Cover Letter for Returning to Previous Employer: Free Template and Tips

Hey there fellow job seekers, have you ever considered returning to a previous employer? It can be a great option if you’re looking for a new opportunity but still want to work for a company you’re familiar with. However, it’s important to make a good impression when reaching out to them about a potential position. That’s where a cover letter for returning to previous employer template can come in handy. With this template, you can find examples and edit them as needed to create a personalized cover letter that highlights your strengths and why you’re the perfect fit for the job. So why not give it a shot and see where it takes you? Let’s dive into the world of cover letters for returning to previous employers!

The Best Structure for a Cover Letter for Returning to a Previous Employer

Welcome back! So, you’ve decided to return to your previous employer, and now you’re wondering how to craft the perfect cover letter. Fear not, we’re here to help! A cover letter is your chance to showcase your skills and express your interest in the position. Here’s the best structure to follow:

Paragraph 1: Introduction
Start by mentioning your previous position and briefly explaining why you left. Then, express your excitement to be applying for a position with the company again. Be enthusiastic and show that you’re genuinely interested in returning to work with the organization.

Paragraph 2: Highlight Your Achievements
In this paragraph, you should highlight your previous accomplishments and how they align with the company’s goals. Use specific examples of projects you led or milestones you achieved. By doing this, you’re demonstrating that you understand the company’s needs and can contribute positively to the team’s efforts.

Paragraph 3: Explain What You’ve Been Doing Since Leaving
In this paragraph, explain any additional experience or qualifications you have gained since leaving. Highlight any relevant training or skills you have acquired since leaving the company. You want to demonstrate that you have been active in your career and stayed current in your field.

Paragraph 4: Express Your Interest In the Position
Here, you want to convey your excitement for the position and why you feel you would be the best fit for it. Explain how your skills and experience make you the ideal candidate for the job. Make sure you tailor your language to fit the job description and the company’s culture.

Paragraph 5: Wrap Up and Thank Them
In your final paragraph, thank the company for their time and consideration. Reiterate your enthusiasm for the position and express your desire to speak with them further about the opportunity. Provide your contact information and express your willingness to help with any additional questions.

And that’s it! Follow this structure, and you’ll have a well-crafted cover letter that will impress your previous employer and land you the job. Good luck!

7 Sample Cover Letters for Returning to Previous Employer

Sample 1: Returning After Personal Leave

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope this letter finds you well. I recently took a brief personal leave from my position at [Company Name] due to a family matter that needed my full attention. Although it was a difficult decision to make, I knew it was important to prioritize my family.

During my absence, I realized how much I enjoyed working with the team at [Company Name] and how much I valued the relationships I have built with everyone. I am excited to return to work and continue contributing to the success of the company.

Thank you for your understanding during this time. I look forward to hearing from you and hope to return to my position as soon as possible.

Best Regards,

[Your Name]

Sample 2: Returning After Pursuing Higher Education

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. It gives me great pleasure to express my interest in returning to [Company Name] after completing my higher education.

The knowledge I have gained during my time away has equipped me with new skills that will undoubtedly benefit the company. My experience has also deepened my appreciation for the company’s culture, mission, and people, as well as highlighted the strengths that make [Company Name] a fantastic place to work.

I am thrilled to take what I’ve learned and apply it as I return to [Department Name] as a [Job Title]. I greatly appreciate your consideration and the opportunity to rejoin the team at [Company Name].

Thank you once again for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best Regards,

[Your Name]

Sample 3: Returning After Being Laid Off

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope all is well with you and the team at [Company Name]. I am writing to express my interest in returning to my previous role as [Job Title] after being laid off due to the pandemic.

My time at [Company Name] was immensely gratifying, and I have always admired the company’s values and commitment to excellence. Since my departure, I have continually followed the company’s growth journey and have become even more enthusiastic about the exciting initiatives undertaken by the company.

As an experienced and skilled [Job Title] professional, I am confident I can make a valuable contribution to the [Department Name] team. I am eager to be part of the organization’s progress and growth as we navigate the post-pandemic world.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how I can support [Company Name] using my skills and expertise.

Best Regards,

[Your Name]

Sample 4: Returning After a Career Break

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my interest in returning to [Company Name]. I had previously worked as [Job Title] before taking a career break to focus on personal issues.

The time away from work has reminded me of my passion for my field and the many contributions I can make to [Company Name]. My experience and skills will undoubtedly assist me in assuming the responsibilities of my previous role.

Working with [Company Name] was a great experience, and I cherish the relationships I developed with my colleagues. It would be a pleasure and an honor to return to the organization.

I appreciate your time and consideration. I look forward to the opportunity to come in for a meeting and discuss my application.

Best Regards,

[Your Name]

Sample 5: Returning After Relocation

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope this letter finds you in good health and spirits. Since my move to [Location], I have reflected on my career and what I want for my future. One thing that has become clear to me is that I miss the team at [Company Name].

I enjoyed working as [Job Title] in [Department Name] and have found myself recalling the camaraderie and fulfillment it brought me. Therefore, I would like to express my interest in rejoining [Company Name] as a [Job Title].

In particular, my familiarity with the organization will be a significant asset in my transition back to the team. I am eager to bring my experience and skills to [Company Name] and look forward to making a positive contribution to the organization’s future.

Thank you for your support and consideration; I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best Regards,

[Your Name]

Sample 6: Returning After Maternity Leave

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope this letter finds you in good health and spirits. I am writing to express my interest in returning to work as [Job Title] at [Company Name] after an extended maternity leave.

While taking care of my newborn has been the greatest joy of my life, I also miss my professional life and the joy and satisfaction it brings me. I miss being a part of the team at [Company Name] and engaging in our collective pursuit of excellence.

I am excited to return to work and apply the skills and knowledge gained during my leave to contribute to the company’s growth and success into the future. I am confident that my renewed enthusiasm and dedication will enable me to perform my duties as a [Job Title] to the highest standard.

Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to hearing back from you and resuming my work as part of the team at [Company Name].

Best Regards,

[Your Name]

Sample 7: Returning After Health Issues

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope this letter finds you in excellent health. I am writing to express my interest in returning to work as [Job Title] at [Company Name] after recovering from my health issues.

I am immensely grateful for the support and understanding shown by the company during my health-related absences. My experience with [Company Name] has always been positive and enjoyable, and my colleagues are among the best I have had the pleasure of working with.

Returning to work with the company would be a dream come true. I miss the company’s daily routines, the challenges it posed, and the achievements we celebrated. As a [Job Title], I promise to work diligently and contribute my knowledge and skills to the best of my ability to achieve our collective goals.

Thank you so much for your consideration, and I am eagerly looking forward to hearing back from you soon.

Best Regards,

[Your Name]

Tips for Writing a Cover Letter to a Previous Employer

Returning to a previous employer may seem like a bit of a daunting task. However, it is not impossible. Writing a cover letter is a crucial step in the process of reaching out to your previous employer. The cover letter is your chance to express your interest in the job and explain why you are the right fit. Here are some in-depth tips to make writing the cover letter to your previous employer a success

  • Avoid being presumptuous: When writing a cover letter, avoid assuming that the job is yours automatically. It is essential to communicate your skills and achievements to show what value you bring to the organization you are applying to. Be confident but not presumptuous.
  • Highlight what has changed since you left: Whether you left to pursue other career opportunities or to take a break from work, you must acknowledge what has changed in your life. This way, the hiring manager can understand why you are applying again. Your time away from the organization might have equipped you with new skill sets and experience, which would make you an ideal candidate for the job.
  • Address why you left: If you left the company on good terms, it is essential to highlight that. If you left for a negative reason, such as a family emergency or a health issue, it is essential to address that in your cover letter. This helps the employer to understand why you left and why you are applying again.
  • Show your enthusiasm: When applying for a job, it is crucial to show your enthusiasm and passion for the position. Employers are more likely to hire someone who is excited about the job and the organization. Be sure to express your enthusiasm in your cover letter.
  • Customize your cover letter: Even if you are returning to your previous employer, it is important to customize your cover letter. Do not use the same cover letter you used when you applied years ago. Take the time to update your cover letter and make it specific to the job.

In conclusion, writing a cover letter to a previous employer is all about being authentic and transparent. Addressing why you are applying and why you left is essential. Highlighting your achievements and skills and showing your enthusiasm will also help you to increase your chances of securing the job. Remember to take your time to craft a customized cover letter that will show the hiring manager that you are the perfect candidate for the job.

FAQs related to Cover Letter for Returning to Previous Employer Template

1. What is a cover letter for returning to a previous employer?

A cover letter for returning to a previous employer is a document that you send to the company you previously worked with to express your interest in returning to work with them.

2. Why is it important to write a cover letter when returning to a previous employer?

Writing a cover letter when returning to a previous employer is important because it shows that you are serious about wanting to come back and work for the company. It also allows you to remind the employer of your professional skills and experience.

3. What should I include in my cover letter for returning to a previous employer?

In your cover letter for returning to a previous employer, you should include your reasons for leaving the company, your reasons for wanting to come back, and any updates on your professional experience and achievements since you left the company. You should also express your enthusiasm for rejoining the company.

4. How should I address my cover letter when returning to a previous employer?

When addressing your cover letter for returning to a previous employer, you should include the name and job title of the person who will be reading your letter. You can address the letter to them personally, or to the human resources department.

5. How should I format my cover letter for returning to a previous employer?

Your cover letter for returning to a previous employer should follow a standard business letter format, including your name and contact information, the date, the employer’s name and contact information, and a formal greeting and closing. You should also use a professional font and format the letter in a way that is easy to read.

6. What tone should I use in my cover letter for returning to a previous employer?

You should use a polite and professional tone in your cover letter for returning to a previous employer. Express gratitude for the opportunity to work with the company in the past, and express your sincere interest and enthusiasm for returning to work with them.

7. How can I personalize my cover letter for returning to a previous employer?

To personalize your cover letter for returning to a previous employer, you can mention specific projects or accomplishments from your previous tenure with the company that showcase your skills and experience. You can also reference any personal connections or relationships you have with current employees or management.

Thanks for stopping by!

We hope this template helps you as you consider returning to work for a previous employer. Remember, a cover letter is a great way to showcase your skills and enthusiasm for a job opportunity. Make sure to tailor your letter to the specific job and company, and don’t forget to proofread before sending it off. Good luck in your job search! And be sure to come back soon for more career and job search advice.