Stay Conversations are proactive conversations to understand what keeps employees engaged, why they stay, and what might cause them to leave. These conversations focus on their experience and motivations, not their performance. These are not exit interviews or performance reviews.
When to Use Them?
Conduct formal stay conversations every quarter or bi-annually.
Regular 1-on-1s: pull 1-2 cards per meeting
After major milestones or changes
When you sense disengagement
How to Use the Cards
Pick 3-5 cards for a formal stay conversation, or 1-2 for regular check-ins.
Ask the question, then listen more than you talk.
Take notes on what matters to each person.
These conversations are designed to help you understand their motivations and what makes them want to stay. Avoid getting defensive or trying to fix anything in the moment.

