Key Takeaways:
- Understand the reasons for wanting to rejoin a previous employer and ensure they are communicated clearly.
- Reflect on your previous departure and the value you now bring.
- Maintain a professional tone throughout the email and personalize your message.
- Follow a structured format, including a clear subject line, proper salutation, introduction, body, and conclusion.
- Provide an update on your professional growth since leaving.
- Be concise and respectful of the reader’s time.
- Use a template to get started, but customize it to your situation.
In today’s ever-evolving career landscape, it’s not uncommon for professionals to consider returning to a former employer. Whether it’s due to new opportunities, a change in management, or simply a realization that the past company aligns better with one’s career goals, reaching out can be a delicate endeavor.
Crafting a tactful and well-thought-out email can set the tone for a successful conversation. Here’s how to approach this communication with professionalism and poise.
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Step 1: Reflect on Your Departure and Reasons for Wanting to Return
Before drafting your email, consider why you left and why you wish to return. This self-reflection will help you articulate your reasons clearly and honestly in your message.
Reflective Points:
- Reason for leaving: Were you seeking growth, or did you leave on mutual terms?
- Current desire to return: Has the company grown? Do new opportunities align with your skills?
- What’s changed since you left: What new skills or experiences can you bring to the table?
Step 2: Start with a Clear Subject Line
Your subject line is your first impression. Make it direct and clear to catch your previous employer’s attention.
Examples of Subject Lines:
- “Interest in Rejoining [Company Name] – [Your Full Name]”
- “Exploring Opportunities to Return to [Company Name] – [Your Full Name]”
- “Inquiry about Opportunities for Former Employee – [Your Full Name]”
Step 3: Personalize the Salutation
Address the email to your former supervisor or a relevant decision-maker. Personalizing the salutation shows respect and attention to detail.
Examples of Salutations:
- “Dear [Manager’s Name],”
- “Hello [Manager’s Name],”
- “Hi [Team/Department Name], if writing to a group.”
Step 4: Write a Polished Introduction
In your opening paragraph, remind the recipient of who you are and your previous position within the company. Mention your time with the company and the date you left to jog their memory.
Introduction Example:
- “I hope this message finds you well. I am [Your Full Name], and I had the pleasure of working as a [Your Previous Job Title] at [Company Name] until [Your Departure Date].”
Step 5: Express Your Intent and Value
Clearly state your intention to rejoin and what you have to offer. Reference specific company goals or projects and how your skills can contribute.
Intent and Value Example:
- “I’ve been following [Company Name]’s growth, especially in [specific project or area], and I am excited about the potential to contribute to such initiatives with the additional skills I’ve acquired.”
Step 6: Provide an Update on Your Professional Growth
Since leaving the company, you should have gained new experiences and skills. Highlight these to show how you’ve grown since your last tenure.
Professional Growth Points:
- Any additional certifications or education.
- New skills or technologies you’ve mastered.
- Key projects or achievements in your most recent role.
Step 7: Be Concise and Respectful
Keep your email brief and to the point. Express your eagerness to discuss how you can add value to the company without overstepping or assuming there is an opening.
Step 8: Include a Soft Call to Action
Encourage the recipient to engage in a conversation with you. Suggest a meeting or phone call to discuss potential opportunities.
Call to Action Example:
- “I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to discuss my potential return to [Company Name]. Could we schedule a time to talk more about this?”
Step 9: Close with Professional Courtesy
Thank the recipient for considering your request and express your anticipation for a response.
Closing Example:
- “Thank you for considering my interest in rejoining [Company Name]. I am looking forward to your response.”
Step 10: Proofread and Send
Ensure your email is free of errors and sends the right message about your professionalism. Double-check that you have the correct recipient and subject line.
Email Template for Rejoining a Previous Employer
Subject: Exploring Rejoining Opportunities at [Company Name] – [Your Full Name]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Full Name], and I previously held the position of [Your Previous Job Title] at [Company Name] until [Your Departure Date]. I am reaching out to express my interest in returning to the company and contributing to its ongoing success.
During my time away, I have [briefly describe any new experience, skills, or training]. I believe these new skills align well with [Company Name]’s current direction, especially with regards to [mention any specific company initiative or project].
I would be grateful for the chance to discuss how my current skill set and experiences could serve the team at [Company Name]. Could we arrange a meeting or a phone call at your earliest convenience?
Thank you for considering my desire to come back to [Company Name]. I am looking forward to the possibility of discussing this with you.
Warm regards,
[Your Full Name] [Your Contact Information]
Tips for Writing Your Email:
- Personalize each email to the company and the manager.
- Reflect on any changes within the company since you left and tailor your message accordingly.
- Avoid discussing any negative experiences from your previous tenure.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What should be the subject line of the email to previous employer for rejoining?
Answer: The subject line of the email should be clear and concise, indicating your intention to rejoin the company. A suitable subject line could be: “Rejoining Inquiry: [Your Name]”.
Q: How should I begin the email to previous employer for rejoining?
Answer: Start the email with a professional and polite greeting, such as “Dear [Previous Employer’s Name],” or “Hello [Previous Employer’s Name],”. This sets a respectful tone for your message.
Q: How can I express my interest in rejoining the company in the email?
Answer: Clearly express your enthusiasm and genuine interest in rejoining the company. You can state something like, “I am writing to express my strong interest in returning to [Company Name] and exploring potential opportunities to rejoin the team.”
Q: What information should I include in the email regarding my previous tenure at the company?
Answer: Briefly mention your previous position, the duration of your employment, and any notable achievements or contributions you made during that time. This helps remind the employer of your past success and highlights your value as a potential rehire.
Q: Is it necessary to mention any developments or changes that may have occurred within the company since my departure?
Answer: Yes, it is beneficial to acknowledge that you are aware there may have been changes within the company. You can mention your willingness to discuss these developments and how they may affect your potential role. It shows your interest in staying updated and adapting to the current work environment.
Q: Should I attach my updated resume to the email?
Answer: Yes, it is recommended to attach your updated resume to provide a comprehensive overview of your skills, experiences, and any relevant updates since your previous employment. This helps the employer assess your qualifications and accomplishments.
Q: How can I suggest a meeting or further discussion about rejoining the company?
Answer: Towards the end of the email, express your availability for a meeting or phone call to discuss your potential return. Offer your contact information and mention that you are open to scheduling a convenient time to further explore opportunities.
Q: How should I conclude the email?
Answer: End the email on a positive note by expressing gratitude for their consideration and indicating your excitement about the possibility of rejoining the company.
Sign off with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely,” or “Best regards,” followed by your full name.
Q: How long should the email be?
Answer: Keep the email concise and to the point, ideally fitting within one to two paragraphs. Provide enough relevant information to pique the employer’s interest, but avoid overwhelming them with excessive details.