In the professional world, there are instances where an individual may seek to return to a previous job. Whether due to a change in personal circumstances, a realization of the value of the former position, or changes in the job market, writing a letter to request your job back is a delicate task. It requires a blend of professionalism, humility, and clarity.
This article provides twenty sample letters, each crafted for different scenarios and reasons for wanting to return to a previous job.
Sample Letters to Request Your Job Back
These samples serve as a guide to help individuals approach their former employers with a well-structured and thoughtful request to be reconsidered for employment.
Sample 1: After Voluntary Resignation
Dear [Former Boss/Manager’s Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my interest in returning to my former position as [Your Previous Position] at [Company Name]. Since my resignation on [Resignation Date], I have come to realize the value and fulfillment I found in my role and the unique opportunities that [Company Name] offers.
I am eager to bring back my skills and experience to the team and contribute positively as I did before. I understand that my leaving may have caused inconvenience, and for that, I sincerely apologize.
I am hopeful for an opportunity to discuss the possibility of rejoining the team.
Thank you for considering my request.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 2: After Layoff Due to Company Restructuring
To [Former Boss/HR Department],
I was disheartened when I had to leave [Company Name] due to the layoffs resulting from the company restructuring. I am writing to inquire if there might be an opportunity for me to return to my role, or a similar position, now that the restructuring phase has concluded.
During my time with [Company Name], I was dedicated to [mention specific achievements or contributions], and I believe I can continue to be a valuable asset to the team.
I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss any available positions that may be a good fit.
Thank you for considering my request.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Sample 3: Following a Career Break
Dear [Former Employer’s Name],
After a career break, which I took for [personal reasons/further education/family], I am now eager to re-enter the professional world. I fondly remember my time at [Company Name] and the growth and learning opportunities it presented.
I would be grateful for the chance to discuss the possibility of returning to a role that matches my skills and experience. I am confident that I can seamlessly reintegrate and contribute effectively to the team.
Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 4: After Short-Term Employment Elsewhere
To [Former Boss/Manager’s Name],
Having left [Company Name] for a role that I believed would offer new challenges, I have found that it lacks the [specific aspect you miss about the former job, like team collaboration, company culture, nature of work]. I now realize the value of what I had at [Company Name] and am writing to inquire if there might be an opportunity to come back.
I am ready to bring back my enhanced skills and renewed enthusiasm to the team.
Your consideration of my request would be greatly appreciated.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Sample 5: Return After Seasonal Layoff
Dear [Former Employer’s Name],
As the season approaches, I am writing to express my interest in returning to [Company Name] in my previous role as [Your Position]. My previous experience with the seasonal demands of the job makes me confident in my ability to contribute effectively once again.
I am looking forward to potentially rejoining the team and delivering the same high-quality work as before.
Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 6: Requesting Job Back After Personal Health Issues
To [Former Boss/HR Department],
I had to leave my position as [Your Position] at [Company Name] due to health issues that required my full attention. Now that I have recovered, I am eager to return to work and ideally to my former role.
I believe my previous contributions and familiarity with the company’s operations make me a suitable candidate to rejoin the team.
I am hopeful for a positive response.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Sample 7: After an Unsuccessful Job Change
Dear [Former Employer’s Name],
Recently, I left [Company Name] to pursue another opportunity which, unfortunately, did not meet my professional expectations. I have come to appreciate the quality of work and the working environment at [Company Name] more deeply.
I would like to inquire about the possibility of returning to my former role or a similar position where I can contribute meaningfully as I did before.
Your consideration of my request is sincerely appreciated.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 8: Seeking Reemployment After Relocation
To [Former Boss/Manager’s Name],
Having relocated back to [Location], I am writing to express my interest in rejoining [Company Name]. My time away has only strengthened my appreciation for the company’s culture and the work I did in my role as [Your Position].
I am keen to bring my enhanced skills and renewed energy back to the team.
I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my return.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Sample 9: Return Request After Sabbatical
Dear [Former Employer’s Name],
Following my sabbatical, during which I pursued [reason for sabbatical], I am now seeking to re-enter the workforce. My experience at [Company Name] was incredibly positive, and I believe that returning to my former role, or a similar position, would be mutually beneficial.
I am eager to contribute to the company with fresh perspectives and renewed vigor.
Thank you for considering my request.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Sample 10: Request After Company’s Financial Recovery
To [Former Boss/HR Department],
When I was part of [Company Name], the company’s financial difficulties led to my layoff. I understand that the company’s situation has since improved, and I am interested in returning to contribute to its continued success.
I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss available positions that suit my expertise.
Your positive consideration of my application would be greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 11: After Improving Professional Skills
Dear [Former Employer’s Name],
Since leaving [Company Name], I have dedicated time to enhancing my professional skills, particularly in [specific skills or areas]. I believe these new skills would greatly benefit the team and the company.
I am writing to explore the possibility of rejoining [Company Name] and applying these improved skills in a meaningful way.
Thank you for considering my request.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Sample 12: Request to Return After Maternity Leave
To [Former Boss/Manager’s Name],
Following my maternity leave, I had to make the difficult decision to leave [Company Name] to focus on my family. As I am now ready to resume my career, I am particularly interested in returning to my former role or a similar position at [Company Name].
I am eager to bring my experience and dedication back to the team.
I look forward to the possibility of rejoining the company.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Sample 13: Seeking Old Job After Business Venture
Dear [Former Employer’s Name],
After leaving [Company Name] to pursue a business venture, I have gained valuable experience and insights. However, I am now looking to return to a more structured work environment and am particularly interested in rejoining [Company Name].
I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my new skills and experiences can benefit the company.
Thank you for considering my return.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 14: After Completion of Further Education
To [Former Boss/HR Department],
Having recently completed my [degree or certification], I am now seeking to apply this advanced knowledge in a professional setting. My previous role at [Company Name] provided a strong foundation, and I am keen to return and contribute at a higher capacity.
I am hopeful for an opportunity to discuss my return to the team.
Your consideration is greatly valued.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Sample 15: Request to Rejoin After Retirement
Dear [Former Employer’s Name],
Since my retirement, I have found that I miss the challenges and fulfillment of my work at [Company Name]. If there are any suitable openings, I would be enthusiastic about the opportunity to return to the workforce, even in a part-time or consultancy role.
I look forward to potentially contributing my experience and knowledge once again.
Thank you for considering my request.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]