"The Rise of Boomerang Employees: Exploring the Great Resignation and the Return to Old Jobs"

"The Rise of Boomerang Employees: Exploring the Great Resignation and the Return to Old Jobs"

Introduction:
"They quit. Now they want their jobs back." This summer, a significant portion of the workforce contemplated leaving their jobs, and many actually did. The pandemic and the resulting burnout led employees to seek a lifestyle change and a break from the traditional office setup. However, this wave of resignations has left a void in the job market, with employers struggling to fill the vacancies. Interestingly, experts predict that the trend of the "Great Resignation" will soon be replaced by another phenomenon - the rise of boomerang employees who will return to their old jobs.

The Boomerang Effect:
Boomerang employment, the act of returning to a previous employer, has been on the rise over the past decade. According to academic Klotz, this trend is likely to continue for the next five years. Typically, companies and employees wait for a period of 12 to 18 months after quitting before considering a return. However, this window is expected to shorten in the future. Overcoming the pride associated with going back to a previous workplace can be a challenge, as individuals have to acknowledge their initial decision to leave was a mistake and express gratitude for the opportunity to return.

The Power of Networking:
Husnara Begum, a career management specialist, experienced boomerang employment early on in her career. She left her job only to realize that culturally, it wasn't the right fit for her. Fortunately, Begum had built a strong internal network during her time there, making it easier for her to return. She advises never to burn bridges when leaving a job, as maintaining professional relationships can open doors for a potential comeback. Begum's experience emphasizes the importance of building strong connections within the workplace.

The Risk of Penalization for Loyalty:
Deirdre Snyder, an assistant professor of management, discovered that boomerang employees in professional services firms were often paid approximately $10,000 more annually than their colleagues who had stayed. This discrepancy can feel like a "slap in the face" for loyal employees and poses a significant risk when a company has a culture of boomerang employment. If organizations aim to bring back a large proportion of their former employees, they must address this issue to maintain employee morale and loyalty.

The Changing Landscape:
While work perks may not have improved significantly in other companies, many are now developing inclusive programs that offer flexibility and remote work options. As a result, it is likely that a considerable number of individuals who have returned to their previous jobs may seek new opportunities elsewhere. This "double hop" phenomenon, as it is referred to, could potentially outweigh the number of boomerang employees.

Actionable Advice:

1. Maintain professional relationships: Building a strong internal network can prove invaluable if you ever decide to return to a previous employer. Take the time to nurture these connections and leave on a positive note.

2. Reflect and evaluate: Before considering a return to a previous job, reflect on the reasons that led to your initial departure. Assess whether the issues have been addressed or if returning would be a step backward in your career progression.

3. Consider long-term prospects: While returning to a familiar workplace may feel comforting, it is essential to evaluate your long-term goals and whether the company aligns with them. Ensure that the organization offers growth opportunities and a supportive work environment.

Conclusion:
The "Great Resignation" has caused a significant disruption in the job market, with employees seeking a change in their work-life balance. However, the rise of boomerang employees suggests that many individuals are reconsidering their decisions and returning to their former jobs. Building strong professional relationships, evaluating long-term prospects, and reflecting on one's career goals are essential when considering a return to a previous employer. As the landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how this trend unfolds and whether the "double hop" phenomenon outweighs the number of boomerang employees.