How to apply for a job again after leaving: 3 secrets to convincing recruiters.

This article provides guidance on how to reapply for a job after leaving, covering three scenarios: being fired, voluntarily resigning, and being laid off. The content focuses on evaluating the reasons for leaving, preparing a professional resume, maintaining a proactive attitude, contacting the former company, and building a positive image. Readers are advised to demonstrate maturity, proactively improve themselves, and maintain relationships to increase their chances of being rehired.

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Melody Godfred, JD Nội dung được xác thực bởi chuyên gia
Cách xin làm việc lại sau khi nghỉ: 3 bí quyết thuyết phục nhà tuyển dụng-Tiptory

Many people realize after leaving their old jobs that their previous work was a better fit than they thought — a good environment, friendly colleagues, or simply plenty of unfinished opportunities for growth. Applying to return to an old company is not uncommon, especially in today's volatile job market.

Perhaps you quit your job in anger, exhaustion, or due to downsizing . Whatever the reason, if you truly want to return, writing a professional, tactful, and sincere re-application is the first step to making a good impression and reopening the door to opportunity.

In this article, we will explore:

  • When should (and shouldn't) you ask to return to your old company?

  • How to write a proper and focused job application .

  • A sample letter requesting to return to work can increase your chances of being rehired.

Secret 1: How to reapply for a job after being fired: 7 steps to take immediately.

Step 1: Assess the reasons for leaving and the likelihood of being rehired.

Before writing a letter requesting to return to your job after being dismissed, you need to clearly understand the reasons why you were terminated . A truthful reflection will help you determine whether you should apply to return, and if so, how to present your case convincingly.

1. Identify the true cause.
Ask yourself:

  • Was I fired due to personal error, a violation of regulations, or just a misunderstanding?

  • Could that reason have been avoided if the situation had been handled differently?

  • Or did the resignation stem from momentary emotions, internal conflicts, or unfair evaluations?

If the cause stems from professional error or attitude, you should honestly take responsibility and clearly demonstrate your commitment to change in your resignation letter.

2. Consider factors of fairness and the working environment.
If you suspect that your job loss was influenced by bias, injustice, or discrimination (such as related to age, gender, religion, or personal orientation), investigate thoroughly.

  • Was anyone else in a similar situation also fired?

  • Are there any signs that you are being treated differently from your colleagues?

When you have evidence of unfairness, you can discuss it with the human resources department or rewrite your job application with clear reasons, focusing on the value you bring instead of arguing about the past.

3. Prepare yourself professionally.
Before contacting the company again, please make sure you have:

  • Maintain a positive and respectful attitude towards former bosses or colleagues.

  • Have a clear plan about where you want to return.

  • Show a desire to contribute, not just "reapply for the job."

By objectively assessing the reasons for leaving your previous job, you not only increase your chances of being rehired , but also build a professional and trustworthy image in the eyes of potential employers.

Step 2: Seek legal advice when necessary.

In some cases, your termination may not be entirely justified or legal . In such situations, seeking legal counsel or a labor rights advisor is a worthwhile step, especially if you wish to be considered for reinstatement.

1. When should you seek legal advice?
Contact a legal professional if:

  • You were fired for unclear or personal reasons , unrelated to your job performance.

  • There are signs of discrimination (based on gender, age, religion, personal orientation, etc.).

  • You are employed under an employment contract or are a union member , as these situations often have specific regulations regarding protected rights and contract termination procedures .

2. Benefits of legal consultation
A lawyer can help you:

  • Assess the legality of the dismissal decision.

  • Gather and present evidence if you have been unfairly dismissed from your job.

  • Negotiate with the company about the possibility of reinstatement or appropriate compensation.

3. Act early to protect your rights.
If you are under contract or union, contact them immediately when this happens . Delaying contact may cost you the right to appeal or negotiate re-employment .

Seeking legal advice not only helps you understand your rights but also protects your reputation and long-term career opportunities .

Step 3: Update and revise your job application (CV or resume).

Before applying for a job after leaving your previous position, review and update your personal profile . A well-prepared CV not only demonstrates professionalism but also highlights the value you brought to the company .

1. Add the latest experience
Update your resume with any positions, projects, or skills you acquired after leaving your previous company. This shows that you are continuously learning and developing yourself , even after leaving your old environment.

2. Emphasize your contributions while working at your previous company.
Highlight specific achievements such as:

  • Projects you have successfully led or participated in.

  • The results, metrics, or contributions you deliver (e.g., increased sales, improved processes, building team culture...).

  • Positive feedback from your boss or colleagues.

This helps to reinforce your positive image in the eyes of the employer, while also demonstrating that you were once a valuable and trustworthy employee .

3. Professional and refined wording.
Avoid lengthy descriptions or excessive flattery. Instead, use clear, positive, and truthful language , focusing on your abilities and actual results. A concise, professional CV will help employers remember why they initially chose you .

Updating your resume is a crucial step in making a positive impression on your previous company , demonstrating your maturity, proactiveness, and willingness to contribute more than before.

Step 4: Contact your old company to explore the possibility of being rehired.

After carefully preparing your application and clearly defining your goals, the next step is to proactively contact your former company to find out if there is still a chance of you being rehired. This step requires tact, especially if your previous resignation wasn't smooth.

1. Find out in advance about your chances of being rehired.
First, contact the human resources department or your former manager to inquire about the company's rehire policy .

  • If you are eligible to return , they may provide a list of specific conditions or requirements (such as additional certifications, skill development, or a second trial period). Please comply fully to demonstrate your good faith.

  • If the company says they can't rehire you immediately , you can offer a temporary lower-level position or lower salary , provided there's an opportunity to prove your abilities and regain your original position over time.

2. Skillfully reconnect through old relationships.
Sometimes, getting back together doesn't necessarily have to start with a formal email. You could:

  • Meet up with former colleagues to check in on the company situation and new job opportunities.

  • If you maintained a good relationship with your former boss , a casual coffee or lunch meeting would be a good opportunity to share your desire to return to work and catch up on current events.

Through these conversations, you can gain insight into the internal "climate" —whether the company is hiring and whether it's open to rehiring former employees.

3. Maintain a positive and professional attitude.
Regardless of the outcome, always maintain a positive attitude and don't dwell on the past . Even if the company rejects you, your appropriate behavior will help leave a good impression and pave the way for other opportunities in the future.

Step 5: Thoroughly address the reasons why you were fired.

Before considering returning to your old company, you need to definitively resolve any personal or professional issues that led to your dismissal. This is a crucial step in demonstrating that you have matured and are ready to start over in a more professional manner .

1. Honestly acknowledge the root cause.
Ask yourself:

  • Have you ever been dismissed because of your attitude, behavior, or work performance ?

  • Are there any personal issues affecting your work (such as conflicts, stress, mental health, etc.)?

Recognizing the real cause isn't about self-blame, but about understanding what needs to change before returning to the past.

2. Proactively address and improve yourself.
If the cause is due to behavior or attitude, you can:

  • Participate in soft skills training courses , especially in communication, emotional management, or teamwork.

  • Seek support from a mental health professional or career counselor if you are having difficulty managing your emotions, experiencing stress, or feeling demotivated.

  • Rebuild positive work habits , be more punctual, responsible, and proactive.

It's crucial that you demonstrate this change through actions , not just words.

3. Use your time out of unemployment to improve yourself.
A break from work is a valuable opportunity to learn new skills, improve your mental health, and adjust your career path . When you demonstrate that you have resolved past issues and are ready to contribute, employers will see a better version of you than before .

Step 6: Prepare answers to questions about taking time off and returning to work.

When you apply to return to your old company, the recruiter will certainly ask about your reasons for leaving and your desire to return . Thorough preparation will help you answer confidently, sincerely, and create a professional impression.

1. Predict frequently asked questions.
Please prepare the answers to the following questions:

  • "Why should we take you back?"

  • "Why would you like to come back to work here?"

  • "If the only option was a lower position than before, would you be willing to accept it?"

When responding, maintain a humble, positive, and receptive attitude . The goal is not to justify the past, but to show that you have learned, changed, and grown .

2. Focus on your experience and the value you've brought.
Emphasize that you have a thorough understanding of the company's culture, processes, and people , so you can quickly integrate and contribute effectively.

  • List the achievements, skills, or projects you have successfully completed.

  • If there was a period of low performance in the past, briefly acknowledge it and then shift your focus to the positive results you've achieved.

This helps confirm that you are still a valuable asset and deserve another chance.

3. Provide a tactful explanation if the reason for your absence is due to personal circumstances.
If your previous departure was due to personal circumstances (e.g., health, family, mental health issues), you can briefly state that the situation has been resolved . This helps the employer understand that you are ready to return to the company.

4. Avoid being defensive, focus on the future.
Don't try to argue or blame past circumstances. Instead, steer the conversation toward how you can help the company grow . For example:

"The past period has helped me to better recognize areas where I need improvement. Now I believe I can contribute more effectively, especially in the areas where the company is developing."

By demonstrating a proactive and forward-looking attitude, you will rebuild trust and increase your chances of being rewarded .

Step 7: Submit the official job application.

Even if the company hasn't announced a new job opening, you should still proactively resubmit your application . This demonstrates your professionalism and seriousness about wanting to return to work.

1. Please resubmit your complete and most up-to-date documents.
Please submit your application for re-employment along with your revised CV or resume . In your application, you can briefly state that you are eager to return to the company to continue contributing and are ready for a new challenge .
This helps the HR department have your official profile in the system, making it easier for them to review it when a suitable position becomes available.

2. Maintain professionalism even without a job posting.
Applying even when the company hasn't opened for recruitment is not "useless." It shows that you are proactive, have good intentions, and want to commit long-term . In many cases, the company may prioritize considering existing employees before looking for new ones.

3. Adhere strictly to the recruitment process.
Even if you know your former boss or have a referral, you should still follow the formal application process . Without a valid application, the company might reject your application simply for procedural reasons .

4. Make a positive first impression.
A well-organized, concise resume that demonstrates a proactive attitude will help you impress recruiters , especially when they need reliable personnel who understand the work environment.

Tip 2: Quitting your job and then wanting to return: What to do to get rehired?

Step 1: Address your personal issues before applying to return to work.

If you were the one who proactively left your job, there was certainly a reason for your departure — perhaps a disagreement with your boss, work pressure, or feeling like you were no longer a good fit. However, if you truly want to return, the first step is to reflect on yourself .

1. Be honest with yourself about your reasons for leaving.
Ask yourself:

  • Does the reason you left your job still exist from that time?

  • If the problem stems from your boss or the work environment, would you be able to accept or adapt to it if you returned?

This helps you determine your true motivation : are you returning because you need the job, because you feel loyal to the company, or because you want to start over with a different mindset?

2. Adjust your attitude and approach.
Even if you've had conflicts in the past, when you want to reconcile, you must proactively set aside your ego and show a willingness to compromise . Demonstrate that you've matured, know how to listen, and are ready to cooperate .
Managers will appreciate employees who acknowledge their mistakes and are willing to change .

3. Demonstrate progress through actions.
If you've ever struggled with skills, performance, or communication, consider enrolling in a training course or personal development program .
When you're finished, proactively share the results with your former company —for example, certificates, thank-you letters from your training institution, or skills you've improved. This demonstrates maturity and a proactive attitude , helping to restore trust with the employer.

4. Be ready to work with a new attitude.
Before reapplying for a job, make sure you 're truly ready to return to your old environment with a positive attitude . When you change, how others perceive you will change too.

Step 2: Apologize to your former boss and company if necessary.

If you ever resigned from a job impulsively or due to conflict, a sincere apology is a crucial step in bridging the gap and restoring trust before asking to return.

1. Take responsibility and demonstrate change.
Unless you're leaving for a legitimate reason (like moving, studying, or a special personal reason), acknowledge that your previous decision to leave may not have been well-thought-out .
A gentle apology, showing that you have reflected and learned your lesson , will demonstrate your maturity and sense of responsibility .

For example, you could say:

“I made a rather hasty decision at the time. Looking back now, I realize that the company was truly the right place for me, and I deeply appreciate the opportunity I had. I apologize for that decision and hope to be able to contribute again.”

2. Choose the most appropriate and sincere way to apologize.

  • Avoid sending text messages or emails just to get it over with. Instead, meet in person if possible, or call to show respect.

  • If they're busy or don't answer, don't let your apology go to voicemail . Text them to reschedule or call at a later time.

A face-to-face conversation allows you to convey your true feelings and show that you genuinely want to make amends, rather than just going through the motions.

3. How to apologize shows character.
When speaking, be concise, clear, and avoid beating around the bush .

"I'm sorry, I was wrong."

Don't try to justify or blame the circumstances. A sincere apology shows that you are responsible, willing to learn, and trustworthy —qualities any manager will appreciate.

4. Lay the foundation for a new relationship with the company.
After apologizing, focus on the future . Show them that you've changed and are ready to contribute long-term if given the opportunity.

Step 3: Update your job application (CV or resume).

After leaving a company, whether you intend to return or not, updating your CV is always a necessary step. This is not only a way to keep a record of your career journey, but also helps create a professional impression if you want to reapply in the future .

1. Get the latest information
Include any work, projects, or skills you've acquired since leaving your previous job. This demonstrates your continuous self-development and readiness to take on new roles if given the opportunity.

2. Adjust the layout and presentation.
Take the time to refine your language, formatting, and phrasing so that your CV looks professional, clear, and easy to read. A well-presented CV shows that you are serious and respectful of the employer , especially if you are looking to return to your previous company.

3. Highlight past values ​​and achievements.
Highlight the positive contributions you've made to the company—this will help rekindle the positive impression they have of you. Simultaneously, showcase new skills and experience , demonstrating your growth and ability to bring even more value than before .

4. Be prepared for re-employment opportunities.
A well-updated and polished CV is a tool that helps you return to your old company with confidence and professionalism , while also demonstrating that you know how to invest in your own career .

Step 4: Send your updated CV to your previous company.

Once you've completed your new CV, don't hesitate to send it back to your old company , even if they haven't posted any job openings yet. This shows your goodwill, proactiveness, and desire for a long-term commitment .

1. Send it to the right person, following the right procedure.
First, submit your application to the human resources or recruitment department so they can officially register your information in their system. This ensures transparency and professionalism , preventing unofficial "job applications through connections."

2. Contact your former boss or managers you've worked with effectively.
Alongside submitting your official application, you can also send your CV and a personal message to your former boss or managers. Express your desire to return and contribute if the company needs your services, and highlight any new experiences and skills you have acquired during your time with the company.

This approach increases your chances of being considered internally , as your direct manager often has a significant say in the decision to rehire former employees.

3. Expand internal connections to increase opportunities.
If you're still in touch with former colleagues or people within the company , you could ask them to forward your resume to the right person . They might also be able to help you find out about any vacant or upcoming positions .

4. Demonstrate professionalism and a positive attitude.
In all interactions, maintain a respectful, sincere, and professional tone. Whether you are accepted or not, displaying the right attitude will help maintain a positive image in the company's eyes , opening up opportunities in the future.

Step 5: Prepare to answer the question "Why did you leave your previous job?"

When applying to re-employ your previous company, this is almost certainly the question you'll be asked . How you answer will determine whether the employer perceives you as trustworthy and mature .

1. Focus on your own change, not on blaming others.
Instead of talking about the negative aspects of your previous company , steer your response towards your own personal growth and reflection .
For example:

"At the time, I felt I wasn't ready for the pressure of the job. But after leaving, I learned to manage my emotions and work better, so now I'm confident I can contribute more effectively."

This way of responding shows you are responsible, calm, and proactive , instead of complaining about your previous company or boss.

2. Acknowledge mistakes tactfully.
If the decision to leave your job stems from emotions or conflict, you can briefly acknowledge it and shift the focus to what you've learned .

"I used to let my emotions influence my decisions, but time has taught me how to work more professionally and calmly."

Honesty and a willingness to learn often create a stronger positive impression than trying to justify oneself.

3. Emphasize current changes and reliability.
Show them that you 've addressed the reasons why you left your previous job — whether it was a skill, mindset, or attitude.
For example, you may have taken additional courses, participated in training programs, or improved your teamwork skills.
This demonstrates that you are ready to become a more reliable employee than before .

4. Directing the story toward the future.
Conclude your answer by expressing your desire for a long-term commitment:

"Now I understand the value of the company and believe that this is still a place where I can develop sustainably."

Step 6: Maintain a humble attitude towards your boss when asking to return to work.

If you truly want to return to your old company, humility and a willingness to learn are crucial. In many cases, your boss will be willing to give you a chance— but with some conditions , such as a lower salary or a temporary position that isn't quite the same as before.

1. Willing to accept reasonable terms.
If your boss offers you a return with a lower salary or a smaller role, accept it with a positive attitude . Show that you respect their decision and see it as an opportunity to prove your abilities again from scratch .
For example:

"I understand and respect your decision. I am ready to take on this position to prove that I have changed and can contribute better than before."

This response shows that you are knowledgeable and demonstrates a genuine commitment to returning and achieving long-term growth .

2. Affirming a desire to return to the previous position in the future.
Even if you accept temporary conditions, you can still express your desire to work towards returning to your previous position once you demonstrate your capabilities. This shows that you have clear goals and a proactive attitude , not just "applying for a job because you need it."

3. Know your limits — don't tolerate being insulted.
Humility does not mean accepting being disrespected or treated badly .
A pay cut or a lower position might be acceptable, but if you're insulted, slandered, or treated disrespectfully , you should reconsider your work environment . No one can thrive in an environment that makes them feel hurt.

When applying to return to your old company, show that you are a mature person, aware of your mistakes and willing to correct them , but still maintaining your self-respect . This is how you can both regain your boss's trust and affirm your own value.

Tip 3: How to get rehired after being laid off?

Step 1: Stay in touch with former colleagues and bosses to seize the opportunity to return.

If you truly want to return to your old company , maintaining relationships with former colleagues and bosses is an essential step. This helps you know in advance when positions become available and maintain a positive image in their eyes .

1. Maintain regular, natural connections.
Reach out to former colleagues or managers naturally—you don't necessarily have to bring up job applications right away. You can chat about work, ask about their well-being, or share industry information .
For example:

"Does the company have many new projects lately? I'm always interested in the company's development direction."

Gentle conversations help you maintain relationships without giving the impression of wanting to "take advantage."

2. Attend meetings and events outside of work.
If you used to have a close relationship, you can maintain a personal connection by attending lunches, birthday parties, or meetups with mutual friends.
This helps them remember you favorably , rather than just as "an ex-employee who left the company."

3. Proactively demonstrate that you are still willing to come back.
After maintaining contact for a while, you can gently mention that you'd be willing to return if the company needs to hire more people .
For example:

"If the company needs to re-hire for a similar position in the future, I would be very grateful for your consideration because I truly still value the working environment there."

4. Build a professional and positive image.
Even if you no longer work at the company, maintain a respectful attitude and avoid speaking ill of your former boss or colleagues . Every conversation is an opportunity to demonstrate your maturity, professionalism, and trustworthiness —qualities that will make them willing to reopen the door for you.

Step 2: Update and refine your CV.

Before applying to return to your old company, you need to update and refine your CV (or professional resume) to clearly showcase your personal development. This will help recruiters see your progress and the value you can bring again .

1. Get the latest information
Place your most recent job at the top of your work experience section. Whether you were freelance, learning new skills, or working on a personal project, it's important to clearly state it to demonstrate your continued activity and growth during your time off from work.

2. Highlight your contributions at your previous company.
Since you're asking to return to that same place, focus on specifically describing the achievements, projects, or value you contributed . This will help remind your boss that you were once a skilled and reliable employee .
For example:

"Participating in the marketing campaign resulted in a 20% increase in new customers in Q2 2023."

3. Demonstrate the skills and lessons learned.
Highlight any new skills or lessons you learned during your time away from the company . This shows that you are willing to learn, grow, and are ready to contribute more effectively upon your return .
For example:

"During my break, I participated in project management skills training and improved my internal communication skills."

4. Emphasize professional presentation.
Take the time to check for spelling errors, wording, layout, and formatting . A well-presented CV demonstrates seriousness, professionalism, and respect for the employer .

Step 3: Find a reputable referrer at your previous company.

When considering returning to a company, feedback from former colleagues can carry more weight than any self-introduction . Positive testimonials help your boss believe you are still respected and trusted by the team.

1. Contact colleagues or managers who have previously given you high praise.
If you've had a good experience and a positive relationship with a former colleague or boss, proactively text or call them to ask if they could be a referral .
For example:

"Excuse me, I'm thinking of returning to the company if I have the opportunity. Could you please allow me to include your name in the references section of my application?"

In most cases, if they have a positive impression of you, they will be willing to help .

2. Prioritize candidates with high positions or internal influence.
A recommendation from a team leader, manager, or direct supervisor is often more valuable than from a peer. Employers always appreciate feedback from someone in a position of authority , especially someone who has supervised you.

However, only choose people who genuinely support you . A colleague who likes you is still better than a manager who has a negative opinion of you — because negative recommendations can negatively impact your chances.

3. Maintain the relationship after asking for permission.
After they agree, don't stop there. Stay in touch, share updates about your application process , and send a sincere thank you. A grateful and professional attitude will help you maintain a long-term relationship and gain more support in the future.

4. Don't hesitate to ask for help when the company starts rehiring.
If you hear that a company is hiring or has a suitable position, ask your referral to proactively put in a good word for you . A simple reminder from an insider can sometimes make a big difference among dozens of other applicants.

Step 4: Resend your updated CV to your previous company.

After completing your application, don't wait for the company to announce new job openings; proactively send your CV back . Even if they don't have immediate vacancies, sending your application still shows your goodwill, seriousness, and desire to work with them again .

1. Proactively submit your application, even if the company hasn't started hiring yet.
A small gesture like resending your CV and a letter expressing your desire to return can score big points with recruiters . They'll know you still value the company and are willing to come back whenever the opportunity arises .

Example of email content:

"I am very much looking forward to the opportunity to return and contribute to the company. I am attaching my most recent CV for your consideration when a suitable position becomes available."

2. Send it to the right person and through the right channel.
Send your resume to HR , your direct supervisor , and, if possible, a few other managers you've worked with . Sending it to multiple people ensures your resume is on record in various departments , increasing your chances of being considered when the company needs to hire.

3. Stay in touch after sending.
About 1–2 weeks later, you can send a short text message or email to check in and reiterate your desire to return to work. This is both polite and ensures they won't forget you when opportunities arise.

4. Demonstrate professionalism and perseverance.
Even if you don't receive an immediate response, don't be discouraged . Proactively updating your profile, demonstrating your readiness and eagerness to learn will help you make a lasting impression , and may be the reason they contact you first when they have a job opening.

Step 5: Always be ready to return to work at any time.

If you've expressed a desire to return to your previous company, be prepared to work as soon as the opportunity arises . Many companies tend to prioritize rehiring former employees over hiring new ones, as they understand the processes and culture and can adapt quickly—provided you demonstrate that you are always "ready to work."

1. Stay in touch and keep up-to-date on company matters.
Regularly communicate with former colleagues to stay informed about new projects, recruitment plans, or changes in work processes .
For example, if you know a company is expanding production or starting a new campaign, that might be the time they need more staff , and you should proactively contact them right away .

2. Always keep your industry skills and knowledge up-to-date.
Even if you haven't been called back yet, you should still keep track of new trends, technologies, or processes in your field . When you are called back, you will make a strong impression by demonstrating your proactive approach to learning and keeping up with the company's changes.

For example, if the company implements new management software, read the documentation or try it out beforehand so you're ready when you return.

3. Maintain flexibility in your mindset and time.
If the company unexpectedly contacts you and needs someone urgently, being able to start immediately is a huge advantage. This saves them time on training and recruitment , and demonstrates that you are still genuinely committed to and prioritize this company .

4. Prepare your personal files and documents in advance.
Don't wait until they call to start preparing. Keep your CV, application, and other necessary documents ready so you can send them back or sign the contract as soon as they're requested.

Always being ready to return to work immediately demonstrates professionalism and makes the company see you as trustworthy and responsible —the kind of employee everyone wants to keep.

Step 6: Protect your rights and position when you receive compensation.

When you get rehired by your old company, that's great news — but it's also a time when you need to proactively secure your professional rights . Returning after being laid off (whether due to downsizing or other reasons) requires you to think ahead to avoid similar risks in the future .

1. Discuss the new employment contract in detail.
Upon being reinstated, discuss the contract terms and conditions transparently . If possible, propose a minimum commitment of 6 months to 1 year to ensure greater job stability, especially if the company has experienced personnel changes.
This demonstrates your commitment and helps protect your position against unexpected changes .

2. Request that the company recognize your previous employment history.
You could absolutely propose that your previous work experience still count towards your seniority . This would allow you to retain some of your old benefits , such as vacation days, bonuses, or opportunities for promotion.

For example: "I hope the company will consider adding my previous years of service to my total seniority to facilitate the calculation of long-term benefits."

3. Prepare for the possibility of the company facing difficulties again.
If the company has previously had to cut staff due to revenue losses, consider including provisions to protect your position in case a similar situation occurs. You can negotiate additional notice periods or retain priority rights during restructuring .

4. Build your self-worth so that you are not easily replaceable.
Most importantly, demonstrate that you are a valuable asset by:

  • Keep your skills updated regularly.

  • Contribute to key projects.

  • Demonstrate a positive attitude and teamwork spirit.

When you become someone the company doesn't want to lose , your rights will naturally be protected, without the need for too many binding clauses.

References

  1. https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/employment-at-will-definition-30022.html
  2. https://www.osbar.org/public/legalinfo/1100_RightsLoseJob.htm
  3. https://career-advice.monster.com/in-the-office/leaving-a-job/Crawl-Back-to-the-Job-You-Quit/article.aspx
  4. https://www.forbes.com/sites/lisaquast/2014/02/24/8-tips-for-getting-rehired-by-a-former-employer/
  5. https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748703460404575244901392536166
  6. https://www.evancarmichael.com/Human-Resources/5214/Getting-ReHired-By-The-Company-That-Laid-You-Off.html
  7. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/6-reasons-you-shouldnt-quit-without-notice/

Translated by: Lesley Collins Tran .

Melody_Godfred-Tiptory
Melody Godfred, JD Career coach

Melody Godfred is a career coach and founder of Write In Color, a company specializing in personal profile and branding development. With over 10 years of experience, she has supported clients at Apple, Disney, Netflix, and is a trusted advisor to The Muse platform.

Updated on Ngày 16 tháng 07 năm 2026 (GMT +7)

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Mình từng nghỉ việc vì nghĩ công ty không còn gì để học. Ra ngoài mới thấy: cái mình cần học là cách làm việc với người khác, không phải chỉ kỹ năng chuyên môn. Sau một năm “đi bụi” ở vài nơi, mình quay lại công ty cũ với tâm thế khác – biết lắng nghe, biết phối hợp. Và bất ngờ là mình được nhận lại, còn được giao dự án lớn hơn. Đúng là đi một ngày đàng, học mười năm khôn!

Nhân NguyễnOct 9, 2025

Lúc xin quay lại công ty cũ, mình gửi cái CV từ thời… chưa biết dùng Canva. Nhìn lại thấy toàn lỗi chính tả, trình bày như bài văn lớp 5. Sau đó mình đầu tư chỉnh chu lại, thêm mấy kỹ năng mới học được, nhìn vào thấy mình “lên đời” hẳn. Kết quả là được gọi phỏng vấn lại. Bài học rút ra: CV không chỉ là giấy tờ, nó là bản tuyên ngôn của sự trưởng thành!

Thanh MỹOct 9, 2025

Hồi đó mình nghỉ việc vì bị sếp mắng một câu “nghe hơi phũ”, thế là nổi máu tự ái, nộp đơn nghỉ luôn cho ngầu. Ai ngờ ra ngoài mới thấy sếp cũ mắng mà vẫn dạy mình nên người. Quay lại xin việc mà run như đi tỏ tình lại với người yêu cũ. May mà sếp bảo: “Biết sai là tốt, làm lại đi.” Từ đó mình học được bài học: đừng để cảm xúc quyết định sự nghiệp!

Long TrungOct 9, 2025

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It's absolutely possible, as long as you've re-evaluated the situation objectively and are willing to change. Conflict is inevitable in the workplace, but if you've matured, know how to communicate and handle situations skillfully, then returning is an opportunity to demonstrate progress. The important thing is to show a receptive attitude, not blame the past, and demonstrate your willingness to contribute more positively.

You should start with a professional resume, fully updated with recent experience and highlighting the value you've brought to the company. Attitude is also key: remain humble, sincere, and demonstrate a desire for long-term commitment. If possible, reconnect with former bosses or colleagues for a friendly chat, thereby rekindling a positive relationship and paving the way for re-employment opportunities.

If you've ever quit a job due to a momentary lapse of judgment or without notice, a sincere apology can help bridge the gap and restore trust. You don't need to say much; just show that you've realized your mistake and want to make amends through action. A timely apology not only demonstrates your character but also makes a strong impression on your employer.

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