There’s nothing quite like that moment when someone you really value leaves. The ones who are talented, dependable, and genuinely make a difference. That’s what we call “regrettable attrition”.
The kind of turnover that really hurts because it’s more than just a role to fill, it’s a real loss for the team and the business.
So why does it happen? Often, it’s not about money. Sure, pay matters, but more often people leave because they feel stuck, undervalued, or misaligned with the role or the culture. Sometimes it’s a lack of development opportunities. Sometimes it’s poor communication or feeling invisible to leadership. And yes, sometimes it’s personal, and you can’t always prevent it but often, you can.
From my experience, here’s what can make a difference:
Hire for fit, not just skills
It’s easy to focus on technical expertise, but culture fit, or better, culture add, matters just as much. People who align with the values of the business are more likely to stick around and thrive.
Be clear from the start
Many departures happen because expectations weren’t set properly. Be upfront about the role, growth opportunities, and what success looks like. It saves everyone headaches later.
Invest in development
People want to grow. Offering training, career progression, and regular feedback shows that you value them and see them as more than just a job title.
Build real relationships
Regular check-ins, honest conversations, and showing you genuinely care can make a huge difference. People don’t leave companies, they leave managers.
Listen and act
Feedback isn’t just for exit interviews. Ask for it regularly, and actually do something with it. Showing that you listen and respond can stop someone from leaving before it comes to that point.
Regrettable attrition stings, but it’s also an opportunity to reflect and improve. My goal as a recruiter isn’t just to fill roles, it’s to create matches that last. The right people, with the right support, in the right place. Keeping great people isn’t just good for business, it’s good for everyone.