You left your job to try other experiences. After working abroad, resuming studies or changing your career, you decide to accept a position with your former employer. With your new skills in hand, your in-depth knowledge of the organization and your motivation pumped up, the future looks promising. But one question bothers you: did you make the right choice?
You are now part of the family of boomerang employees. In a context of talent shortage, your former employer has every interest in showing interest in you. And then – persona non grata? Not really.
This practice is even well received by companies, according to a study published in January 2019 by the staffing company Accountemps. This survey revealed that in Canada, more than nine in ten senior executives (91%) did not mind rehiring former team members who have decided in the past to pursue their careers in other organizations.
- Consider
First of all, remember why you left. And leave behind what you no longer want in your professional life. The Accountemps study found that only a third of workers were willing to apply for a position with a former employer. Among the negative reasons cited were dissatisfaction with management style (18%) and unrewarding tasks (14%).
- Negotiate
Before taking the plunge with your former employer, you need to weigh the pros and cons. Negotiating your working conditions thoroughly, discussing the responsibilities and long-term prospects of your new position, including the salary, are elements that should not be overlooked.
- Be confident
If the knot in your stomach comes back and persists during the trial period, it’s a bad sign. Stress shouldn’t intrude in this new adventure. You come to a familiar setting with, most of the time, the support of colleagues still working in the organization.
Confidence is what will drive you to success. Having worked there before, you already know the work environment and the expectations of the company. These benefits will allow you to progress quickly and start contributing, according to David King, President of Accountemps in Canada.
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Adapt
Of course, keep in mind that not everything will be rosy. Certainly, it is reassuring to know the company, but during your absence, many things will have changed. You will have to prove yourself and show that this new relationship with your employer promises to be a win-win situation.