This paper investigates the problem of retaining business school graduates
after they have completed a trainee program in a company. Often when a
company invests in training programs for young graduates, the company’s
management expects that a graduate will remain with the company for a long
time. But in some cases, the trainees decide to leave. This research shows the
different perceptions among the trainees and the company of motives or
reasons for such a decision. The main findings also indicate a significant
difference in the graduates’ preferences in the countries being compared and
suggest a list of motives that drive such decision making. Furthermore,
managerial applications are given and the possible approaches for future
discussions are suggested.