Where are all the Jobs?: Can You Hire Me Again? Writing Resumes for Previous Employers

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Can You Hire Me Again? Writing Resumes for Previous Employers | Career Rocketeer

Can You Hire Me Again? Writing Resumes for Previous Employers

Posted: 10 May 2011 03:15 AM PDT

Most workers never imagine in a million years that they could consider returning to an employer they’d walked away from years ago, even if they left on good terms. But as workers struggle to find work in tough economic times, things that once seemed impossible become possible again.
If you are thinking about returning to a previous employer, you shouldn’t feel discouraged. In fact, taking this step could put you in a great position. The key is creating the right opportunity for yourself through your resume and realizing that you have a few things in your corner …
The Company Already Knows You
Unless you left your previous employer 20 years ago and it has been revamped with all new workers, you still are likely to know people there—and they are likely to know you. Use this to your benefit by bringing up your previous employment and going into detail about what you accomplished.
Mention awards you won and remind them, by quantifying your results over the years, of the difference you made. In other words, make your time there really shine.
You Know the Company’s Culture
One major aspect of choosing a candidate is deciding if that person can fit into the company’s culture. Are they too uptight or not serious enough? Will they understand what the company’s mission really means? Can they dive right in and go with a flow that’s been present for years?
As a prior candidate, you not only know the culture, you have been a part of it in the past. Even if it has changed some, you should have an easier time fitting right in because you’ve already been a part of the company’s mission.
Take time in your resume to mention that one of your goals is to further the company’s mission; then note recent challenges that you would like to help it overcome or recent triumphs that you want to help it replicate. Sharing these bits of inside information could help you soar past other candidates.
People in the Company Can Vouch for You
If you still know anyone from the company, you could list them on your resume along with their testimonial. Also, have them recommend you on your LinkedIn page since bringing to the hiring manager’s attention who you know can inspire him or her to seek out those who can vouch for you.
Returning to a previous employer can be an exciting prospect, especially if you’re really interested in doing so. While some think this move could mean taking a step backward, if you plan to excel on this familiar ground, you could actually open a door that moves you forward in ways you’ve never imagined.

Author:
Jessica Holbrook Hernandez is an expert resume writer, career and personal branding strategist, author, speaker and President/CEO of Great Resumes Fast. She creates high-impact, best-in-class resumes and cover letters that transform job searches into interviews and ultimately job offers. For more information about professional resume writing or to read more career and job search related articles visit http://www.greatresumesfast.com or call 1.800.991.5187.