Re-employment: Overview, definition, and example
What is re-employment?
Re-employment refers to the process of hiring a person back into a job or position after they have previously left the company. This could happen for several reasons, such as the employee being rehired after being laid off, returning after a break or leave of absence, or rejoining after quitting their job. Re-employment is typically based on the agreement between the employer and the employee, and it may depend on factors like business needs, job availability, and mutual interest in continuing the working relationship.
For example, if a valued employee returns to the company after taking time off for personal reasons, this would be considered re-employment.
Why is re-employment important?
Re-employment is important because it allows businesses to bring back experienced and skilled employees, saving time and resources that would otherwise be spent on recruiting and training new staff. It can also help maintain continuity in the workplace, ensuring that there is no loss of knowledge or expertise. Re-employment can also serve as a positive practice for businesses looking to retain talent, show flexibility, and support employees’ career paths.
For SMBs, re-employment can be a cost-effective way to rebuild a workforce, particularly after layoffs, seasonal work, or long-term absences, ensuring the company continues to operate efficiently and with experienced employees.
Understanding re-employment through an example
Imagine you own a small business and have to temporarily lay off a few employees due to a downturn in business. After a few months, the market picks up again, and you need to bring back some of the laid-off workers to help with the increased demand. One of your former employees, who left on good terms, is offered a re-employment opportunity to return to their previous role. This employee already knows the company's processes and culture, so the transition is smoother and quicker than hiring a new person.
In another example, an employee who took a career break to raise children might decide to return to work after a few years. You, as an employer, might offer them re-employment, recognizing their previous contributions to the company and allowing them to pick up where they left off.
An example of re-employment in action
Here’s how re-employment might be referenced in a business policy or employment agreement:
“Employees who have been previously employed by the company may be considered for re-employment, subject to availability of positions and the company’s current needs. Re-employed individuals may be offered the same or a similar position, and will retain previous seniority or benefits based on the terms of the re-employment agreement.”
Conclusion
Re-employment allows businesses to bring back experienced employees, which can save time and resources, reduce training costs, and ensure the continuity of knowledge and expertise. For SMBs, re-employment is a valuable option for rebuilding teams after layoffs or other workforce changes, and it can contribute to a positive company culture by showing flexibility and support for employees’ career choices.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.