A boomerang career refers to the practice of professionals who leave a company only to return later, often in a better position or with a higher salary.
This trend has become more common in recent years, with both employees and employers recognizing the potential benefits.
But is going back to an old job always a good idea? In this guide, we’ll explore why people choose this path, the advantages and disadvantages, and when it makes sense. Keep reading!
What is a boomerang career?
As we mentioned earlier, a boomerang career happens when an employee leaves a company and later returns, sometimes in the same role but often with a promotion or better benefits.
Unlike traditional job changes, where professionals move on permanently, boomerang workers come back because of improved conditions, better pay, or personal reasons.
This career path is particularly common in industries with specialized skills, such as technology, finance, and consulting, where companies prefer rehiring experienced people rather than training new staff.
Reasons why people leave and return to their jobs
People don’t always leave a company because they’re unhappy.
Sometimes, they leave to explore new opportunities, gain experience, or for personal motives. But what brings them back?
Better opportunities
Many professionals leave for a higher salary, better benefits, or more exciting projects elsewhere.
However, after gaining new skills and experience, they may find that their former employer can now offer them a more competitive package.
Personal reasons
Relocation, family responsibilities, or health concerns can influence a person’s decision to leave a job.
Later, when circumstances change, returning to a familiar workspace can be appealing.
Workplace improvements
Sometimes, workers leave due to a toxic work environment, bad management, or lack of career growth.
If the company improves its culture, leadership, or policies, former employees may feel comfortable coming back.
Pros of a boomerang career
This type of career has several benefits for both employees and employers.
Advantages for employees
Let’s take a look at some benefits for workers:
Higher salary and benefits
One of the biggest motivators for returning is a higher paycheck. Employees who return often negotiate better salaries and perks than if they had stayed.
Familiar environment
Adjusting to a new company can be stressful. Coming back to a known workplace eliminates the uncertainty of a new culture, making the transition smoother.
Career progression
Workers who leave and gain outside experience regularly return with stronger skills, which can position them for promotions or leadership roles.
Advantages for employers
It’s time to know the perks for employers:
Proven talent
Rehiring a former worker reduces the risk of hiring mistakes since the company already knows their skills, work ethics, and cultural fit.
Reduced training time
Boomerang employees need less onboarding and can quickly adapt to the role, saving time and resources.
Cons of a boomerang career
Despite the benefits, there are also some challenges to consider before making the decision to return.
Disadvantages for employees
Check out some of the difficulties workers may face:
Perception of instability
Leaving and coming back can make an employee look indecisive or unreliable, which could affect future career development.
Limited opportunities
While returning can offer short-term benefits, it may not always lead to long-term career advancement, especially if the company still lacks growth opportunities.
Difficult readjustment
The workplace may have changed since the worker left, with new policies, leadership, or coworkers making it harder to reintegrate.
Disadvantages for employers
Look at some drawbacks that employers may deal with:
Questionable loyalty
They might worry that a boomerang employee will leave again if a better offer comes along.
Potential resentment
Current workers may feel frustrated if a former employee returns with a higher salary or promotion, leading to workplace tension.
When does a boomerang career make sense?
Returning to a former employer can be a smart move when the company has genuinely improved its culture or management, and the new role offers clear career growth and not just a higher salary.
It’s also favorable if the employee has gained valuable experience that will benefit their career and there’s a strong professional relationship between the worker and the employee.
Conclusion
A boomerang career can be an interesting opportunity, but it’s not always the right choice.
While returning to a former company can lead to higher pay and career advancement, it’s important to evaluate if the workplace has changed for the better.
Before making a decision, professionals should consider their long-term goals and whether going back aligns with their path.