Should You Get on this Hiring Bandwagon?
You know that we watch trends in the workplace, and one of the latest has been nicknamed “boomerang hiring”. It’s a noticeable number of employees returning to their former employers; enough to be reported on and remarked about, because rehiring former employees or returning to a place you’ve left for a reason has traditionally been against better judgment for some good reasons.
So why would it be gaining popularity now? As noted by LinkedIn, Staffing Hub, The HR Digest, and Forbes, a returning employee can bring back not just familiarity but fresh skills and perspectives, a unique combination often worth consideration.
What kind of consideration? Here is a good example of the thought process you’ll want to give to that choice if it’s presented to you, whether you are the employer or the job seeker.
If you are the Hiring Manager, think about this:
✅ Pros:
Faster onboarding and reduced training costs thanks to familiarity with your systems and culture.
Improved retention if the employee is returning voluntarily and with a new motivation and appreciation for their role.
Fresh skills and external experience brought back from their time away can make the former employee more valuable this time around.
Send a positive signal to current staff that your company is a good place to return to, enhancing your brand in their eyes.
⚠️ Cons:
Culture fit might be an issue if things have changed since they left — new teammates, processes, or priorities could clash with old expectations.
There is a risk of resentment among coworkers who stayed, especially if the returning employee appears to be brought back at an elevated status.
Old unwanted habits will likely also return with the former employee, so reflect on any ways of working that were outdated or requests for change that were resisted.
If you are the Job Seeker, consider these factors:
✅ Pros:
Your familiarity with the workplace, team, and expectations makes the transition smoother. It’s always hard to be the rookie!
Career growth possibilities might be open to you now, if you are able to show that you are ready for higher-level positions or new responsibilities than previously.
Strong relationships with the previous team can help you hit the ground running and make a bigger impact faster.
⚠️ Cons:
Lingering issues may still be lingering. If you left for a serious reason, be sure those conditions have improved.
Perception could become reality if the employer or some colleagues question your commitment this time around or see you as indecisive.
Some patterns risk repeating, so remember that if you are returning to an environment you felt you once outgrew or was limiting your long-term growth.
What could Personnel Partners do to help with the decision?
At our staffing agency, we specialize in matching office and administrative professionals with the right opportunities — whether you’re a business considering welcoming back a boomerang employee, or a job seeker weighing a return. We understand how to help both sides navigate the process, evaluate the fit, and set everyone up for long-term success. In fact, one of the most popular methods of hiring (temp-to-hire) is proven to be effective for both the new hire and the employer in navigating that “honeymoon” period as everyone settles in to feel out how to work together.
If you’re curious about leveraging this trend in your hiring strategy — or wondering whether going back to a past employer is right for you — we’re here to guide you.
Reach out to us today to explore how temp-to-hire arrangements could work for your next placement or your next role.