Leaving a job is rarely an easy decision, but most professionals make at least one career switch during their working lives. For some, though, that move turns out not to be permanent — and they eventually find themselves returning to a former employer.
These returning workers are known as “boomerang” employees. It’s a fitting term: Much like its namesake, a boomerang employee circles back to the place they once left.
But is returning to a former workplace actually a good career move? USC Online spoke with the Senior Director of Alumni and Student Career Services, Lori Shreve Blake from the USC Career Center to learn more about the growing “boomerang” trend — and what it can mean for your professional growth.
What Is a Boomerang Employee?
A boomerang employee is someone who leaves their job only to later return to the organization. They may return to a similar role or take on a different one entirely, and it may be after a period of years or just a few short months. Either way, much like its namesake, the boomerang — a tool that you throw only to have it return to you — the employee comes back to the company after a hiatus.
Just like there are countless reasons someone might leave a job, there are just as many reasons they might return. Sometimes, a new company doesn’t live up to expectations, and the familiarity of a former workplace feels appealing. In other cases, professionals gain new skills and spot an opportunity to return to a higher-level position. Some may notice positive changes in leadership or company culture and feel the timing is right to come back. Others may need the benefits the former employer provided or miss the company’s culture.
What Are the Benefits of Being a Boomerang Employee?
For employees, returning to a former workplace — or “boomeranging” — can offer significant benefits. You’re coming back to a familiar environment where you already understand the culture and workflows. The adjustment period is easier, you don’t have to build relationships from scratch, and you already have much of the organizational knowledge needed to succeed.
Leaving can also accelerate your career growth. When you return, it’s often at a higher level — and with a higher salary — making it a brilliant career management move.
“Sometimes the best way to move up is to step out. If you’ve been with the same employer for years, promotions can stall or advancement may feel slow. But if you leave for a higher-level position elsewhere and then later return, you can reenter that organization at a higher title, better salary, or with more flexibility than you ever could have negotiated internally,” said Shreve Blake.
Employers can benefit too, Shreve Blake noted. Boomerang employees bring new knowledge, abilities, and perspectives gained from other roles. Employers often appreciate this added dimension because boomerangers enrich their previous positions with fresh capabilities that can benefit the entire organization.
Plus, bringing on a former employee can be less risky than a brand-new hire. They may have a track record of success.
“From an employer’s perspective, a boomerang employee is a known quantity. You’re not starting from scratch. You already understand the company’s culture, its systems, and, in many cases, even its client base. That means you can hit the ground running with less training and onboarding. Employers also know your track record: If you were a top performer before, they can feel confident you’ll deliver again. In that way, hiring a former employee can feel like a lower-risk, higher-reward decision for organizations,” Shreve Blake advised. Remember, managers are hired to make good hiring decisions for the organization.
What Are the Downsides of Being a Boomerang Employee?
Of course, returning isn’t always the right move. You may find that the same issues that once frustrated you still exist, leading to renewed dissatisfaction. Or, even if the opportunity is a step forward, it can feel like a step backward, which can affect your confidence.
Some employers might also question your long-term commitment. If you’ve left before, they may hesitate to bring you back, or you might feel pressure not to go again.
Ultimately, Shreve Blake emphasized, professionalism is what matters most.
“The number-one rule in career management is this: Never burn bridges. If you leave on good terms, you may one day find the door open to return — sometimes in a more interesting role and a better level than when you left. But if you stormed out or left a trail of bad relationships, you may have closed off valuable opportunities forever,” she said. “Even when you resign, it’s essential to stay professional, give proper notice and leave with grace because you never know when you might want — or need — to cross back over that bridge.”
What Are Tips for Boomerang Employees?
If you’re considering returning to a former workplace, take time to reflect. While boomeranging can be a win-win, it’s essential to ensure it aligns with your current goals.
“Boomeranging isn’t about going backward — it’s about aligning with where you are in life right now,” Shreve Blake said. “Maybe you need more stability, maybe you’re seeking leadership opportunities, or maybe you value flexibility as you balance family, wellness and career. Whatever the case, going back should feel like the next right step in your journey, not just a repeat of the past,” Shreve Blake said.
If you decide to return, approach the process with confidence. Highlight the skills and knowledge you’ve gained and be transparent during interviews about your expectations. If there were challenges that caused you to leave, ask candidly how things have evolved since then.
Once you’re back, build new positive relationships and be mindful of existing ones. Some colleagues might wonder if you’ll leave again or recall past frustrations. Focus on rebuilding trust and on showing why you were — and still are — a great fit for the team. Also, being a boomerang employee does not mean you go back to the same office or division. You may decide on a new opportunity in a different business vertical.
The Bottom Line
Being a boomerang employee isn’t a setback; it can be a strategic career move. By leaving and returning, you can advance your career, bring new insights to your employer, and strengthen both your personal and professional growth.
Just make sure you’re returning for the right reasons — and not stepping back into a situation that will make you unhappy. Otherwise, you might find yourself needing to “Frisbee” away instead of “boomeranging” back.
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