Boomerang employees have been gaining appeal—and with good reason.
These individuals left their employers for various reasons, then returned to work for the same organization later in their careers. The phenomenon is on the rise, with studies indicating that nearly 15% of employees are boomerangs and 63% of organizations embrace the concept of rehiring a former employee. The benefits are many, including reduced onboarding time, increased productivity, and continuity of company culture. Understanding the significance of returning talent, it becomes important for organizations to foster an environment that not only encourages their return but ensures they feel welcomed.
Please read on to learn more about the value boomerang employees offer and some smart ideas for creating a warm welcome for them.
In many ways, boomerang employees have a leg up on new hires.
Even if they’re taking on a new role, they already know the company’s processes, technologies, and lingo, so they require less ramp-up time and training to become fully productive. It’s an alluring proposition, and that’s why organizations that don’t have a formal rehiring program should start one now. Certain actions can be especially helpful in creating a landscape that nurtures bringing former employees back on board, such as:
- Making offboarding as important as onboarding. When an employee is leaving, take the opportunity to part ways on the best possible terms. Celebrating the next chapter of their career and wishing them well goes a long way in solidifying positive relations.
- Creating an alumni network. Alumni networks on platforms such as LinkedIn and Facebook can be powerful recruiting tools. Not only can they connect companies with former employees, but they are also a great source of candidate referrals. To make the most of an alumni network, regularly update its page with interesting company news and job openings.
- Reaching out directly. Don’t wait to hear from former employees. Make a point of checking in with past top performers who have indicated that they would be receptive to the outreach. When an appropriate opening becomes available, reach out, engage with them, and ask them to consider returning. Sometimes that’s all it takes.
Roll out the welcome mat. Consider these four strategies to extend a warm welcome to returning talent:
- Create thorough onboarding/reorientation programs
While they may be familiar with your company culture, changes may have occurred during their absence. Customize the onboarding process to provide rehires with updates on any organizational shifts and to refresh their understanding of current and updated procedures. Be sure to introduce any new technologies that may have been added during their absence. Ensuring rehires are up-to-date will allow them to feel more comfortable and confident in their roles. - Provide skill enhancement opportunities
Offering skill enhancement opportunities to boomerang employees demonstrates your commitment to their ongoing development. This might involve access to training programs, workshops, or certifications relevant to their roles. Ensure that boomerang employees are thoroughly trained on the latest technologies being utilized, as well. Providing access to refresher courses or workshops can help people seamlessly reintegrate into their positions. - Promote flexibility and work-life balance
In some cases, employees leave an organization or return seeking a better work-life balance. As much as possible, demonstrate flexibility in work arrangements company-wide and in accommodating individual needs to showcase your commitment to employee well-being. If these benefits are new or have recently been enhanced, be sure to point out your company’s newfound dedication to fostering a healthy and supportive work environment. - Conduct regular feedback sessions
As with any employee, it’s important for managers to regularly check in with boomerang workers. Conduct feedback sessions with returning employees to understand their expectations, experiences, and suggestions for improvement. This not only provides valuable insights but also reaffirms your company’s dedication to continuous enhancement.
Boomerang employees present a unique opportunity for organizations to tap into the wealth of experience and skills within their talent pool. By implementing these smart strategies, you can create an environment that not only welcomes boomerang employees back into the fold but ensures their continued success and satisfaction.
Embrace the return for former employees and watch your workforce flourish. Ready to apply these principles in your organization? The HR Team is here to help! Please reach out to our friendly, experienced professionals to learn more.
About The HR Team: Founded in 1996, The HR Team is a Maryland-based human resources outsourcing firm committed to developing strategic, customized solutions that respond to the unique needs and cultures of organizations of all types and sizes. Available as a one-source alternative to an in-house HR department or on an à la carte project basis, the company’s flexible service models address the full spectrum of HR needs that many organizations struggle to address. The HR Team helps clients achieve their highest level of success by providing value-driven human resources services that leave them time to focus on what they do best: directing business growth and profitability. Headquartered in Columbia, Maryland, the firm serves all of Maryland, Washington, DC, and Virginia. To learn more about The HR Team, call 410.381.9700 or visit https://www.thehrteam.com/.
