Two thirds of businesses failing to capitalise on returning ex-employees

New research has revealed that more than two thirds (71%) of businesses do not have an offboarding process in place designed to enable employees to leave on good terms – an activity which could leave the door open for a potential future return.

At the same time, more than three quarters (78%) of businesses are currently experiencing problems replacing departing employees; around a fifth (21%) of businesses said they struggle to replace departing employees before the end of their notice period, and 22% struggle to find suitable replacements.

The research, from training and reskilling expert, Wiley Edge, showed that 22% of businesses regularly have one or more roles unfilled at any given time, and more than a quarter (26%) regularly have a period of one month or more between an employee leaving an their replacement starting.

Yet although 28% of businesses said they have noticed an increase in the number of ex-employees returning to the business, only 23% said that former employees regularly do so, and a quarter (25%) said that they almost never do, suggesting many organisations are failing to capitalise on the opportunity.

While 37% of businesses said they have been told by returning employees that a strong offboarding process allowed them to leave on good terms, only 35% of businesses said that departing employees are encouraged to give honest feedback, 29% said their offboarding process celebrates the achievements of the departing employee and 26% give employees the chance to have an exit interview with a senior member of the business.

Tom Seymour, senior HR director at Wiley Edge, said: “Many businesses are falling victim to the growing skills shortage, a problem which is being exacerbated by the ongoing ‘great resignation’.

“Businesses should always ensure they have a strong offboarding process, as happy former employees who speak highly of their old workplaces are an important tool when it comes to building a strong employer brand.

“However, employees who have left on positive terms may also be more inclined to return to the business at some point in the future, creating a much-needed source of trained talent.

“Not only can this help businesses to tackle skills gaps, it also means any time and money spent on employees’ training and professional development will continue to be a valuable investment.”

“The skills shortage in many fields is showing little signs of improving, so businesses must start using all the recruitment strategies available to them if they are to overcome the issue.”