Is it a good idea to go back to your previous employer? The answer is both ‘Yes’ and ‘No’—depending on some factors which we will discuss here. Our career paths rarely unfold exactly as planned. Job transitions, driven by factors like career advancement, work-life balance, or company support, are common. If, after a period in a new role, you consider returning to a former employer, careful evaluation is essential.
This article will guide you through the process, covering the advantages and disadvantages of rejoining a previous company, how to initiate the return, and strategies for success upon re-entry. We’ll begin by examining the potential benefits, followed by the drawbacks, the steps to take in initiating a return, and advice for integrating back into the organization.
The PROS of Going Back to Your Previous Employer
Before the thought of going back to your previous employer comes to your mind, there will have been some challenges in your present workplace. Here are some of the pros or advantages that you will benefit from by going back to your previous employer.
1. You are Familiar With the Company
One good advantage is that you already know the company culture, processes, and people, reducing the adjustment period. And this can lead to faster productivity and a quicker return to contributing fully.
Additionally, you likely have existing relationships with colleagues and managers, which can make reintegration smoother—providing a sense of comfort and support.
2. It Can Position You for Higher-Level Roles
Let’s say you left your previous organization to improve your skills, going back there (showcasing your improved skills) can position you for higher-level roles or increased responsibilities. Just by demonstrating your skills, the company will know your value and this can lead to better compensation.
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The CONS of Going Back to Your Previous Employer
When the thought of going back to your previous employer comes to your mind, don’t be in a hurry to leave your current workplace immediately. You might want to consider the following drawbacks of returning to your former employer.
1. Damaged Reputation/Trust is Broken
As the adage states, once trust is broken, it’s exceedingly difficult to repair. Therefore, carefully examine the reasons for your initial departure. Was it due to theft, unethical practices, or another significant negative incident? If your departure stemmed from such issues, you likely breached their trust, and rebuilding it could take considerable time. If you left on bad terms, returning may be difficult or impossible.
2. Stagnation/Perception of Lack of Ambition
You might fall back into old patterns or habits–returning to the same environment may lead to a lack of new challenges and opportunities for growth. Also, some employers may perceive returning as a lack of ambition or a failure to succeed elsewhere. And it can hinder your career advancement within the company.
3. Unresolved Issues
Imagine returning to a workplace you left due to a toxic culture and micromanagement. Before doing so, recognize that those traits may still be present. It’s crucial to verify whether the company has genuinely resolved these issues.
4. Changed Company
While we mentioned in the pros section that you will be familiar with the company, here is another side of the coin; the company may have changed drastically since you left. New management, new procedures, or new company culture may create a situation where you are now a bad fit. Adaptation will be a challenge definitely.
Is it a good idea to go back to your previous employer? We’ve gathered insights from employees who’ve done just that. Here’s a real-world perspective shared on Quora.
Factors to Consider Before Going Back to Your Previous Employer
We have analyzed the possible advantages as well as disadvantages of returning to your former employer, so here we will look into the factors to consider before going back.
- Reasons for Leaving: Was it for better opportunities, personal reasons, or dissatisfaction with the company?
- Reasons for Returning: Are you returning for genuine career growth or out of desperation?
- Company Changes: Has the company culture, management, or structure changed since you left?
- Your Growth: Have you gained valuable skills and experiences that make you a more valuable asset?
- Your Relationships: Are your relationships with former colleagues and managers still positive?
After considering these factors and you are convinced that going back was a good idea, then check out this next section on how you can plan your return.
Tips on How to Go Back to Your Previous Job
Self-analysis comes into play here—remind yourself why you left there in the first place and if returning was a good idea. Thereafter you decide to follow these tips below
1. Contact Your Previous Employer
Reach out to the management or your employer directly, stating your new plan on coming back to the organization. This is why it is good to not burn the bridge with your employer. Furthermore, reiterate your interest in the position you were occupying. Don’t forget that, as we discussed, trust is broken, so prove to them that you are not playing with them a second time—be remorseful for your actions and possibly seek insights on how you can do better this time around.
Be prepared for a potentially lengthy wait, particularly if there are no open positions. Remain patient and optimistic for a favorable outcome, while consistently staying in touch with management.
2. Connect With Former Colleagues
Also in a way to get back into the organization, connect with your former colleagues, letting them know you are joining them soon. Use these conversations strategically to gather valuable insights about the company’s current state. You can ask questions like;
- “What significant changes have occurred in the company culture or management since I left?”
- “Are there any new projects or initiatives that align with my skills and interests?”
- “How has the team dynamic evolved, and what are the current priorities?”
- “What are the biggest challenges the company is facing right now, and how are they being addressed?”
- “Are there any updates on professional development or training opportunities available to employees?”
These questions demonstrate not only your passion for the growth of the organization but also your skills and commitment to learning and growth.
3. Highlight New Skills
For someone who either quit or was fired from the organization, be ready to showcase your new, acquired skills that will benefit them. If there were courses you took to solidify your smooth return to the organization, be confident in mentioning them. For example, ‘Since leaving, I’ve earned a project management certification and successfully led a similar project, demonstrating improved organizational skills.'” Every employer would be glad to have you back on their team.
4. Go With a Positive Attitude
If you previously left due to a toxic work culture, demonstrate a positive change upon your return. Be prepared for persistent questions about your departure and subsequent employment. Some colleagues may be hesitant to engage or may attempt to provoke you. Maintain a positive attitude, focus on your work, and interact cordially with everyone.
5. Focus on Not Relapsing to Old Habits
Upon your return, maintain an unwavering focus on avoiding past errors. Analyze the specific circumstances that led to your departure—whether it was due to performance issues, interpersonal conflicts, or cultural misalignment—and develop a concrete plan to prevent recurrence. This involves:
- Self-Awareness and Accountability: Regularly reflect on your actions and seek feedback to identify potential blind spots. Take full responsibility for your past mistakes and demonstrate a clear commitment to change.
- Proactive Skill Development: If skill deficiencies contributed to your departure, dedicate yourself to continuous learning and improvement. Seek out training opportunities, mentorship, or relevant certifications.
- Strategic Relationship Building: If interpersonal conflicts were a factor, prioritize building positive and professional relationships with colleagues and managers. Practice active listening, clear communication, and conflict resolution skills.
- Adaptation to Company Culture: If cultural misalignment is a concern, actively immerse yourself in the company’s values and norms. Demonstrate a willingness to adapt and contribute to a positive work environment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether or not it is good to return to your previous employer depends on your career growth and aspirations. Before you consider going back to your previous employer ensure that you left on good terms, have improved your skills, and are ready to be invested in the company’s well-being. Once you decide to go back, contact the management, connect with your colleagues, and ask them thoughtful questions to gauge the company’s current growth, highlight your skills, and go with a positive attitude. Don’t forget to focus on not repeating old habits —- if you are given the opportunity to come back to the organization.
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