Can You Get Rehired After Getting Terminated?

Getting terminated from a job is an unpleasant experience which makes us feel uncertain about career prospects. However, it does not mean a permanent end with the company, as you may get rehired by the company even after termination. This article explores such a possibility and provides insights on how to cope with this situation.

Check the Rehire Policy

To start with, it is of paramount importance to check the company’s rehire policy. A rehire policy is a set of guidelines and procedures that a company follows while handling applications seeking to return to the organization. It is, however, important to note that not all companies have specific policies in place, and they may handle rehiring on a case-by-case basis.

Assuming there is a rehire policy, here are some common components that may be stipulated in a rehire policy:

1. Eligibility criteria: details the criteria used to consider rehiring former employees, commonly based on factors such as reasons for departure and past performance records

2. Waiting period: lists a specific waiting period before allowing former employees to reapply

3. Evaluation process: describe the process for evaluating potential rehires

Understand the Reasons for Termination and Assessing the Potential for Rehire

Ultimately, companies aim to identify and hire individuals who can create value and make a positive impact on them. Specifically, one should not expect a high chance of getting rehired if you were terminated due to poor performance, attendance issues, trust violation or illegal activities. However, the cases of voluntary resignation, company lay-offs and expired contract are often considered valid reasons for former employees to rejoin.

Apart from the circumstances of the termination and past performance, factors such as relationship with the employer, industry norms and current available roles in the company may also influence the potential for being rehired. One should carefully assess the potential for rehire.

Getting Rehired If You Were Rightfully Terminated

Suppose you were terminated for justified reasons, the following steps should be taken to get your job back:

1. Understand rehire policies: nothing is more necessary than that before you invest time and effort in the application process.

2. Research and collect recommendations: it is crucial to acknowledge any changes in its structure, policies, or culture since you left in order to assess whether it is still a desirable place that aligns with your goals. Obtaining ideas and recommendations from ex-colleagues is a good idea. Use DocPro's template for recommendation letter: Download Recommendation Letter Template

3. Demonstrate your value/benefits: to persuade the hiring manager, you may either demonstrate your past achievements in this company or from somewhere else after. Also, you may want to explain why it is worthwhile for the company to hire a returning employee. For instance, you can distinguish yourself from other applicants by saying that you require no onboarding training because you are already familiar with the company.

In short, by familiarizing yourself with the rehire policies, you are placed in the best position possible to rejoin the company.

Getting Rehired If You Were Wrongfully Terminated

Things would become very different and challenging if you were wrongfully terminated, since you need to prove the termination was unfairly done. In general, the following may constitute unreasonable and unlawful dismissal:

1. dismissal of a pregnant employee;

2. dismissal while the employee is on paid sick leave;

3. dismissal because an employee has given evidence or information in any proceedings or inquiry in connection with the enforcement of labour legislation, industrial accidents or breach of work safety regulations;

4. dismissal for trade union membership and activities; or

5. dismissal of an injured employee before the parties concerned have entered into an agreement for employee's compensation or before the issue of a certificate of assessment for the injury

If you attempt to get rehired after a wrongful termination, the following steps should be taken:

1. Gather evidence: collect any evidence that supports and proves your claim of wrongful termination. They can be written communications (e.g. emails, performance reviews, etc.) or feedback from former colleagues who are willing to speak up.

2. File a claim: the regulations on wrongful terminations vary in different jurisdictions, so it is necessary to consult the relevant labour office or government agency. Guided by the labour office, you should then file a claim regarding the wrongful termination.

3. Consult a lawyer: a lawyer can effectively guide you the legal process and provide specific recommendations based on your situation

4. Return to the job/ Reapply:  Under the mutual consent of both the employer and employee, the relevant office may order reinstatement or re-engagement of the dismissed employee. You may also consider reapplying for a position with your former company if the claim is your desired outcome.

Practice of Well-Known Organizations

Amazon, the multinational eCommerce giant, has a detailed rehire policy that allows former employees to rejoin the team after 90 days. However, it denotes that if an employee has violated any regulation or quitted without notice, he/she has a lesser prospect of getting a second chance, and it may take a longer time for them to be considered by Amazon.

Another example is Walmart’s “at-will” employment agreement. They can terminate the employment relationship at any time citing you do not meet their expectations or standards. On the flip side, if they want to bring you back in a different capacity, they may directly contact you. As such, working for your former company again is something very usual.

Exploring Alternative Paths

Although being reemployed by your former company is a possibility, it is equally essential to keep an open mind and explore other job opportunities. Making use of the skills and experience gained from your previous role, picking up your career in a new company or industry may also be a sensible approach. Sometimes, a fresh start brings unexpected and exciting prospects.

Final thoughts

All in all, it is of utmost importance to read the company’s rehire policy carefully before you take any action. By maintaining professionalism, reflecting on the circumstances and showcasing your value, you can definitely increase the chances for reemployment.

FAQs

What is an example of an employee rehire policy?

An employee rehire policy is a set of guidelines that a company follows when dealing with applications seeking to return to the organization, which may include eligibility, benefits, procedures, etc. For example, check out DocPro's template for Rehire Policy: Download Rehire Policy Template

Why is an employee rehire policy important?

An employee rehire policy provides clarity on rehiring processes and eligibility, ensuring fair treatment for all former employees. From the perspective of the company, it can also be cost-effective to rehire trusted former employees who are familiar with the company and are able to contribute.

Do all companies have a rehire policy?

No. Some companies may handle rehiring on a case-by-case basis.

How to find out if you can be rehired?

Different companies have different policies, so it is always advisable to visit the company’s employee rehire policy. Apart from the policy itself, try to consider from the viewpoint of the company whether it is in the company’s interest to rehire you.