The Boomerang Employee

A boomerang employee is someone who leaves a company and later returns to work for the same employer. An employee may leave for a number of reasons, such as gaining new skills elsewhere, exploring different opportunities, or personal circumstances. Boomerang employees are becoming more common as workplace dynamics shift, and companies increasingly recognise the value of experienced former employees. In a competitive job market, these potential rehires stand out in comparison to new candidates vying for positions.

It may be a bit nerve racking considering seeking employment with an organisation you've resigned from. However there are several reasons why you may stand out from the rest. 

Reasons companies prefer boomerang employees include:

1. Faster Onboarding & Training

Boomerang employees require less training and can hit the ground running. They are already familiar with the company culture, policies, and workflows.

2. Proven Cultural Fit

They have already worked at the company, so the organisation already knows how well they align with the company values and work environment.

3. New Skills & Perspectives

After gaining experience elsewhere, they may return with enhanced skills, fresh ideas, and new industry insights that can benefit the company.

4. Higher Employee Engagement

Returning employees often have a clearer sense of purpose and loyalty, making them more engaged and committed.

5. Stronger Employer Brand

The willing return of former employees signals to others that the company is a great place to work.

6. Reduced Hiring Risks

The knowledge of a former employee's work ethic, performance, and reliability, means that hiring a former employee carries lower risks than bringing in a completely new candidate.

If you’re considering returning to a former employer as a boomerang employee, here’s some key advice to increase your chances of success:

1. Reflect on Why You Left & Why You Want to Return

Be honest with yourself about why you originally left. Ensure your reasons for returning align with your long-term personal and professional goals.

2. Assess What’s Changed

Research whether the company culture, leadership, or policies have evolved since you left. Make sure the issues that led you to leave (if any) have been addressed or are no longer relevant.

3. Reconnect & Network Internally

Reach out to former colleagues or managers to gauge their insights on returning. If you left on good terms, they might advocate for you. Opportunities in different roles, teams or locations may be on offer that are a better fit.

4. Position Your Return as a Win-Win

Highlight the new skills, experiences, and perspectives you’ve gained since leaving. Show how your return would add value rather than seem like a step backward.

5. Address the Elephant in the Room

Be prepared to explain why you left and why you're coming back through a positive lens. Frame it as professional growth and a learning experience rather than regret. You didn't know then what you know now! (See point 1!)

6. Treat the Process Professionally

Even though you're a former employee, don’t assume you’ll be rehired automatically. Update your resume, prepare for interviews, and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role.

7. Negotiate Wisely

If applicable, negotiate salary, benefits, or a better role based on your added experience. Leverage what you've gained since leaving.

8. Show Commitment & a Long-Term Mindset

Employers may worry you’ll leave again. Show them you’re serious about staying and contributing for the long haul.

Returning to a former employer can be a great move if done for the right reasons and approached strategically!