Should You Go Back? What to Consider Before Returning to a Former Employer

Maybe you left for a better offer. Maybe life changed. Or maybe things just didn’t work out the way you hoped. Now, the opportunity to return to a former employer is on the table—and you’re wondering: should I go back?

In the world of agriculture, where tight-knit teams, regional roots, and long-term relationships are common, returning to a former employer—becoming a “boomerang employee”—is more common than ever. But just because you can go back doesn’t mean you should. Here’s how to decide if it’s the right move for you.

1. Revisit Why You Left

Start by asking yourself: why did I leave in the first place?

• Was it the culture?
• A lack of growth?
• Poor leadership or communication?
• Or simply a personal or situational decision?

 

If the reasons you left are still present, going back may set you up for the same frustrations. But if the circumstances have genuinely changed—new leadership, a different role, better alignment—then returning could be a smart and strategic move.

2. Look at What’s Changed—On Both Sides

Your perspective is different now—and so is theirs. Think about:

• What’s new with the company? Have values, processes, or personnel shifted in ways that align better with you?
• What’s new with you? Do you bring new skills, insights, or maturity that could help you succeed in ways you couldn’t before?

 

The key is not to go back to the same job, but to return to something better—for both parties.

3. Check Your Motives

Ask yourself honestly:

• Are you returning because you miss the team and believe in the work?
• Or are you feeling discouraged, stuck, or nostalgic?

 

There’s nothing wrong with wanting stability—but going back should be a choice made with clarity, not desperation.

4. Think About the Long-Term Fit

Boomerang roles can be a great way to reignite your career—if there’s real potential for long-term satisfaction. Look at:

• Growth potential in the role or organization
• Whether the culture now aligns with your values and work style
• How your return would be perceived by colleagues (and how you’ll handle that)

 

Going back can be empowering, but make sure it supports your long-term career goals—not just a short-term fix.

5. Have the Right Conversation

Before saying yes, have an honest conversation with your potential manager or HR contact. Ask:

• What’s changed since I left?
• Why are you interested in bringing me back now?
• What are the expectations for this role moving forward?

 

Clarity and transparency on both sides can prevent any assumptions or misalignment.

Final Thoughts

Returning to a former employer can be a smart move—especially if you’re entering a new chapter, not repeating an old one. If the role is right, the timing is good, and the lessons of the past are guiding your decision, a boomerang opportunity might just be the career comeback you didn’t know you needed.

That said, deciding whether to return is a lot like evaluating a counter-offer—it requires honesty, objectivity, and a long-term view. If you’re weighing your options, you might find our resource helpful:
🔗 Should You Accept a Counter-Offer? Here’s What to Consider

Still unsure? Grasslands Recruitment Specialists can help you think it through with industry-specific insight and confidential guidance tailored to your goals.