City explores exit interview practices to improve employee retention strategies

San Jose City Council members engaged in a productive discussion on March 25, 2025, focusing on employee retention and diversity within the city's workforce. A key highlight was the announcement of an increase in police department hiring, with the current number of recruits rising to 675, including five women, marking a significant step towards enhancing diversity in law enforcement.

City Manager Jennifer Schembri provided an update on the hiring progress, emphasizing the importance of diversity across various departments. This initiative aligns with the council's ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive work environment. The council members expressed their commitment to improving employee experiences and reducing turnover rates, which have been a concern, with a reported 30% turnover rate mentioned during the meeting.

The discussion also touched on the lack of a standardized exit interview process across city departments. Council members raised the importance of gathering feedback from departing employees to better understand retention challenges. While some departments conduct exit interviews, there is no citywide protocol in place. The council acknowledged the need for a more consistent approach to collecting employee feedback throughout their tenure, rather than solely at the point of departure.

Council members expressed optimism about the direction the city is heading, with a focus on fostering a supportive workplace culture. They highlighted the necessity of ongoing conversations to address employee concerns and improve overall job satisfaction. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further explore strategies for enhancing employee retention and ensuring that San Jose remains a desirable place to work for all city employees.