How To Ask For A Job Back

Have you ever felt that pang of regret after leaving a job? Maybe the new opportunity wasn't what you expected, or perhaps you miss the company culture and the people you worked with. It's a common feeling, and in today's dynamic job market, returning to a former employer is becoming increasingly acceptable. The idea of asking for your old job back might seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can be a viable option.

Imagine Sarah, who left her marketing position at a tech firm for a role at a startup promising rapid growth and a more significant impact. After six months, she realized the startup's environment was chaotic and lacked the structure she thrived in. She missed the collaborative spirit and stability of her previous company. Feeling uncertain, Sarah wondered if there was a way to return to her old job, a place where she knew she could excel and contribute meaningfully. This situation isn't unique to Sarah; many professionals find themselves contemplating a return to familiar territory.

The Art of the Return: How to Politely and Effectively Ask for Your Old Job Back

Asking for your old job back is a delicate process that requires careful consideration and a strategic approach. It's not simply about expressing your desire to return; it's about demonstrating how your return benefits the company. This article will guide you through the essential steps to navigate this situation successfully, from assessing your reasons for wanting to return to crafting a compelling case for your re-employment. By understanding the nuances of this process, you can increase your chances of a successful and positive outcome.

Comprehensive Overview

Is Returning to a Former Employer Common?

Returning to a former employer, often referred to as "boomeranging," is becoming increasingly common in today's job market. Several factors contribute to this trend. Firstly, the stigma once associated with leaving a job and then wanting to return has largely diminished. Companies recognize that employees leave for various reasons, and sometimes, the grass isn't always greener. Secondly, the cost of hiring and training new employees is significant. Re-hiring a former employee can save time and resources, especially if they were a valuable asset to the company.

Data suggests that boomeranging is on the rise. LinkedIn, for example, has reported an increase in boomerang employees over the past few years. This trend reflects a shift in workplace dynamics and a greater openness to employees returning to their former roles. Employees, too, are more willing to consider returning to a previous job, particularly if their new role didn't meet their expectations or if they miss the culture and benefits of their former company.

Assessing Your Reasons for Returning

Before you even consider contacting your former employer, it's crucial to honestly assess your reasons for wanting to return. Asking yourself some critical questions can help you clarify your motivations and ensure that returning is the right decision for you.

• Why did you leave in the first place? Understanding the reasons behind your initial departure is essential. Were you seeking better opportunities, a higher salary, or a different work environment? Have those factors changed?
• What has changed since you left? Consider whether the issues that led you to leave have been resolved. Has the company culture improved, or have new opportunities emerged that align with your career goals?
• Are you running from something or running to something? This is a critical distinction. Are you primarily motivated by dissatisfaction with your current job, or are you genuinely excited about the prospect of returning to your former company?
• Do you genuinely miss the job and the company? Reflect on what you valued about your previous role. Was it the work itself, the people you worked with, the company culture, or the opportunities for growth?
• Have you acquired new skills or experiences that would benefit the company? Consider how your time away has enhanced your skills and knowledge. Can you bring new perspectives or expertise to your former role?

Answering these questions honestly will provide you with a clearer understanding of your motivations and help you articulate your reasons for wanting to return to your former employer.

Evaluating Your Relationship with Your Former Employer

Your relationship with your former employer plays a significant role in your chances of successfully returning to your old job. Consider the following factors:

• How did you leave the company? Did you leave on good terms? Did you provide adequate notice and complete your projects professionally? Maintaining a positive relationship during your departure is crucial.
• What was your performance like during your previous employment? Were you a valuable asset to the company? Did you consistently meet or exceed expectations? Your past performance will be a significant factor in their decision.
• Have you stayed in touch with former colleagues or managers? Maintaining connections with people from your previous company can provide valuable insights and support your case for returning.
• What is your former manager's current opinion of you? If possible, try to gauge your former manager's perspective. Do they still view you favorably? Are they aware of your current situation?

If you left on good terms, performed well, and maintained positive relationships, your chances of successfully returning are significantly higher. However, if you left under less favorable circumstances, you may need to work harder to demonstrate your commitment and value to the company.

Understanding the Company's Perspective

Putting yourself in your former employer's shoes is essential to understand their perspective. Consider the following factors:

• What are the company's current needs? Has the company experienced any changes since you left? Are there any open positions that align with your skills and experience?
• How has the company performed since you left? Has the company grown, remained stable, or faced challenges? Understanding their current situation will help you tailor your approach.
• What are the company's policies on re-hiring former employees? Some companies have formal policies regarding boomerang employees, while others may handle it on a case-by-case basis.
• What are the potential benefits and risks of re-hiring you? From their perspective, what are the advantages of bringing you back? What are the potential drawbacks or concerns?

By understanding the company's perspective, you can anticipate their questions and address their concerns proactively.

Trends and Latest Developments

The trend of boomeranging is supported by several factors, including a tight labor market in certain industries and a growing recognition of the value of experienced employees. Companies are increasingly open to re-hiring former employees who have gained new skills and experiences elsewhere.

LinkedIn's data shows a significant increase in boomerang employees, particularly in sectors like technology, finance, and healthcare. This trend is likely to continue as companies seek to fill open positions quickly and efficiently. Furthermore, remote work has also influenced this trend. With more companies offering remote or hybrid work options, employees are more likely to consider returning to a former employer, even if they have relocated.

Professional insights suggest that successful boomerangs often demonstrate a clear understanding of why they left, what they learned during their time away, and how they can contribute to the company's current needs. They also emphasize their commitment to the company and their desire to be a long-term asset.

Tips and Expert Advice

Crafting Your Approach

Once you've assessed your reasons, evaluated your relationship with your former employer, and understood the company's perspective, it's time to craft your approach. This involves deciding who to contact, how to contact them, and what to say.

• Identify the right person to contact: Your former manager is often the best person to reach out to, especially if you had a good relationship with them. If your former manager is no longer with the company, consider contacting someone in HR or another manager you had a positive relationship with.
• Choose the right communication channel: Email is often the most appropriate way to initiate contact. It allows you to clearly articulate your thoughts and provides the recipient with time to consider your request. However, if you have a close relationship with your former manager, a phone call might be more personal and effective.
• Prepare a compelling message: Your message should be concise, professional, and persuasive. Start by expressing your interest in returning to the company. Briefly explain why you left, what you've learned since then, and why you want to return. Emphasize how your skills and experience can benefit the company.

Preparing Your Pitch

Your pitch is your opportunity to sell yourself to your former employer. It's crucial to be prepared to articulate your value proposition and address any potential concerns.

• Highlight your accomplishments: Remind your former employer of your past successes and contributions to the company. Quantify your achievements whenever possible.
• Showcase your new skills and experiences: Explain how your time away has enhanced your skills and knowledge. Provide specific examples of how you've grown professionally.
• Address any potential concerns: Be prepared to address any concerns your former employer might have about your return. For example, if you left for a higher salary, be prepared to explain why you're willing to return for potentially less money.
• Express your commitment to the company: Emphasize your desire to be a long-term asset to the company. Reiterate your belief in the company's mission and your enthusiasm for contributing to its success.

The Importance of Humility and Gratitude

When asking for your old job back, it's essential to approach the situation with humility and gratitude. Acknowledge your past mistakes and express your appreciation for the opportunity to return.

• Acknowledge your departure: Don't shy away from addressing your initial departure. Acknowledge that you made a decision to leave and that it didn't work out as planned.
• Express gratitude: Thank your former employer for the opportunity you had to work at the company previously. Express your appreciation for the skills and experiences you gained during your time there.
• Be humble: Avoid being arrogant or entitled. Recognize that you are asking for a second chance and that your former employer is taking a risk by re-hiring you.
• Show genuine enthusiasm: Let your passion for the company and the work shine through. Demonstrate that you are genuinely excited about the prospect of returning.

Negotiating the Terms

If your former employer offers you your old job back, be prepared to negotiate the terms of your re-employment. This includes your salary, benefits, and responsibilities.

• Research industry standards: Before you begin negotiations, research the average salary for your position and experience level in your industry.
• Be realistic: Be prepared to accept a salary that is comparable to your previous salary, even if it's lower than what you were earning in your new role.
• Negotiate your benefits: Inquire about your benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
• Clarify your responsibilities: Ensure that you understand your responsibilities and expectations in your new role.
• Be prepared to walk away: If the terms are not acceptable to you, be prepared to walk away. It's better to decline a job offer that doesn't meet your needs than to accept a role that will leave you feeling dissatisfied.

FAQ

Q: Is it unprofessional to ask for my old job back?

A: Not necessarily. While it used to be less common, boomeranging is becoming increasingly accepted in many industries. As long as you left on good terms and can demonstrate how your return benefits the company, it's a valid option to explore.

Q: How long should I wait before asking for my old job back?

A: There's no magic number, but generally, waiting at least six months to a year is advisable. This allows you to gain new experiences and perspectives and demonstrates that you've given your decision careful thought.

Q: What if my old position is no longer available?

A: Inquire about other open positions within the company that align with your skills and experience. Be open to exploring different roles and responsibilities.

Q: Should I tell my current employer that I'm considering returning to my old job?

A: No, it's generally not advisable to inform your current employer until you have a formal offer from your former company. Doing so could jeopardize your current employment.

Q: What if my former employer says no?

A: Accept their decision gracefully and thank them for their time and consideration. Maintain a positive relationship and keep the door open for future opportunities.

Conclusion

Asking for your old job back requires careful planning, honest self-reflection, and a strategic approach. By assessing your reasons, evaluating your relationship with your former employer, understanding the company's perspective, and crafting a compelling pitch, you can increase your chances of a successful return. Remember to approach the situation with humility, gratitude, and a genuine desire to contribute to the company's success.

If you're contemplating asking for your old job back, take the time to thoroughly assess your situation and prepare your case. Don't be afraid to reach out to your former employer and explore the possibility of returning. If you've learned valuable lessons, gained new skills, and genuinely miss the company, a return to your old job could be the perfect career move. Take the first step today and reach out to your former employer!