A boomerang employee is an individual who leaves a company for a period of time and then returns to work for the same company again. This term is derived from the concept of a boomerang, which is a curved throwing stick that returns to the person who threw it. Similarly, a boomerang employee “returns” to their previous employer after a period of absence.
This term is often used in the context of human resources and employee retention. Boomerang employees are becoming increasingly common in today’s workforce, as more companies are open to rehiring former employees. This trend is driven by various factors, such as the tight labor market, the desire for experienced and familiar talent, and the potential cost savings of rehiring a known employee.
Boomerang employees can bring unique benefits to a company, as they already have knowledge of the company’s culture, processes, and systems. They may also have gained new skills and experiences during their time away, making them a valuable asset to the company upon their return. Additionally, rehiring a former employee can save the company time and resources on training and onboarding.
However, it is important for companies to carefully consider the reasons why an employee left in the first place and whether those issues have been resolved before rehiring them. It is also crucial for boomerang employees to have a clear understanding of their role and expectations upon their return, to avoid any potential conflicts or misunderstandings.
In summary, a boomerang employee is an individual who leaves a company and then returns to work for the same company at a later time. This term highlights the growing trend of companies rehiring former employees and the potential benefits and considerations associated with this practice.
