The "Boomerang Employee": Why You Should Consider Rehiring Former Staff
The Great Resignation and the Talent Shortage
The past few years have seen unprecedented levels of employee turnover, with millions of people quitting their jobs in search of better opportunities, greater flexibility, or a change of pace. This "Great Resignation" has left many companies struggling to fill vacancies and maintain productivity.
But what if the solution to your talent shortage was right under your nose?
Enter the "boomerang employee"—former employees who return to a company after a period of time away. While once viewed with skepticism, boomerang employees are now being recognized as a valuable asset in today's competitive job market.
The Boomerang Advantage: A Win-Win Situation
Rehiring former employees can offer a number of benefits for both the company and the returning employee:
Reduced Onboarding Time: Boomerang employees are already familiar with your company culture, processes, and systems, meaning they can hit the ground running and require less training.
Cultural Fit: You already know they're a good cultural fit, which can be a major advantage in a tight labor market where finding candidates who align with your values can be challenging.
Institutional Knowledge: Boomerang employees bring back valuable institutional knowledge and experience, which can be especially beneficial for startups and SMBs.
Enhanced Engagement: Boomerang employees often return with renewed enthusiasm and a deeper appreciation for their role, leading to increased engagement and productivity.
Making it Work: Strategies for Rehiring Success
Rehiring former employees requires a thoughtful approach. Here are a few key strategies to ensure a successful "boomerang" experience:
Stay in Touch: Maintain relationships with former employees through alumni networks, social media, or occasional check-ins. This keeps your company top-of-mind should they consider returning.
Address the Reasons for Leaving: Understand why the employee left in the first place and address any concerns they may have had. This demonstrates that you value their feedback and are committed to creating a positive work environment.
Craft a Compelling "Welcome Back" Package: Offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, along with opportunities for growth and development, to entice former employees to return.
Embrace Their Growth: Recognize that former employees have likely gained new skills and experiences during their time away. Be open to leveraging their new knowledge and providing opportunities for them to contribute in different ways.
The Takeaway: Don't Overlook the Familiar Face
In today's challenging hiring environment, boomerang employees can be a valuable asset. By staying connected with former staff, addressing past concerns, and offering a compelling "welcome back" package, you can tap into a pool of talented individuals who are already familiar with your company and ready to contribute.
Is there a former employee you'd like to rehire? Reach out to them today! Or, if you don't have a formal alumni network, consider creating one to stay connected with your former staff. You never know when a familiar face might be the perfect fit for your next open position.