About 15 percent of ex-employees come back
How to smooth your return if you
don't like the new company
You may not know it, but a study by HR consultants and Workplace Trends shows that managers like to have ex-employees come back to the company.
It makes sense because former employees are familiar with the company and its operation. And they cost 10 percent less to train than new hires.
Writing in MONEY.COM magazine, workplace expert Steve Fiscusi has this tip for ex-workers who might want to return some day. Lay the groundwork now.
* Depart gracefully. Give more than two weeks notice, especially if you're a staffer. Say your reason for leaving is a new learning opportunity or higher salary. Say the new job is "different." Never say it's "better."
* Stay in touch. Maintain ties with bosses and colleagues over coffee or social media. To keep your name in play, help the former employer by sending great job candidates their way.
* Fiscusi recommends making the first move if you want to return. Don't be shy about it.
He says, "If you miss your old workplace and have kept ties, just swallow your pride and ask."
Also, have a good reason for your return and point out the new skills you've gained in the interim.
