Life has a funny way of throwing us curveballs, doesn’t it? One day you’re out of a job, and the next, your old boss is practically serenading you to return. It’s a scenario that can leave you feeling like the protagonist in a workplace dramedy, complete with dramatic pauses and contemplative stares into the distance. But when the credits roll, the question remains: should you go back to an old job that’s beckoning you with open arms?
You’ve been let go, or maybe you left on your own terms. You’ve moved on, or at least you thought you had. And then, out of the blue, your former boss is on the line, asking you to come back. It’s not just a casual ‘Hey, how’s it going?’ but a full-on recruitment effort. They want you, and they want you bad. It’s flattering, sure, but it’s also a bit awkward, isn’t it?
Negotiating Your Worth: Money, Benefits, and Flexibility
Let’s talk money. If you’re a software engineer, and you’re being wooed back for a mere $25 an hour, I’m going to stop you right there. That’s chump change, my friend. You should be looking at the market rate for your skills, which, depending on where you are, could be significantly higher. For instance, in Toronto, a junior developer can expect around $75k a year. If you’re being recruited, chances are you’re no junior. So, why not shoot for the stars and ask for a salary that reflects your worth? Think $100k a year. It sounds like a lot, but remember, you’re the one holding the cards this time.
It’s not just about the salary, is it? You want to make sure you’re not stepping back into the same old routine. So, let’s talk benefits. Flexibility in your start time, for instance, could be a game-changer. No more rushing to beat the clock every morning. And what about those employee benefits? Make sure they kick in from day one. You’ve been there, done that, and you shouldn’t have to wait out another probation period.
Here’s a juicy idea: a non-refundable signing bonus. They’ve shown their true colors once by letting you go, so why not make sure they have some skin in the game this time? A nice lump sum upon signing could be just the thing to ensure they think twice before showing you the door again.
Planning to Move: Keep Your Cards Close
But let’s not forget the elephant in the room – you’re planning to move in a few months. Should you tell them? I say, mum’s the word. You’re still technically unemployed in your new locale, and there’s no need to complicate matters. Keep that card close to your chest.
I know what you’re thinking. What about the optics? How will it look to future employers if you boomerang back to your old job? Well, it’s all about how you play it. If you make a triumphant return and stick around for a while, it could actually be a feather in your cap. It shows that you were valued, that you left an impression, and that you’re not afraid to revisit past opportunities if they align with your career goals.
Reassessing the Reasons You Left
You left for a reason. Have those reasons truly been addressed? Don’t just take your friends’ word for it. Do your homework, ask the tough questions, and make sure the landscape has really changed.
You’re not just a pawn in their game. You’re the queen on the chessboard, baby. You have the power to dictate the terms of your return – if you decide to return at all. It’s not about convenience or flattery; it’s about making a strategic move that benefits you.
Dealing with Persistent Offers: Be Firm but Polite
Let’s switch gears for a moment and talk about a different scenario. Imagine you’ve already left your job, and your old boss keeps pestering you to come back, even part-time. You’ve made it clear you’re not interested, but they just won’t let up. It’s like a bad ex that can’t take a hint. What do you do?
You’ve got options. You can be firm and reiterate your ‘no’ with the grace of a diplomat. Or, if you’re feeling particularly cheeky, you could set their emails to go straight to trash. Out of sight, out of mind, right? But let’s not burn bridges. A polite but firm response should suffice to get the message across.
Weigh Your Options and Know Your Worth
At the end of the day, whether you’re considering a return to your old stomping grounds or fending off unwanted advances, it’s all about setting boundaries and knowing your worth. Don’t let flattery cloud your judgment, and don’t settle for less than you deserve.
Should you go back to your old boss who’s now groveling at your feet? Only if it makes sense for you, your career, and your bank account. Negotiate like a pro, weigh your options, and whatever you decide, do it with confidence. After all, you’re not just any employee – you’re the one that got away, and they know it.
Navigating the waters of a potential job reunion requires a blend of savvy negotiation, self-awareness, and a touch of audacity. It’s not just about saying ‘yes’ or ‘no’; it’s about crafting a deal that’s too good to refuse or walking away with your head held high. Either way, you’re in control. So go on, make your move, and may the job market odds be ever in your favor.
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