Is the ‘Great Resignation’ Turning into the ‘Great Regret’ as Boomerang Employees Seek to Reclaim Their Pre-Covid Positions?

The pandemic has brought upon a phenomenon that has been labeled the “Great Resignation,” where countless workers have resigned from their jobs to pursue new opportunities, shift careers, or prioritize their health and well-being. However, as the world slowly returns to pre-Covid normalcy, many of these former employees are experiencing regret and longing for their old jobs. In fact, some are even seeking to return to their former employers in what is known as the “Great Regret.” These “boomerang workers” pose an interesting situation for companies as they navigate the current job market and try to retain and attract talent.


A recent poll by recruiter Robert Walters has revealed that the ‘Great Resignation’ phenomenon experienced during the pandemic may be turning into the ‘Great Regret’, with more than two thirds of Irish employees willing to return to their pre-pandemic jobs. The survey of 2,000 professionals found that 69% of them were open to returning to their former workplace, with 45% of this group citing dissatisfaction with their current employer. A third of those considering returning stated that they were unhappy due to the cost-of-living crisis, whilst a quarter blamed hybrid-working fatigue. Of those who left their role during Covid, 43% did so for better pay, and 37% due to a desire for a better workplace culture, or for greater purpose in their roles. Despite this willingness to return, the survey also found that 46% of managers are reluctant to rehire a former employee, with only a fifth saying they would consider it if the candidate had been an ‘exceptional’ employee.


As the world begins to recover from the pandemic, it seems that many workers are experiencing a case of the ‘Great Regret’. The rush to resign during the ‘Great Resignation’ may not have been the best decision for some. The desire for job security, stability, and a paycheck has brought many people back to their pre-Covid jobs as boomerang workers. It is clear that the pandemic has changed the way we view our jobs, and many of us now have a renewed appreciation for our work and the people we work with. While the ‘Great Resignation’ may have been a wake-up call for some, it may lead to a greater appreciation for the jobs we have and a renewed commitment to our work. As we move forward, it will be interesting to see how the ‘Great Resignation’ and subsequent ‘Great Regret’ shape the future of work.