>>> The departure cost is always exponentially higher.

And yet no one is going to give you a substantial salary rise unless you sign a resignation letter.

All that questions about the reason why someone wants to leave during recruitment or exit interview are a ceremonial, and people are answering with polite bullshit.

Yes, I'm looking for a new job to get more experience, to grow, to get new challenges. Not because I want more money and we all know it is the easiest way to get it. Not because I have an idiot manager. Etc..

> Yes, I'm looking for a new job to get more experience, to grow, to get new challenges.

Indeed. There is no upside to provide any criticism or leave on a negative note. It's the other side of the coin why companies don't provide feedback after interviews, there is no upside for them. Same here. What if some coworkers start another company, or the winds change, etc. It's always better to leave on a positive note regardless of reasons.

Of course when 20% of the team leaves in 3 months "to get more experience and jump on an exciting new opportunity" it would be silly not to read between the lines.