Hiring qualified candidates is challenging in our profession, especially if you\u2019re looking for veterinarians and veterinary technicians. Both are in short supply, putting a tremendous strain on already-strapped practices. That\u2019s why I recommend hiring a \u201cboomerang\u201d employee \u2014 someone who leaves an organization voluntarily and later returns. According to LinkedIn, boomerang employees accounted for 4.3% of all new U.S. hires in 2021.<\/p>\n
For the sake of this article, I will assume that employees who leave your clinic do so on good terms and would be open to rejoining your ranks. You should consider bringing them back for practical and financial reasons.<\/p>\n
Boomerang employees might have departed to pursue other opportunities, gain new experiences or address personal issues. However, when they return, they can hit the ground running. Here\u2019s what they deliver the second time around.<\/p>\n
1. Awareness of the Practice\u2019s Culture and Processes<\/strong><\/p>\n Boomerang employees understand your hospital\u2019s mission, vision and internal dynamics. The familiarity translates into a shorter learning curve as newly returned employees quickly adapt to their roles.<\/p>\n 2. Institutional Knowledge and Experience<\/strong><\/p>\n Boomerang employees understand your clinic\u2019s history, projects, clients and vendors, as well as industry-specific nuances. That knowledge can be invaluable in maintaining continuity, especially during transition periods or when specific expertise is required.<\/p>\n 3. Existing Relationships and Networks<\/strong><\/p>\n Boomerang employees established professional connections within the practice earlier. Those relationships with colleagues, superiors and subordinates allow returnees to reintegrate into the team seamlessly.<\/p>\n 4. Enhanced Loyalty and Commitment<\/strong><\/p>\n Having experienced other workplaces and career opportunities, boomerang employees consciously choose to return to a familiar clinic. Loyalty often translates into increased engagement, productivity and longevity.<\/p>\n 5. Greater Employee Morale<\/strong><\/p>\n A boomerang employee\u2019s return can elevate the morale of the existing workforce. Team members see that the organization values its former employees and fosters a supportive environment. Seeing a former colleague again can instill a sense of pride and loyalty among employees, reinforcing the belief that the practice provides growth opportunities and is a desirable place to work.<\/p>\n Hiring boomerang employees makes sound financial sense for these four reasons.<\/p>\nFinancial Considerations<\/strong><\/h3>\n