What are boomerang employees?
Boomerang employees are individuals who leave a company and later return to work for the same organization.
They are called 'boomerang' employees because, like a boomerang, they come back after some time away.
This phenomenon is becoming more common as professionals seek new experiences or opportunities but later choose to return to their previous employer, often bringing back valuable skills and knowledge gained elsewhere.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the boomerang employee syndrome?
Boomerang Employee Syndrome also refers to the phenomenon where employees leave an organization only to return to work for the same employer at a later time.
This trend, or “syndrome” is becoming more common as the stigma around returning to a previous employer diminishes!
What is the Boomerang Principle in People Management Skills?
It is the practice of maintaining positive relationships with former employees with the intention of potentially rehiring them in the future.
This principle recognizes the value that former employees can bring when they return with enhanced skills and broader experiences.
HR can ensure this by making sure that employees leave on good terms, with a clear and supportive offboarding process, as it increases the likelihood of them returning in the future.
Maintaining an alumni network helps keep former employees engaged with the company and also makes it easier to bring them back when opportunities arise.
Plus, keeping lines of communication open with former employees ensures that they feel welcome to return and are aware of new opportunities within the company.
Why would a company consider rehiring boomerang employees?
Companies should consider rehiring boomerang employees because they bring familiarity, proven track record, new skills & perspectives, and contribute to employee morale To elaborate,
Boomerang employees are already familiar with the company culture, values, and processes, which can reduce the time and resources needed for onboarding.
These employees have a known performance history, making it easier to predict their future contributions.
Having worked elsewhere, boomerang employees can bring fresh ideas, new skills, and diverse perspectives that can benefit the company.
Rehiring former employees can boost morale by demonstrating that the company values and welcomes back talented individuals.Having worked elsewhere, boomerang employees can bring fresh ideas, new skills, and diverse perspectives that can benefit the company.
What are the benefits of hiring boomerang employees?
If the companies play their cards right, there are several unique benefits that boomerang employees bring.
Since boomerang employees require less onboarding and training, companies can save time and money in the recruitment process.
Familiarity with the company allows boomerang employees to hit the ground running, leading to faster integration and increased productivity.
Their return can signal to current employees that the organization is a great place to work, potentially boosting overall retention rates.
Existing relationships with colleagues can facilitate smoother collaboration and communication.
Boomerang employees may feel a renewed commitment to the company, having seen firsthand that the grass is not always greener on the other side. This can translate into longer tenure and lower turnover rates.
Boomerang employees can act as bridges to new networks, customers, or business partners they have interacted with during their time away from the company.
Returning employees often bring new skills, experiences, and perspectives gained from their time away.
Are there any challenges with rehiring boomerang employees?
Unfortunately, yes.
Understanding why the employee left in the first place is crucial. If the issues that caused them to leave are not addressed, they might leave again.
Reintroducing a former employee can sometimes disrupt existing team dynamics, especially if there were unresolved issues or conflicts.
Boomerang employees might have higher expectations regarding their role, compensation, or career advancement, which need to be managed carefully.
