If you were laid off during the downturn and took a temp job or one you weren’t really suited for just to pay the bills, you’re not alone. What's more, many engineers who were laid off have learned that their old employer is once again hiring.
The good news is that if you left your old company on good terms, you may have a chance at getting your old job back. In other words, if you left on a positive note, didn’t badmouth your boss or coworkers, and kept your resume up to date, you have a shot. You also have an advantage over other candidates in that you know your old boss (assuming he or she still has his or her job at the company).
If that’s the case, tell your old boss that you're eager to come back. Ask if there are any current political issues you should be aware of going in. When you go in for an interview, don’t say anything negative about your current situation. Keep it on a positive note.
Be prepared to answer any questions on how you would increase your efficiency and cut costs (if your parting was amicable, cutting costs was one of the reasons you were laid off). Bring yourself up to speed on any new products or engineering programs the company has taken up since you left. Ask about this before the interview to give yourself enough time to do some research on the subject. Finally, be positive and upbeat. And be willing to accept a slightly reduced salary if necessary.
Got any thoughts on getting your old engineering job back? Include your comments in the section below.
Alex A. Kecskes has written hundreds of published articles on health/fitness, "green" issues, TV/film entertainment, restaurant reviews and many other topics. As a former Andy/Belding/One Show ad agency copywriter, he also writes web content, ads, brochures, sales letters, mailers and scripts for national B2B and B2C clients. Please see more of his blogs and view additional job postings on Nexxt.
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