Nanci writes:
What is the best way to go about re-applying for a job at a company I left four years ago? I left on very good terms and always got good reviews. Downside is the company put a lot of money into my relocation package, and I am afraid that they will be worried I will leave again. I thought the grass was greener, but I realize now what a great company they were and I want back in. Any suggestions?
Thanks! I wanna go back!
The Career Doctor responds:
In the past, I would have told you that you were out of luck. Employers didn’t like to hire back employees who chose to leave on their own — no matter how good they were. But times have changed, as has the workforce, and these days employers are much more willing to give top-notch former employees a second chance.
Assuming you have kept in contact with a few of your former co-workers or boss, I would start there. Even better, if you have a mentor who still works there. If you have not kept in touch with anyone, then your job is going to be a little harder. Your situation is a good reminder to everyone reading that you always want to stay in touch with former co-workers because you never know when some situation such as this one will arise.
Ask about your reputation at the company. Is it as good as you think or are you seen as a traitor for abandoning the firm? If you do still have a good buzz around the office, the next step would be to have someone float the idea of you coming back and see how management reacts. This tactic is best handled at a staff meeting or some regular kind of gathering. If the reaction is neutral or better, then you have your answer to proceed; if there is a strong negative reaction, it’s probably best to move on.
