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Why Do Many People Want to Return to Their Former Company After Leaving?

Do you know why so many people want to return to their old jobs even after quitting?

11 September, 2024

Regret and Nostalgia

It’s common for people to complain about their new company and reminisce about how great their old one was. But if that’s the case, why did they leave? This type of thinking stems from a greedy mindset, where people don’t appreciate what they have until it’s gone.

It’s only when they don’t get what they want from some aspect of the new company that they start thinking about the good old days. Of course, this is just temporary. It’s like when someone’s current partner isn’t as good as their ex in some way; they might start to long for the good qualities of their ex and regret leaving.

Looking Back with Rose-Tinted Glasses

When people become dissatisfied with their new company, they tend to compare it to the good old days at their previous employer. They remember the fun times with colleagues, the sense of accomplishment from completing projects and receiving generous bonuses, and the various activities organized by the company…

This nostalgia can be powerful, making them long to return to their old work environment.

Struggling to Adapt to the New Company

Starting at a new company means adapting to a new culture and getting to know new colleagues. This process can take time and may not always be smooth sailing. On top of that, you might even encounter bullying from your new coworkers.

In contrast, the old company was familiar and comfortable, with no one pushing you around. So, when faced with challenges in the new job, it’s understandable that people might be tempted to return to their previous employer.

Longing for the Old Company’s Culture and Values

Each company has its unique culture and values, which deeply influence employees’ work experiences and professional growth. When employees find resonance in the culture and values of their previous company, they may feel lost after leaving and yearn to return to that familiar environment.

Missing Former Colleagues and Bosses

It’s common for employees to form close friendships with their colleagues. When they leave, they may feel lonely and long for the good old days with their old teammates. This sense of longing can be so strong that they consider returning to their former company just to reconnect with their old colleagues.

Frequently asked questions

There are several reasons why an employee might want to return to their old job. They may have realized that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side and that their previous company offered better benefits, work-life balance, or job satisfaction. They may also miss the sense of belonging and familiarity that comes with working for a company they know well.

Returning to a former company can have its advantages. The employee may already be familiar with the company’s culture, policies, and procedures, which can make the transition back smoother. They may also have established relationships with colleagues and clients, which can make it easier to resume their work.

To increase the chances of being rehired, it’s important to leave on good terms and maintain a positive relationship with the company. Keep in touch with former colleagues and stay up-to-date with the company’s developments. If possible, try to highlight how your skills and experiences gained since leaving could benefit your former employer.

One potential downside is that returning employees may find themselves typecast in their old roles, with limited opportunities for growth or promotion. It’s also possible that the company’s culture or dynamics may have changed, and it may no longer be a good fit for the returning employee.

To make the most of returning to a previous job, it’s important to approach it with a fresh perspective. Be open to learning new things and adapting to any changes that may have occurred during your absence. Seek feedback and be proactive in finding ways to contribute to the company’s success.