includes an easy-to-follow stay interview format with sample prompts, timing tips, and even a few starter phrases to keep things comfortable and productive.
What’s inside?
This stay interview template isn’t just a set of questions. It’s a full, flexible framework to help you run effective stay interviews without overthinking it.
Here’s what’s included:
- A simple explanation of what a stay interview is and how it works.
- A ready-to-use stay interview format that keeps things clear and focused.
- A manager prep checklist to help you feel confident going in.
- 15+ proven stay interview questions across categories like motivation, growth, and blockers.
- Guidance on how to follow up (and turn insights into action).
- A customizable worksheet for capturing feedback during the conversation.
Who is it for?
- People managers who want to build trust and reduce surprise exits.
- HR teams looking to embed stay interviews into their employee experience.
- People leaders aiming to improve retention using feedback, not guesswork.
It’s perfect for remote, hybrid, and in-person teams. And if you're already running a stay survey, this takes things a step further with real conversations and human connection.
How to use the template
- Schedule the conversation: Block 30–45 minutes. Give a heads-up and set expectations.
- Use great questions: Pick 4–6 from the included list of stay interview questions for employees. Topics cover motivation, growth, and what could be better.
- Keep it casual (but thoughtful): Remember to make eye contact and allow space for silence. People open up when it doesn’t feel like a formality.
- Follow through: Within a couple of weeks, circle back. Even a small update shows you’re serious.
- Spot the patterns: Share common themes (not names!) with HR or leadership. Use what you learn to shape better retention strategies, team culture, and growth plans.
This stay interview template helps you:
- Build better manager-employee relationships.
- Reduce attrition by surfacing red flags early.
- Support employee growth and wellbeing.
- Create a more responsive workplace culture.
It’s simple, scalable, and easy to roll out - whether you're a team of 10 or 1,000.
Download your stay interview template
If you’re not already a member, simply sign up for our Insider plan (it’s free!) and refresh this page to access your template.
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