Great Lakes Wire

Boomerang employees, also known as rehires or alumni hires, are individuals who leave a company and later return. This trend gained momentum in 2022 during the Great Resignation when many workers reconsidered their decisions to switch jobs and returned to former employers. The initial wave of this trend was partly driven by companies rehiring staff laid off during the pandemic.

Industry experts suggest that the trend is persisting beyond its post-COVID origins. A growing percentage of onboarded employees are now classified as rehires. Surveys indicate that nearly half of all employees would consider returning to a previous employer.

Several factors motivate employees to return. Some seek to leverage new skills acquired elsewhere for career advancement within their former companies. Others might be drawn back due to personal reasons or a desire for a stable work environment with better work-life balance.

For employers, rehiring former staff can save time and resources since these individuals are already familiar with company culture and operations. They tend to require less training and often bring enhanced skills and perspectives from their experiences elsewhere.

However, there are potential challenges in hiring boomerang employees. Current staff may harbor resentment or perceive favoritism towards returning colleagues. Additionally, there's a risk of complacency or the revival of old habits among rehires.

Employers are advised to maintain positive relationships with departing employees through good offboarding practices and alumni networks. Regular communication with former employees can keep them informed about new opportunities, potentially encouraging them to return when circumstances align.

In conclusion, when considering rehiring a boomerang employee, it is crucial to evaluate why they left initially and whether they remain a suitable fit for the company upon their return.