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The Great Resignation: A Look at Employee Regret and Rehiring Trends
In the wake of the Great Resignation, over 47 million individuals left their jobs in 2021, sparking widespread changes in workplace dynamics. However, a recent study by Paychex reveals that a staggering 80 percent of these former employees now regret their decisions.
“It’s natural to feel unsettled in a new position, which often leads to nostalgia for the familiarity and relationships of a previous role,” explained Paul Rubenstein, chief people officer at Visier, a company specializing in workforce analytics.
The Honeymoon Period is Over
A significant 70 percent of participants in the Paychex survey expressed a desire to return to their former jobs. Interestingly, Generation Z appears to be the most affected demographic, showing higher levels of regret and increased mental health struggles.
Greg Barnett, chief people scientist at Energage, remarked, “As the initial excitement fades, employees confront a host of new stressors that can feel overwhelming, especially in unfamiliar environments. This is when feelings of regret often surface.” He noted that many employees are navigating these challenges without the support systems they had in their previous workplaces.
Given the competitive hiring landscape, companies are increasingly exploring the potential of bringing back boomerang employees. This practice can serve as a strategic advantage in attracting and retaining talent.
Paul Lewis, chief customer officer at Adzuna, emphasized that reengaging former employees can enhance a company’s reputation as a desirable workplace, especially in light of current staffing challenges.
Assessing the Return: Important Considerations
While the idea of rehiring former staff may seem appealing, it’s crucial for employers to carefully assess the reasons behind each individual’s departure. Barnett advises against rushing to rehire someone without a clear understanding of their motivations for returning.
“Human resources leaders must delve into why an individual is considering coming back,” he said. “Understanding these motivations will clarify if their return is beneficial for both the employee and the organization.”
A comprehensive offboarding process can provide valuable context regarding an ex-employee’s departure. Analyzing previous performance reviews and objectives may indicate whether the same role is still appropriate or if a different position might better align with their skills and aspirations.
Leslie Tarnacki, SHRM-SCP and chief HR executive at WorkForce Software, highlighted the importance of gauging a boomerang employee’s enthusiasm for reintegration. “It’s essential to differentiate between those genuinely eager to make a positive impact and those returning out of desperation,” she advised.
Compensation and Cultural Changes
Despite ongoing media coverage about job cuts, candidates today often hold the upper hand, as they seek higher salaries and benefits to combat inflation. This trend remains steadfast, with some individuals willing to take roles that may not align perfectly with their skills.
Barnett advocated for early discussions surrounding compensation during rehire negotiations. He posed key questions for HR leaders to consider:
- Can we accommodate the prospective employee’s salary?
- Will their new salary disrupt existing pay equity?
- Are we prepared to adjust compensation for others in similar roles?
Cohesive pay structures are critical, as existing employees may perceive rehires as receiving preferential treatment. Lewis stressed the need for transparency regarding salary ranges and timelines for promotions. If an employee’s previous departure was tied to negative experiences with management, it becomes vital for HR to communicate the current workplace climate frankly, offering solutions if necessary.
In summary, while the prospect of bringing back former employees presents opportunities, a thorough approach to understanding their past experiences and addressing workplace changes is essential for successful reintegration.
Source
www.higheredjobs.com