AUSTRALIA | The vast majority of Australian professionals have expressed a willingness to return to pre-covid employers.
In a survey conducted by leading recruitment agency Robert Walters, a significant 85 percent of professionals revealed that they have regretted leaving roles abruptly and would be interested in returning to previous employers.
The interest in old positions was due to differences in work-life balance, changes in market conditions, promotions, financial incentives, and workplace culture.
"Following the post-pandemic rebound, there has been a notable surge in employee departures, commonly referred to as 'The Great Resignation'," said Shay Peters, CEO of Robert Walters ANZ.
"However, our research reveals an emerging trend known as 'The Great Regret'. Throughout 2021, professionals were enticed with unprecedented salary hikes and the promise of a highly adaptable and hybrid work culture."
Further research has revealed that 45 percent of surveyees said work-life balance is the most important reason for considering a job. Before the pandemic, hybrid working was a luxury offered to few. In 2024, 82 percent of white-collar companies offer flexible working arrangements.
"Fast forward to 2024, and these salary increases now pale compared to the escalating living costs and inflation," continued Peters.
"Interestingly, those who joined organisations with inflated salaries are far less likely to have received a pay raise this year. It appears that workers are awakening to the realisation that the grass may not have been greener on the other side, after all."
Of the 2,000 surveyed, 82 percent disclosed that they maintained some communication with former managers. In addition, 98 percent of hiring managers said they would re-hire employees who left.
"It should excite leaders that a talent pool is open to re-joining their businesses. These individuals are familiar with your company's processes and have already demonstrated a vested interest in your brand," said Peters.
Moving forward, Robert Walters suggested that companies engage with alumni networks, with 'boomerang employees' predicted to rise.
Read more Australian news here.
