What is a Boomerang Employee?

A boomerang employee is a worker who leaves an organization but later returns to work for the same employer, often after having gained additional skills or experience elsewhere. This term is commonly used in both permanent and temporary staffing contexts.

For temporary staffing, a boomerang employee could refer to someone who worked as a temp in the past and returns for another assignment. They often require less training and can hit the ground running, making them a valuable resource for employers.

Why it’s Important

Boomerang employees can be an asset to temporary staffing agencies and employers, as they bring familiarity with company culture, policies, and expectations. Employers can quickly re-integrate these employees into the workforce, reducing training time and enhancing productivity.

Boomerang Employee in Practice

A company that had hired a temporary worker for a seasonal role might reach out to them again the following year when the same position opens up. The employee returns with knowledge of the company's systems and processes, allowing for a quicker start.

Benefits of Boomerang Employees

• Reduced Onboarding: Familiarity with company culture and systems means boomerang employees need less training.
• Experience: Boomerang employees bring fresh skills and perspectives after working elsewhere.
• Loyalty: Returning employees may show greater commitment to the organization, having returned after a previous stint.

Best Practices for Managing Boomerang Employees

• Maintain Communication: Stay in touch with former temporary workers to keep the door open for future opportunities.
• Offer Incentives: Consider offering incentives for returning employees, such as referral bonuses or re-hire perks.
• Track Performance: Evaluate the effectiveness of re-hiring boomerang employees by monitoring their performance on returning assignments.