Should you be honest in your stay interview?

11 Comments

1. AnonymousOctober 12,2023 at 5:44PM UTC

   Either be honest or say nothing at all. What would you gain by lying?

2. AnonymousOctober 13,2023 at 10:04PM UTC

   So they don’t replace me while I’m considering other options.

3. AnonymousOctober 16,2023 at 10:18AM UTC

   I wouldn't recommend stating that you considering other options - although your company shouldn't be asking it either. You should be honest about what keeps you there (positives) and where you think the company can improve as an employer. At my company, we try to use any less than positive feedback as a way to improve.

4. AnonymousOctober 18,2023 at 1:16PM UTC

   I said be honest or say nothing at all. The usual purpose of a stay interview is to determine why people are leaving. If you have nothing to add out of fear of retaliation, don't make up thinks, just say that you aren't comfortable responding or that you wish to decline participating.

5. AnonymousOctober 12,2023 at 6:57PM UTC

   Don't lie.

   As an aside, I despise the liars that get ahead on false pretenses when the honest and dedicated are held back.

6. AnonymousOctober 12,2023 at 7:29PM UTC

   Stay interviews are done for a purpose, why wouldn't you. It's an opportunity for companies to hear their work force in a clear path that is not a pulse survey with only provided choices. Being authentic and saying 'being honest' really are presented differently in a professional setting. Perhaps get in that mindset.

7. AnonymousOctober 12,2023 at 9:23PM UTC

   The thought that you would CONSIDER lying is a problem.

8. AnonymousOctober 13,2023 at 11:12AM UTC

   Yes, and the problem is likely with the organization itself. In most cases when employees are lying in situations like this, it's because they don't feel like they can be honest. Maybe they're worried about retribution, or are just pretty sure they aren't going to be heard.

9. AnonymousOctober 13,2023 at 11:15AM UTC

   Valid point!!

10. AnonymousOctober 13,2023 at 10:10PM UTC

    Do you always tell your employer that you are thinking about interviewing with other companies ?

11. AnonymousOctober 16,2023 at 6:06PM UTC

    If the question is - should I tell them I am looking at / pursuing other opportunities either inside or outside the company then I think you may have to spin the answer. I wouldn't say you are looking or are not looking. I'd focus on what you want - what things you like about your company / role, and what things you wish were a bit different but in a positive way. Example - let's say you are working well over 40 hours per week and would prefer not to. I'd say then you go in with a statement that you'd like to reduce the overtime and possibly some suggestions on how - more automation, training on a software that would allow you to work faster, etc. If no suggestions, then just state that. I really would like to get work-life balance and reduce the required hours down closer to 40 and have been thinking on how to do that but have not come up with any viable ideas - do you, as my manager have any suggestions, etc. Take your concerns and say them as honestly as you can but in a way that is perceived as helpful. Perhaps this will help you make your decision as to whether to stay or go. They might surprise you or they may show you that nothing will change and make you feel better about going. Good luck.