Returning To Work For a Previous Employer

In the fast paced and ever evolving landscape of today’s working environments, it is not uncommon for an employee to decide to leave the company they are currently working for and return to a former employer.

People leave jobs for many reasons but often it is because they decide to seek a new opportunity, perhaps a larger salary or feel that for whatever reason, they will be happier in a new role within the structure of a new company.

So, what if you have left an employer because of your own reasons but now wish to return to them? Is this possible and can a former employer rehire you? The straightforward answer is yes, of course you can and many people do end up working for former employers. At the time of leaving your former job you may have never envisaged yourself returning months or years later, but it does happen and circumstances as well as perspectives can change rapidly.

Hopefully you left your former employer on good terms which will obviously make things much easier in the event of wanting them to consider giving you either your old job back or a new role within their company. Depending on how you left your job and what relationship you had with your previous employer, you have a variety of options available to you when considering how you approach them with the subject of potentially rehiring you. You may feel that a direct phone call would be best to speak with them candidly, perhaps a more formal email may be more suitable or even using a professional platform such as LinkedIn. You know your former boss and you know how best to approach them.

Once you have contacted them, be honest with your communication. When reaching out to them, explain why your new position is not as fulfilling as you had anticipated and give the reasons why. Of course, you do not have to go into detail but keep it brief yet concise. Articulate to them that you wish for the lines of communication for potential reemployment to be considered by them. This may not be possible immediately, especially if there are no jobs currently available but ensure you make it clear that you wish to be considered for any future vacancies. It may feel awkward and even embarrassing to admit that you had misjudged how green the grass may have been elsewhere but once the dialogue has been had and you have explained your circumstances to your previous employer, you can feel reassured that reaching out was in your best interests. Your previous employer will no doubt respond favourably to your honesty and courage.

If you have learned any new skills since starting your new role, showcase this and update your previous employer on how valuable you are and how these new experiences and achievements will benefit your former company. Your employment history with them as well as potentially saving them the time and expense with recruiting and interviewing should stand you in good stead for securing re employment if both parties current situations align. Rejoining a former company can be beneficial to all due to your familiarity with the company culture and overall processes.