Most of us are being stretched to the max at work. It seems like more things get added to our plates without anything being taken away. That’s why managing up is so important for efficiency, effectiveness and to achieve desired outcomes. Managing up is trying to make it as easy as possible for any supervisor to manage you.
Ask SheTaxi
I recently left a job for a promotion with a competitor. I love the increase in salary, but that is all. I really miss the old company. My past position has not been filled. Can I contact my old boss and let her know I want to come back? –Tami, Rochester
Grrr, it’s a bummer when this happens. This is a great example of why it is important to leave jobs on good terms. Here are my thoughts:
- If you have a good relationship with your past manager, check in with them and share why the new position is not a good fit. Be prepared and clear about why you want to return your old job. Identify what is important to you and ask if those interests can be met.
- More than likely your old manager will be thinking, “If she comes back, will she still be looking for another job?” There is risk on their side. Acknowledge that and be honest about your expectations.
- If your past employer is amiable to your return, ask for a bump in salary. If you were a valued employee, it is going to cost them a lot less money to have you back with an increase in pay than onboarding a new employee.
- Thank them for the consideration of your return. Go into the discussion prepared with all of the benefits of why they should hire you back and share with them what you have learned since leaving. Communicate why returning is the best option for you AND them. Good luck!
Peggy answers another reader question about confidence when interviewing at rwmagazine.com.
