Should You Go Back to Your Old Job?

October 18, 2022

There are some career decisions that are more difficult to make than others. Choosing between starting fresh with a new company or returning to your old job can be a daunting task. 

On one hand, you may feel like you’ve outgrown your old position and are ready for a new challenge. Or, on the other hand, you may be comfortable with the idea of going back to a place that’s familiar.

So, how do you know which option is right for you? In this guide, we’ll look at the pros and cons of sticking with your old job versus expanding your horizons. We’ll also outline some questions everyone should ask themselves before making this important choice.

The pros of going back to your old job

One of the main advantages of returning to an old job is that you already know the ins and outs of the company. You know the company culture, the people you’ll be working with, and what’s expected of you. This can make for a much smoother transition than starting at a new organisation.

Additionally, going back to your old job may mean you’re in for a pay rise. If you left on good terms and have since gained valuable experience, your old employer may be willing to offer you a competitive salary to come back.

The cons of going back to your old job

However, there are also some drawbacks to returning to an old job. For one, you may find that the company has changed since you’ve been gone. Perhaps they’ve adopted new policies or procedures that you’re not familiar with. Additionally, the people you used to work with may have moved on, which can make it difficult to reintegrate yourself into the organisation.

Another downside of returning to your old job is that it can stunt your professional growth. If you go back to the same position you had before, you may not have many opportunities to develop your skills or advance your career.

Pros of starting somewhere new

Starting anew can also have its benefits. One of the biggest advantages of taking a new job is that it gives you a clean slate. This is especially beneficial if you left your old job on bad terms. A new job gives you a chance to start over and leave any drama in the past.

Additionally, starting at a new company allows you to build up your network from scratch. This can be helpful if you’re looking to make a career change or move up the corporate ladder. You’ll have the opportunity to meet new people and create relationships that can benefit you in the future.

Another plus of taking a new job is that it can help you learn new skills. If you’re feeling like your career has stalled, starting fresh with a new company could revive your enthusiasm for your work.

Cons of starting somewhere new

Of course, starting over also has its challenges. One of the biggest disadvantages of taking a new job is that it can be overwhelming. You’ll have to learn the ropes of a new organisation, which can take time and energy away from your work. Additionally, you may not have much support during this transition period, which can make things even more difficult.

Another potential downside of starting anew is that it could mean taking a pay cut. If you’re switching industries or moving to a new city, you may have to accept a lower salary than what you’re used to. This is something to keep in mind if you’re considering taking a new job.

Questions to ask before returning to your old job

Making the decision to return to your old job can be tough. However, there are some key factors you should consider before making a decision. Before you decide to return to your old workplace, ask yourself the following questions:

• Why did you originally leave? And are the reasons that you left still an issue?
• Are you comfortable with the idea of going back to a place that’s familiar?
• Do you still know the ins and outs of the company?
• Are you familiar with the company culture, the people you’ll be working with, and what’s expected of you?
• Will you be able to advance your career if you return to your old job?
• Do you want a clean slate?
• Are you prepared to take a pay cut? Or are you prepared to negotiate your salary.

Weighing the pros and cons of each option can help you make the best decision for your career. No matter what you decide, be sure to do what’s best for you and your future.

Questions to ask before accepting a new job offer

If you’re considering taking a new job, there are some key questions you should ask before accepting an offer. These include:

• Can you see yourself in this role long-term?
• Is the company reputable and stable?
• Will the salary be enough to cover your costs of living?
• Do the company’s values align with your own?
• Is the work environment conducive to your productivity and happiness?
• Will you have opportunities to advance your career?
• Can you handle the overwhelm of starting anew?
• Is the commute practical, or do they offer remote working?
• Do you know anyone working for the company that can vouch for the company culture?

Asking yourself these questions can help you determine if a new job is right for you.

Closing thoughts

Making the decision to return to your old job or start anew can be tough. There are pros and cons to each option, and it’s important to weigh them carefully before making a decision. Ultimately, no one can predict the future, and there are no guarantees that either option will turn our perfect, but taking a considered approach to choosing is the best way to guarantee you are in the best position possible. 

Consider the factors that are most important to you in a job, and make sure you ask yourself (and the potential employer) key questions before accepting an offer. Ultimately, the best decision is the one that’s best for you and your future.