How to Ask for a Job Back

Perhaps that great new job hasn't turned out to be that great, or you've found that an hour-long commute isn't worth $10,000 more per year. Whatever your reason, there are times that you might just decide that the smartest thing you can do is ask for your old job back. Depending on how and why you left your old job, convincing your company to rehire you may not be easy, but if you are truly unhappy in your new position, a call or meeting to your old employer just may solve your problems.

Instructions

1. Call a former coworker that you can trust and ask if your job has been filled or if there is a similar job available. Ask her what she feels the reaction would be if you asked for your pld job back.

2. Decide if you will approach your former supervisor in person or on the phone to discuss getting your previous position back. If you are very nervous, a phone call might be easier and you'll be able to quickly end the call if things don't go your way.

3. Practice the conversation that you intend to have with your former supervisor with a friend. Be very humble; mention how much you enjoyed working for the company. Explain that you only left because the new job offered more opportunities or benefits, but that you have discovered that these opportunities haven't quite materialized. Finish by asking if there are currently any opportunities available in the company. When you can deliver your request smoothly, get in touch with your supervisor.

4. Ask if it is a good time for your call if you are requesting your job back over the telephone. If you would like to meet with a former supervisor, suggest a time when you know that the office won't be overly busy.

5. Write down the key points of your speech and review them while you make the phone call to your former supervisor. If you are meeting your supervisor in person, review your notes beforehand to prepare yourself.

6. Start the conversation by saying that you appreciate your supervisor's time. After you deliver your practiced statement, finish the conversation by mentioning your previous dedication to your company and explain that you intend to stay with the company long-term if you are given your old job back. Since you've left once, your boss may be concerned that you are more likely to resign again soon.

7. Prepare yourself for rejection. Even if your supervisor would like to offer you a job, there may not be an opening at that time. Opening lines of communications with your supervisor can still be helpful, as he might consider you for a job when there is an opening or may be able to recommend you for a similar position at another company.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want an employer to have a good impression of you after you've left for a new job, give appropriate notice when you resign, finish projects and maintain a cordial relationship with coworkers. You're much more likely to be rehired if you've left a positive impression on everyone in your department.

References

• Workopolis Advice
• MSNBC Article on Getting a Job Back