Factors to Consider Before Going Back to a Former Employer
Deciding whether to return to a previous job requires careful consideration of various factors, including alignment with the company’s values, improved salary offers, promising career growth opportunities, and a favorable work environment.
Understanding the “Boomerang Employee” Phenomenon
The concept of a “boomerang employee” refers to an individual who returns to a company they previously left. This trend has gained traction as more professionals seek better work conditions, a healthier environment, or higher positions within familiar organizations.
Reasons for Returning to a Former Job
- Alignment with Company Values: If a former employer’s culture, processes, and social responsibility resonate with your personal values, it may be an attractive option to return.
- Career Advancement: Returning to a company can provide opportunities for higher-level positions, allowing you to leverage the maturity and experience gained during your time away.
- Improved Work Environment: If you left due to a toxic work environment, returning might offer a more pleasant and supportive atmosphere.
Considerations Before Returning
Manuel González Ramírez, a business and human resources consultant, advises evaluating your needs before rejoining a former employer. He emphasizes that returning without any improvements could negatively impact your career trajectory.
Conflicting Departure
Antonio López, CEO of Vuca and an HR expert, notes that salary is often a reason for leaving. However, a less-than-ideal work environment in a new job might prompt a return, especially if the returning employee can secure mental peace and enjoy their work.
Benefits for Employers
Hiring former employees, or “boomerang employees,” offers several advantages to companies. These benefits include:
- Reduced Adaptation Time: Familiarity with the company culture and processes allows former employees to integrate more quickly.
- Lower Hiring Costs: Rehiring reduces the expenses associated with recruiting and training new staff.
- Improved Talent Retention: Companies can capitalize on the experience and skills acquired by former employees during their time away.
Success Stories of Boomerang Employees
Companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft have successfully integrated boomerang employees by establishing programs that facilitate their return. These organizations recognize the value of previous experience and learnings gained elsewhere.
Addressing Talent Shortages
The scarcity of skilled professionals in various sectors has led many companies to hire former employees. According to a ManpowerGroup survey, 71% of global workers would return to their previous employer if better working conditions were offered.
Clarity on Professional Purpose
Having a clear professional purpose and understanding your career direction is crucial before deciding to return to a former job. Manuel González Ramírez recommends that employees consider their long-term goals and how they align with potential job opportunities.
Challenging Professional Context
Be cautious of returning due to a difficult professional context that might lead to unfavorable conditions or exploitation by the employer.
Emotional Analysis
Antonio López advises conducting an emotional analysis to understand whether you genuinely miss the stability, team, or challenges associated with your previous job. This self-reflection will help you make an informed decision.
Investigation
Research the reasons behind your departure from the former employer. It’s possible that some issues have been resolved, making a return more appealing.
