Rehire: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The prefix 're-' comes from Latin, meaning 'again', indicating a return.
• The word 'hire' has Old English roots, related to the concept of paying someone for their work.
• Combining 're-' and 'hire' create a straightforward understanding: to hire someone again.

Business Practices

• Companies may choose to rehire former employees for their familiarity with the organization and its culture.
• There are potential legal and ethical considerations when rehiring, especially regarding past performance and company policies.
• Some businesses have an unofficial 'boomerang' policy allowing employees to return after a fixed period, reducing training costs.

Psychology

• Rehiring can have positive effects on employee morale, as it shows a sense of value and belonging within the company.
• There can also be challenges, such as staff being unsure about the reasons for the initial departure and the past performance of the rehire.
• Human resource studies show that rehiring can sometimes lead to better performance due to renewed motivation and the elimination of past grievances.

Cultural Aspects

• In some cultures, rehiring is viewed positively, signaling forgiveness and reconciliation, while others might see it as a lack of loyalty.
• The practice of rehiring varies by industry; tech companies often rehire former employees due to their specific skill sets being in high demand.
• Job openings for former employees can reflect the social dynamics within a workplace, signaling relationships and networks beyond typical hiring practices.

Employment Trends

• Recent labor market trends have seen a rise in the number of companies looking to rehire previous employees due to talent shortages.
• The gig economy and flexible working arrangements have led many talented workers to move between companies and return to previous employers.
• A survey indicated that one in five workers would consider returning to a former employer if the opportunity arose.