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Returning to a former employer, a practice known as 'boomeranging,' can be a strategically sound career move if you left on good terms and the company's current needs align with your evolved skills. This decision requires careful evaluation of your past reasons for leaving, the company's present state, and your long-term career goals.
What is a Boomerang Employee?
A boomerang employee is a professional who returns to a former employer after a period of working elsewhere or taking a career break. This trend has gained traction as companies recognize the value of rehiring individuals who already understand the company culture and require a shorter ramp-up period—the time it takes for a new hire to become fully productive. Before considering this path, it's crucial to assess your initial departure reasons against current circumstances.
Why Would Returning to an Old Job Make Sense?
Several scenarios make boomeranging a viable option. The most critical factor is having left your previous role on positive terms, without burning bridges—damaging professional relationships. Common reasons for a successful return include:
Conversely, if your departure was rooted in conflict, a toxic culture, or lack of growth opportunities that haven't changed, returning is likely unwise unless it's purely a short-term survival job to maintain income.
What Steps Should You Take Before Deciding to Boomerang?
A thoughtful, analytical approach is essential. Based on common human resources assessment models, you should conduct a thorough self-assessment and external research.
Conduct a Self-Assessment: Make a list of the reasons you left. Ask yourself:
Research the Company: Investigate your former employer as if you were a new candidate. Look into recent company performance, organizational restructuring (changes in company hierarchy or departments), and shifts in company culture. Review their recent public announcements and strategic goals.
Test the Waters: If possible, discreetly reach out to trusted former colleagues or a respected former manager. Inquire about the current climate and, if appropriate, express your interest in exploring a return. See if there is a precedent for other successful boomerang employees.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Being a Boomerang Employee?
Weighing the advantages and disadvantages is a critical part of the decision-making process.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Shorter Learning Curve: You already understand the systems, processes, and culture, allowing you to contribute faster. | Potential Loss of Benefits: Your previous tenure may not be reinstated, meaning you could start over with vacation accrual and other seniority-based benefits. |
| Re-established Networks: You can immediately reactivate relationships with former colleagues, bypassing the initial isolation of a new job. | Resentment from Peers: Some colleagues may view your return negatively, especially if they perceived your departure as disloyal. |
| Proven Cultural Fit: The employer already knows you can succeed in their environment, reducing hiring risk. | Unchanged Problems: The challenges that originally caused you to leave might still be present. |
To ensure a successful return, focus on these key takeaways: honestly evaluate your reasons for leaving, thoroughly research the company's current state, and have open conversations about role expectations and company changes. A well-considered decision to boomerang can be a powerful step in your career development, but it requires due diligence to ensure the move is the right fit for both you and the employer. If, after your assessment, returning doesn't seem like the best path, consider creating a profile on ok.com to explore new opportunities that match your updated skills and career aspirations.
