The recruitment world has recently seen an innovation in terms of practices. We are hearing more and more about the Boomerang effect on companies. This strategy involves rehiring a former employee who left a few years ago and who has always remained of interest to the employer in question. Boomerang hiring presents itself as an excellent solution for companies, and for several reasons. Let’s discuss the most significant ones.
A better understanding of the candidates
Rehiring a former employee ensures that you have someone you already know within your ranks. This (ideally) helps avoid unpleasant surprises and allows you to recruit a candidate who already has a history with your organization. The choice becomes simpler and faster. The strengths and weaknesses of the employee are known, which eliminates a significant portion of the uncertainty inherent in the recruitment process.
A smoother integration
Boomerang recruitment is also an ideal practice to facilitate the integration of the new hire, as they are already familiar with the company. They won’t face adaptation issues in their environment and will likely know many of the team members, especially if they left the company recently.
This also allows for a faster and less burdensome onboarding and integration process. In some cases, an upskilling might be necessary, especially if the employee has changed roles. However, in general, the employee will be operational immediately or almost immediately.
A reduction in costs and time.
It is well known that the recruitment process is often long and costly. Boomerang recruitment comes with a significant reduction in recruitment costs and time.
The time spent searching for a new candidate is significantly reduced, as are the resources required. Sourcing, skills assessment, and reference checks are all bypassed in favor of optimal efficiency.
Enhanced employee engagement
A company that is able to rehire former employees is one that demonstrates strong values and possesses a solid corporate culture. Boomerang recruitment is proof of the strong ties maintained with former staff.
Most importantly, it reflects the health of your employer brand. Your current teams, in addition to being happy to work again with the returning employee, will feel more engaged and less inclined to leave your organization. If their colleague came back, it means the grass isn’t greener elsewhere…
New skills available
With boomerang recruitment, you benefit from the return of a more experienced employee, now equipped with new knowledge and skills. The months—or even years—spent away have undoubtedly contributed to their growth.
They then become an asset to your company. They may even bring a fresh perspective to your organization and, why not, be a source of new ideas. The experiences they gained while away from your company can work to your advantage.
Heightened motivation
No matter why the employee left—what truly matters is their return. And one thing is certain: they’ll be motivated to prove themselves and to live up to the trust you’ve placed in them once again.
Grateful for the opportunity, they’ll be driven by an even stronger desire to perform well. Their enthusiasm will serve as a source of motivation—not just for themselves, but for their colleagues as well.