Have you ever found yourself longing for a job you once had that you thought you had left behind for good? Maybe you’re experiencing some regret or you’re just not happy where you are now. Regardless of the reason, it’s not too late to backtrack and ask for your old job back. In fact, it might just work in your favor, especially if you left on good terms. To make things even easier, there are plenty of sample emails available online that you can use as templates to get started. With just a few edits and tweaks, you could be on your way to successfully convincing your former employer to take you back. So why not give it a shot? The worst that can happen is they say no, but if you don’t try then you’ll never know.
The Perfect Structure for an Email Asking for Your Old Job Back
Asking for your old job back can be an awkward and difficult process. You may be unsure of how your previous employer will react, and you may feel uncertain about the best way to approach the situation. However, if you follow a few simple guidelines, you can increase your chances of success while making the process as smooth as possible.
The key to an effective email asking for your old job back is to keep it polite, professional, and concise. Your email should clearly explain why you left your previous position, why you want to return, and how you plan to add value to the company if you are given the opportunity to come back.
Here is a recommended structure that you can use to craft a professional and effective email asking for your old job back:
Start with a Polite Greeting
Begin your email with a polite greeting that addresses the person you are contacting by name. Keep it simple and professional, such as “Dear [Name]” or “Hello [Name].” If you aren’t sure who to address your email to, try looking on the company website or contacting the HR department for guidance.
Briefly Explain Why You Left
Next, briefly explain why you left your previous position. Keep your explanation honest, but avoid blaming your previous employer or being overly negative. Focus on the positive reasons why you left, such as wanting to explore new opportunities or gain different experiences.
Explain Why You Want to Return
After explaining why you left, it’s time to explain why you want to return. Be specific and genuine in your reasoning for wanting to come back to the company. Perhaps you loved the company culture, enjoyed working with your team, or appreciated the company’s mission. Whatever your reason, make sure to convey your enthusiasm for the company and why it’s important to you personally.
Show How You Can Add Value
Now, it’s time to show how you can add value to the company if you are given the opportunity to return. Think about how your skills and experiences have grown or changed since you left, and how they could benefit the company. Consider specific projects or initiatives that you could contribute to, or ways that you could help improve the company’s bottom line.
Thank Them for Their Time and Consideration
Finally, end your email with a polite thank you for their time and consideration. Offer to answer any questions they may have and let them know that you are available to discuss the possibility of returning in more detail if they are interested. Keep your tone positive and professional throughout the email.
By using this structure, you can create an effective email that presents you in the best possible light while showing your interest in and enthusiasm for the company. With a little attention to detail and a lot of good communication skills, you can successfully ask for your old job back and start creating a bright future with your previous employer once again.
Emails Requesting Old Job Back
Recovering from Illness
Hello [Manager’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to reach out regarding an opportunity to potentially return to my previous position at [Company’s Name]. Due to an unforeseen illness, I had to take a leave of absence and focus on my recovery. After following a treatment plan, I am thrilled to say that my health has significantly improved, and I am ready to return to work.
I appreciated the support and understanding I received during my time with [Company’s Name], and I believe the skills and experience I gained while working there would make me a valuable asset to the team once again. I am excited about the prospect of working alongside familiar colleagues and being part of the [Company’s Name] community once again.
Thank you for your consideration and please let me know if there is any further information or documentation I can provide to support my return.
Best Regards,
[Your Name]
Changes in Personal Circumstances
Dear [Manager’s Name],
It’s been such a long time since I left [Company’s Name], yet I still cherish all the amazing work experiences that I gained while working there. I am reaching out today with a request to potentially rejoin your team. Unfortunately, due to some unforeseen personal circumstances that have now been resolved, I had to leave my position at [Company’s Name].
I have always enjoyed the friendly work environment and the sense of community that is unique to [Company’s Name]. My previous experience and familiarity with the company would allow for a smooth reintroduction to the team, while also offering valuable insights that could benefit the company.
I would be thrilled to connect with you or any decision-maker at [Company’s Name] to further explore the possibilities of returning to the company and contributing to the growth and success of the team.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best Regards,
[Your Name]
Missed the Working Environment
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I hope this email reaches you well. I am reaching out to explore the possibility of returning to my previous position at [Company’s Name]. The reason for my return request is simply the fact that I missed the working environment and the stimulating challenges that came with my role at [Company’s Name].
During the time that I worked for [Company’s Name], I had valuable experiences and acquired skills that I believe would allow me to continue to contribute to the growth and success of the company. I am excited about the prospect of contributing to new projects and working alongside the team that shared similar work ethics and aspirations.
Thank you for considering my request to rejoin your team at [Company’s Name], and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best Regards,
[Your Name]
Made a Mistake
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I know it’s been a while since my departure, but I hope all is well with you. I am emailing today to see if there are any openings at [Company’s Name]. You see, I left the company under not so great circumstance that created a ripple effect on the team, and I have been kicking myself for it ever since.
Having had some time to reflect on what happened, I realize now that I was at my best while working for your company. I have analyzed, learned, and made the necessary changes to ensure that errors like those never happen again. My intention for wanting to return is to put the past behind me and contribute to [Company’s Name] in a meaningful way.
If there is anything that I can do to make a strong case for my return, then please do not hesitate to let me know. I would be honored to return to work for the company and pick up where I left off.
Thank you for your time and attention to this request.
Best Regards,
[Your Name]
Just Graduated and Eyeing Previous Job
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I hope this email finds you doing well. I am writing to express my interest in rejoining the team at [Company’s Name]. Since my departure from the company as a [Previous Role] in [Year], I have acquired new skills and experiences that I believe will benefit your company.
Having just completed my degree and furthering my knowledge through applicable internships and volunteer work, I can confidently state that I have learned a tremendous amount that I’d love to implement while working for [Company’s Name] again. As someone who has had the opportunity to get hands-on experience with the latest technology and techniques, I believe that I have accumulated valuable knowledge and insight that would be a priceless asset to the team.
Thank you for giving me the time and space required to pursue my further studies, and I hope that I can rejoin the [Company’s Name] team once again and continue to learn and grow with you.
Regards,
[Your Name]
Returning after a Sabbatical
Hello [Manager’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. As someone that contributed to the success of [Company’s Name] for several years, I am reaching out to explore the possibility of returning after a sabbatical. I took a break to focus on personal growth and took up some relevant courses that would help me grow and contribute to the company in a more significant capacity.
Since my time away, I have taken up specialized courses in [Skills or courses taken], which has provided me with valuable knowledge and increased my creativity. These skills have also prepared me to take on new challenges and provide the best possible solutions to any problem. I am excited and rearing to join back into the incredible work environment of [Company’s Name] and contribute to projects and day-to-day activities.
I appreciate your time and look forward to hearing from you. Thank you for considering my request.
Best Regards,
[Your Name]
Following Passion for the Job at Previous Employer
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I hope this email finds you doing well. I am writing to inquire if there are any current open positions at [Company’s Name]. After some time away, I have come to realize that I have a genuine passion for the work we did while I was employed [Previous Position] with [Company’s Name].
Since departing, I have made it my mission to grow, gain new experience, and hone the necessary skills required to excel in this industry. With my new skillset, coupled with the knowledge that I gained while working for [Company’s Name], my passion for working for the company has only increased.
Thank you for taking the time to consider my request to return to [Company’s Name], and I eagerly look forward to hearing from you.
Kind Regards,
[Your Name]
Tips for Asking for your Old Job Back
There may come a time when you regret leaving your previous job, or realize that it was the best fit for you, and want to ask for your old job back. Here are some tips on how to make your request in a professional and effective manner:
1. Be honest about your reasons for leaving and wanting to come back. Whether it was personal or professional reasons, it’s important to be transparent and straightforward with your previous employer. Explain why you left, what you’ve learned since leaving, and why you think your old job would be a better fit for you now.
2. Reach out to your former boss or HR representative. If possible, it’s best to speak with the person you worked with directly when asking for your old job back. If that’s not possible, do some research and find out who the best point of contact would be.
3. Highlight what you accomplished in your previous role. Remind your former employer of the valuable contributions you made while working there and how you were an asset to the team. Having specific examples of what you achieved will help to make your case stronger and show that you are serious about coming back.
4. Show that you’ve kept up-to-date with the company. If you’ve been following the company’s recent news or developments, mention this in your request. It shows that you have a genuine interest in the company, and are committed to keeping up-to-date with what is happening there.
5. Be prepared to negotiate. If you’re asking for your old job back, you must be open to discussing the terms of your employment. This could include your salary, benefits, and responsibilities. Be ready to compromise and find a solution that works for both parties.
6. Prepare for the worst-case scenario. While you may be confident that your old employer will welcome you back with open arms, there is always the possibility that they may reject your request. Have a back-up plan in case this happens, and be prepared to move on if necessary.
Asking for your old job back can be a nerve-wracking experience, but by following the above tips, you can increase your chances of success. Remember to approach the situation in a professional and respectful manner, and to be upfront about your reasons for wanting to come back. Good luck!
Frequently Asked Questions About Asking for Your Old Job Back
Can I really ask for my old job back?
Yes, you certainly can. Just make sure that you handle the situation professionally and respectfully!
What should I say in my email to ask for my old job back?
Be sure to express your gratitude for the opportunity to work there in the past, highlight any relevant skills or experience you have gained since you left, and explain why you are interested in returning.
Do I need to provide a reason for leaving my old job?
It’s not necessary, but it can be helpful to provide some context. This can help your former employer understand why you left and be more receptive to the idea of bringing you back on board.
How long should I wait before contacting my old employer about returning?
It’s generally a good idea to wait at least a few months before reaching out, especially if you left on a less-than-ideal note. However, there’s no hard and fast rule – use your best judgment.
What can I do to increase the chances of my old employer saying yes?
Try to make it clear that you’re genuinely interested in coming back and that you’ve thought through your decision. Highlight any new skills or experience you’ve gained since leaving, and be sure to express your gratitude for the opportunity to work there in the past.
What if my old employer isn’t interested in bringing me back?
Don’t take it personally – there could be any number of reasons why they’re not interested. Just focus on moving forward and finding a job that’s a good fit for you.
Is it a good idea to contact my old employer if I was fired?
In most cases, it’s better to focus on finding a new job rather than trying to return to one that didn’t work out. However, there are always exceptions – if you genuinely believe that you can address whatever issues led to your firing and thrive in the role, it might be worth reaching out.
Sincerely yours,
Thanks for taking the time to read about my experience in sending a sample email asking for an old job back. I hope this could give you an idea of how to approach an employer for a second chance. Remember to keep your message concise, respectful, and to the point. It’s crucial to let them see how committed and valuable you are to the company. Good luck in your career and visit again soon for more helpful tips!