Boomerang Employees: Should You Return to Your Old Job?
Considering returning to your previous job? Explore the concept of boomerang employees and weigh the pros and cons. Make an informed decision about your career path.
Have you ever found yourself reminiscing about the good old days at your former workplace? Maybe it is the camaraderie among your old teammates, the exciting projects, or perhaps the familiar routine that you miss.
Now, what if you get a chance to return to your previous employer? It might sound like a tricky proposition, but you're not alone in this boat. Many individuals find themselves at this crossroad at some point in their career, contemplating the idea of becoming what’s known as a ‘boomerang employee’.
If you've never heard of this term, let me share more about the concept of boomerang employment with you. We'll also weigh the pros and cons and give you actionable insights to help you make an informed decision.
So, if the past is knocking on your door, should you answer? Let’s dive in and explore!
Understanding the Boomerang Employee Phenomenon
The term ‘boomerang employee’ refers to individuals who rejoin a former employer after a stint elsewhere. It's like a boomerang: you left, but circumstances have swung you back around. This phenomenon is more common than you might think.
Now, why is this a thing? First off, having prior experience with the company, you already have a leg up. You know the culture, the processes, and perhaps still have friends in the cubicles. Moreover, from the employer's perspective, rehiring a former employee often involves less training and a shorter adjustment period compared to bringing someone new on board.
You know, there are so many interesting stories of boomerang employees out there. Some people leave to explore different opportunities, gain new skills, or maybe even take a break, only to come back with a fresh perspective and a more diverse skill set. Others realize that the grass isn't always greener and end up appreciating the positive aspects of their previous workplace even more in hindsight. It's fascinating how things can change, right?
However, not all boomerang stories are fairy tales. The success of your return largely hinges on the reasons you left, the changes that have occurred during your absence, and how well you and your former employer can navigate the new-old relationship.
Boomerang employment isn't a one-size-fits-all scenario, but understanding its dynamics is the first step in figuring out if this path is right for you. In the following sections, we'll dive deeper into why going back to a former employer might be a good idea, the potential pitfalls, and how to approach this unique career opportunity.
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Real Life Example
When I was writing this article, I was thinking whether I could mention someone as an example. I reached out to several friends, but they all told me no. But hey, here's a prime example that many people know.
Remember Sam Altman? He got fired from OpenAI on November 17, then just three days later on November 20, he agreed to start at Microsoft! (Talk about quick hires if they really want you.)
And guess what, on November 22, he returned to OpenAI. Can you imagine explaining that two-day gap in his resume? But hey, seems like companies don't really care if they want to hire you.
Of course, this example isn't exactly the right one. But you know what I mean, right? We all know folks around us who end up going back to their old companies. And at some point in our career, we might get a chance or even think about returning to our previous company.
Evaluating the Pros: 5 Reasons Why Returning Might be a Good Idea
Embarking on the journey back to a familiar shore? Here’s why rejoining your former employer could be a wise career move:
Familiarity with Company Culture and Processes
You've been there, done that. The learning curve in understanding the company’s ethos, the way things are done, and who's who in the hierarchy isn’t steep. You can hit the ground running without spending much time figuring out the basics.Rekindling Professional Relationships
Old faces, warm smiles, and a network that you can tap into from day one. The professional relationships you nurtured can be picked up from where you left off. These connections can be invaluable in getting back into the swing of things swiftly.Potential for a Better Position or Salary
Your voyage outside the company has hopefully added new skills, experiences, and achievements to your repertoire. This makes you a more valuable asset, and there's a good chance that the offer on the table might be for a higher position or a better salary.
Note: A lot of companies have this rule where, if you return within the first 12 months, you go back to your old position. But if it's been more than 12 months, ideally 24 or more, they might even consider you for a higher role, especially if your current role is higher than the one you left.Shorter Adjustment Period
The anxiety of the unknown that usually accompanies a new job is greatly reduced. The adjustment period is likely to be shorter as you’re already acquainted with the company’s expectations and work culture.Knowledge about the Reasons of Previous Departure
Having a clear understanding of why you left and what has changed since then can give you a solid foundation to start on a positive note. It’s a chance to make a more informed decision this time around.
The best thing about coming back is that you don't have to prove yourself and your abilities to a new team and leaders, especially if they already know you and your work.
Weighing the Cons: 5 Reasons Why You Should Think Twice
While the idea of returning to a familiar territory may seem appealing, here are some considerations that might prompt a double take:
Possible Stagnation or Lack of New Challenges
Has the company evolved in your absence, or is it still the same old, same old? The absence of new challenges and growth opportunities can lead to a sense of stagnation.The Reasons Why You Left in the First Place
It’s crucial to reflect on why you parted ways initially. If the issues that propelled your exit still persist, you might find yourself back in a frustrating situation.Perception from Former and Current Colleagues
There might be eyebrows raised, whispers, or even resentment from colleagues who may view your return with skepticism. It’s essential to be prepared for a mixed bag of reactions and have a plan to navigate through them.Potential for Old Habits or Conflicts to Resurface
The past may come knocking, be it in the form of old conflicts or habits. It’s a challenge to ensure that you don’t fall back into outdated routines or unresolved issues.Comparative Opportunities Elsewhere
Have you explored all your options? Before circling back, it’s wise to ensure there aren’t better opportunities elsewhere that could provide a fresh perspective and a chance for growth.
In this ongoing battle between the familiar and the new, it's important to weigh the pros and cons carefully. This will help you make a decision that aligns with your career aspirations and personal growth.
So, take your time and consider all the factors before making a choice.
Personal Reflection and Analysis
As you find yourself at a major career crossroads, it's important to take a step back and reflect. This decision goes beyond just making a pros and cons list – it's about aligning your career path with your personal and professional growth.
Reflecting on Growth
Since bidding adieu to your former company, how have you grown professionally and personally? Have you acquired new skills, expanded your network, or perhaps, discovered previously unknown facets of your career interests? Reflect on these aspects to understand better where you stand now compared to when you left.
Evaluating Current Career Goals
Consider your present career goals. How well do they align with the opportunity at your former workplace? It's crucial to have a clear vision of your short-term and long-term career objectives and how returning to your old company fits into this picture.
Assessing Changes
Has your former employer evolved since you left? Are the reasons that prompted your departure still prevalent? Engage in conversations with current employees, read up on recent company reviews, and assess any notable changes in company culture, policies, or leadership. It's about ensuring that your decision to return isn't merely a trip down memory lane, but a well-informed choice aimed at propelling your career forward.
Boomerang Employees
One thing that people who are considering to return often overlook is that the company is evolving, just like they are. So the skills you have and the ones you acquired might not be as useful for your previous employer anymore.
But coming back to a former employer is quite a journey. It's filled with exciting opportunities and potential pitfalls. You gotta do some soul-searching, careful analysis, and open communication with the prospective employer about your new role and expectations.
The venture back to familiar terrains could either be a catapult to new heights in your career or a detour that holds you back. So, it's really important to weigh all factors meticulously, align your current career aspirations with what’s on offer, and gauge whether this move resonates with where you see yourself in the foreseeable future.
In career development, making informed choices backed by a thorough understanding of your professional landscape and personal aspirations are the stepping stones to success. So, as you think about this significant decision, take some time to reflect, analyze, and choose the path that propels you towards achieving your career goals.
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