A return to work interview is a formal meeting that takes place after an employee has been absent from work. The purpose of a return to work meeting is to understand the reason for the employee’s absence, identify whether it is an ongoing issue, and determine if there is any support the employer can provide.

Return to work interviews also allow employers to identify patterns of employee absence and determine whether the employee has triggered the company’s absence management policy. These meetings are usually conducted by HR professionals or, in the absence of an HR consultant, by a line manager. There are many benefits to conducting effective return to work interviews.

Reduce Absenteeism

When employees know they will need to answer to someone after an absence, they are less likely to be absent.  Return to work interviews can act as a deterrent for being absent from work, as well as reducing absenteeism through discussions to help improve the employee’s sickness record.

Duty of Care and Employee Wellbeing

A return to work interview provides an opportunity to discuss an employee’s health and wellbeing, including both physical and mental health. Employers can demonstrate their duty of care by identifying reasonable adjustments or support measures that help employees return to work safely and productively.

Enhance Employee Relationships

Conducting return to work interviews on a one-to-one basis shows employees that they are valued. Taking the time to ask about wellbeing and listen to concerns helps build trust, strengthen working relationships, and create a supportive and open working environment. They will feel like there is a safe place for them to open up.

Questions to Ask During a Return to Work Interview

A return to work interview should be a supportive and professional discussion—not an interrogation. The goal is to understand the absence and support the employee’s successful return to work. Common return to work interview questions include:

• What was the reason for your absence?
  
  
• Are you fit and ready to return to work?
  
  
• Have you spoken to a doctor or medical professional?
  
  
• Do you require any workplace adjustments or support?
  
  

If an employee has triggered the absence policy or there is a clear pattern of absence (for example, frequent absences on Mondays), the return to work interview provides an opportunity to explore this sensitively. For example:

• You have triggered the absence policy, and further absence may lead to formal action. Is there anything we should be aware of or support you with?
  
  
• We’ve noticed a pattern of absence on Mondays—can you help us understand if there’s an underlying issue?

At Inspired CVs, we support employers with return to work interviews, absence management, and ongoing HR advice and support. Contact us today to find out more or book time with an HR consultant to ensure your return to work processes are fair, compliant, and effective.