Here are five tips for getting your old job back.
In 2021, the Great Resignation marked the largest exodus of workers from their jobs in US history. Over 47 million Americans voluntarily quitting their jobs.
Two years later, many of those same workers admit the grass isn’t greener and that they would consider returning to pre-COVID employers. If you’re one of those 47 million Americans and you want your job back, you may be in luck because 95% of managers say they are open to hiring “boomerang employees” who left during the mass exit.
While that’s a very optimistic number, gaining back your former company’s and manager’s trust may be challenging. Here are five tips for getting your old job back.
1. Reflect on your departure and change the narrative for why you left.
This is an important first step that will be the foundation for the rest of the process. Be honest with yourself and identify any issues or misunderstandings that may have contributed to your decision to leave in the first place. For instance, 49% of employees who quit their pre-COVID jobs admit that their original reasons for leaving, like purpose, pay, and flexibility, are no longer as relevant.
Once you have some clarity for yourself, it’s important to reframe the narrative so that you can clearly communicate these factors when you have a conversation with your former employer. For example, an employee who was previously looking for remote work but discovered they prefer an in-person environment might say:
What was missing for me when I left was the flexibility that remote work provides, and while I knew I would miss the company, I wanted to prioritize flexibility. Now having worked from home during an important age for my kids, I am able and excited to come back to the office, and know that I prefer being able to collaborate and interact with my team in person… I’m now more excited than ever for the opportunity to enjoy the office, knowing first-hand that remote work isn’t for me.
2. Request a meeting with your former supervisor or manager.
This is likely the most intimidating part of getting your job back, but it’s also the most crucial. When requesting a meeting, be clear about your intentions and express your eagerness to discuss the potential to return back to your old role. Clearly communicate your willingness to address any concerns they may have and demonstrate the narrative shift from tip one.
3. Once you have the meeting, showcase the new skills you have.
It’s advantageous to show your manager why you are more valuable now than when you left. Maybe you gained more experience with a certain software or acquired a new skill. Whatever it is, clearly articulate how it can contribute to your value as an employee. This demonstrates growth and even frames your departure as mutually beneficial.
While I was gone, I went onto double [company’s] social media audience using data-driven campaign strategies, effective content creation, and comprehensive social media analytics. I would love to have the opportunity to bring this experience to the table here.
4. Highlight what you like about the company and your role.
Without being disingenuous, remind the employer of what you truly enjoyed about your role or the company at large. Discussing what you found enjoyable demonstrates to the employer that you’re not just looking for any job but are genuinely invested in the tasks and responsibilities associated with your former position. You can also use this as an opportunity to showcase successful projects or notable achievements you accomplished during your time in the role.
5. Reconnect with former colleagues.
Last but not least, reconnect with old coworkers. Your former colleagues can serve as valuable allies if you take time to foster the relationship. Reach out to an employee in your department and ask them to meet for a coffee or hop on a call.
Not only can rebuilding relationships get you valuable insight from the inside, it also demonstrates your commitment to the company. Most managers know that team chemistry helps yield superior financial performance, customer satisfaction, productivity, and employee engagement, so make it known that you intend to be a source of positivity in the workplace that promotes the company’s success as well as general well-being and morale.
If you’re looking to get your old job back, you’re not alone. Regaining your former company’s trust is a delicate process, but it’s achievable through clear communication that reshapes how you and your company view your exit and demonstrates your value to the company despite your departure. If you follow the tips from above, you’re well on your way to becoming a successful boomerang employee.
