A “boomerang employee” is an individual who leaves an organization and later returns to work for the same company. Successfully navigating the path back to a former position relies heavily on carefully planned and strategically executed communication.
Laying the Groundwork for a Boomerang Return
Before composing any message, a candidate should conduct a thorough self-assessment and external review of the company’s current status. Research the company’s recent announcements or job boards to gauge current hiring needs, especially within the former department. Confirming that the previous departure was handled amicably is a foundational step for any return consideration.
The most important element of this groundwork is articulating the specific value gained since the previous employment. Candidates should define precisely why the former role or company environment is now more appealing, focusing on professional growth rather than dissatisfaction elsewhere. This allows the applicant to highlight specific, measurable skills or industry knowledge acquired during the interim period that directly benefit the previous employer. This assessment shifts the focus from simply wanting a job to presenting a stronger, more experienced candidate ready to contribute immediately.
Mastering the Tone and Framing of the Request
The tone must remain consistently professional, positive, and focused on the future. Messaging should avoid negativity about the reasons for the previous departure or dissatisfaction with a current employer, as this can undermine confidence in the applicant’s long-term commitment. Frame the interest as a positive return, emphasizing existing familiarity with the company culture and systems as a significant advantage.
When presenting the case for rehire, the applicant must highlight specific skills or new experience gained since leaving that directly address a current or anticipated need within the former team. For example, mentioning the successful implementation of a new software platform demonstrates tangible growth and increased capability. This forward-looking approach positions the applicant as a more valuable professional ready to reinvest their enhanced expertise. A confident and appreciative tone conveys respect for the company while showcasing the applicant’s elevated professional standing.
Essential Components of the Rehire Email
The rehire email requires several distinct components designed to maximize clarity and efficiency for the recipient. The subject line must be concise and immediately state the intent, such as, “Inquiry Regarding the [Former Role] Position” or “Catching Up: [Your Name] Reaching Out.” A polite, professional opening should follow, briefly acknowledging the relationship with the former manager or contact person.
The core of the message involves a clear paragraph stating the desire to return to the organization, perhaps specifically to the former department. This is followed by a paragraph highlighting professional growth achieved since the departure, focusing on specific competencies or certifications acquired. The email should conclude with a direct call to action, suggesting a brief, informal phone call or meeting to discuss potential opportunities further. This structure ensures the request is easily digestible and provides a clear next step.
Sample Email Template: Asking for Your Old Job Back
Subject: Inquiry Regarding Potential Opportunities at [Company Name]
Dear [Manager Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I was recently reflecting on my time at [Company Name] and the positive experiences I had working on the [Specific Project or Team Name]. I have been following the company’s recent success in [Mention Recent Company Achievement] and continue to hold the organization in high regard.
Since leaving, I have focused on expanding my expertise in [Specific Area, e.g., market analysis] and have successfully led the implementation of [Specific Tool or Process, e.g., a new CRM system] at [Current/Previous Company]. I have also completed [Specific Certification or Training], which has equipped me with a deeper understanding of [Specific Industry Trend].
I am writing to inquire if any suitable opportunities within the [Former Department Name] or related teams might align with my enhanced skill set. I would particularly welcome the chance to apply my experience in [Skill Gained] to support the team’s current goals around [Specific Goal, e.g., Q4 growth targets]. Would you be open to a brief 15-minute call sometime next week to discuss this further?
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Variation A: Specific Job Opening
If the applicant is aware of a specific job opening, the second paragraph should directly reference the job title and requisition number. State how newly acquired skills make the applicant an exceptional fit for that specific role.
Variation B: General Inquiry
If no specific role is known, the third paragraph should broaden the inquiry. Ask if the manager knows of any roles in other departments where the applicant’s specific experience might be valuable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A mistake that can derail a rehire effort is projecting desperation or sounding overly vague about the desired outcome. The communication must maintain a tone of considered interest, not an urgent plea for employment, which signals a lack of professional stability. Avoid using the email as an opportunity to complain about the current employer or the current job market.
Candidates should also avoid rehashing old grievances or attempting to justify the initial decision to leave, as this shifts the focus away from the value they now bring. Failing to mention specific, current accomplishments since departing makes the applicant look like they have stagnated professionally. The message should focus entirely on future contributions, not past regrets or current dissatisfaction elsewhere.
Following Up and Handling the Response
After sending the initial email, a waiting period of five to seven business days is appropriate before sending a polite, professional follow-up. This check-in should be brief, simply reiterating the interest in connecting and confirming the original message was received. Candidates should avoid sending multiple messages or attempting to reach the contact through other channels during this waiting period.
If the response is a request to apply formally through the company’s career portal, the applicant should comply immediately, understanding that this is a necessary step in the established hiring process. If the manager indicates that there are currently no openings, the applicant should maintain a gracious and professional demeanor, thanking them for their time and expressing a hope to connect in the future. Maintaining professionalism, regardless of the outcome, preserves the relationship and keeps the door open for opportunities that may arise later.