I want to go back.

Anonymous

April 18,2022 at 11:47AM UTC

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I want to go back.

I had been working for a small manufacturing company for about two years. It was close to home, the work was challenging, and my manager was the best boss I ever had. The problem was that the pay was well below market value for the responsibilities that I was performing. I had also been working a second job to make up the difference. After several months of haggling for a raise, I received one that was so disappointing, I almost cried. This was not entirely my manager's fault; the company's owner did not see the value of my position. So, I decided to look for another job.

I finally received an offer from a better company which allowed me to quit both jobs and work a 40-hour week, so I promptly quit both jobs and accepted the offer. I was thrilled with all of my new-found time. Then reality set in.

My new job is tedious, regimented, and the culture is terrible. The commute is also very grueling. Although the training is expected to take over a year, in the first week I am being pressured to keep a pace that is preventing me from learning a highly detailed system. The young lady training me has stated that I make a salary similar to hers (after 10 years), and she is highly skilled. The VP also talks to her like she is a child, and he has never even said hi to me. Several people in my office have mentioned being on the phone all night with customers. These are all huge problems for me.

Meanwhile, my ex-boss has been emailing and texting me constantly and has admitted that the company has made a huge mistake regarding my salary and has asked me to come back (at 30K above my previous salary and 15K above my current salary). I am certain they have had no sucess at replacing me because my skills are highly specialized in their industry. I am also certain that this is not some kind of trick to fire me in the furure.

So, is it wrong for me to immediately quit my new job during my training period and go back to my old job? Regardless of what I do, I am sure that I don't want to stay in my current position one more day.

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Rebecca AliApril 18,2022 at 12:19PM UTC
Never stay in a role because you feel guilty about leaving. That's a huge red flag in both professional and personal settings. I think you should be very clear on why you left and why you would return. Also, be honest about your old company - why did you have to leave before they valued you enough to pay you what you're worth? Play it out in your head what it will be like in a year or two or five. Are there things you are seeing through rose-colored glasses? Bottom line - if you want to return, you should weigh the pros and cons for what's good for you, not the companies.
AnonymousApril 18,2022 at 12:22PM UTC
No- I have done that and never regret
Erin BeemerApril 18,2022 at 12:28PM UTC
If you want to return, you should...
but make sure this new salary is where it should be in terms of the market. You have more leverage now than you will have later so don't be afraid to ask for more $$.
Heather CutlerApril 18,2022 at 12:29PM UTC
Cut your losses and move back to the old position. The conversation may be uncomfortable and it’s likely they’ll tell you to pack up and leave immediately but that’s ok! Best of luck to you!
Rae WagonerApril 18,2022 at 1:07PM UTC
Girl. Go home! It is sad that it took you leaving for the ex-boss to see your value, but looks like things went to crap after you left. Win/Win, and you have negotiating power. $30K above what you were making is A LOT, and I bet he'd throw in an extra week vacation if you asked.
Deb HornerApril 18,2022 at 1:32PM UTC
Take the offer and go back to what you love! A good boss, a sweet commute, and the money you deserve are all in the plus column.
Andrea Macek, Career Change Coach for Professional WomenApril 18,2022 at 1:51PM UTC
I'm sorry to hear that you're new role isn't what you expected, that's frustrating, but it's also good that you're gaining that clarity early on.
It's not wrong to leave while you're still training, and most companies offer a trial period in the first 90-days of employment so that each party can assess how it's going. That being said, you want to make sure you're not burning bridges because you never know.
Before you give your notice, I would make sure that you have a signed offer from your old company and that everything is in writing before you give your notice.
Also, you'll want to the offer letter/employment agreement for your current role to make sure that you're not obligated to stay a certain period of time before leaving, and check for any non-compete language. Some companies require that you can't work for companies in the same industry for a certain period of time after you leave.
You also want to make sure that you're prepared with how you want to communicate to your current boss that you're leaving in why. You'll want to be honest and professional in that communication -if you can't have that conversation face to face, I would do Zoom or a phone call and avoid email.
I hope this helps! I'm wishing you all the best!
AnonymousApril 18,2022 at 3:34PM UTC
Thank you for your advice. The two companies are in two entirely different industries, and I would be quite suspicious of any company who asks for a signed non-compete agreement when the position is not an officer of the company. Huge red flag. I would never sign.
AnonymousApril 18,2022 at 1:52PM UTC
Congratulations for having an escape route. RUN back to your old job! If your old manager can wait, I would offer 2 weeks notice at your new job. Although it’s a courtesy, since you have zero interest in staying or returning in the future, it’s best not to burn a bridge and do right by yourself. I would simply resign, offer the two weeks, and be firm - you do not need to tell them you are going back - just tell them this job isn’t a fit for you. If they have an HR Department and offer an exit interview, since you really have no interest in a future relationship or opportunities there, be honest about your experiences - a company can’t fix problems they don’t know exist.
AnonymousApril 18,2022 at 2:25PM UTC
Do it!
AnonymousApril 18,2022 at 2:35PM UTC
I agree! Do it! I Am in the same boat right now, going back to where I started! I Have been here for about 9 months but its just not my thing! Go for it!!! Wishing you the best!
Vikki Mueller EspinosaApril 18,2022 at 2:49PM UTC
It's not wrong. Quit and go back. You never have to put it on your resume. No one needs to know. You don't even have to give two weeks notice. That's a courtesy. Not a requirement. Get the offer in writing from your old company. Sign whatever you need to sign. Negotiate what you want - you're in the driver's seat. And go back.
AmyApril 18,2022 at 4:12PM UTC
get it in writing is great advice!
Dawn S. CrossApril 18,2022 at 6:24PM UTC
Look at it this way - they found out you are valuable. The new company is stressful.
Negotiate fairly with you old company and if they offer you a job, get it (and all details) in writing. Offer notice to your new company and leave with your head held high.
It is nice to be valued and nice to “go home” again.
April MinerApril 18,2022 at 9:56PM UTC
Quit that yuck job and go back!
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistApril 19,2022 at 5:15AM UTC
No! It is in no way wrong. You have to do what is best for you.
Just make sure you get whatever your old company promises you IN WRITING.
Crystal HowellApril 19,2022 at 10:51AM UTC
No, Just do you! Dont worry about being fired, your skillset speaks for itself.
I would check with their competition and see if you can get more. Know your options.
Shenelle S. LaPierreApril 19,2022 at 10:54AM UTC
No it’s not wrong to quit. You’ve realized the job responsibilities, commute and others things just aren’t a fit for you and that’s okay. Sounds like the only reason you left was for being undervalued and underpaid. The fact the company realizes this and wants you back means they have a lot to do on their end with understanding exactly what their employees do because a lot of these VP’s, and Directors have no clue what people do on the ground floor. It’s sad but a common reality. I say go back to doing what you love and having more personal time now that you’ll only need to work the 1 job. Best of luck.
Kirstie ParkerApril 19,2022 at 12:58PM UTC
In my mind there is no question and no reason to even think twice. Go back to your old job ASAP! The new raise being offered is amazing and shows that they understand your value. Go back to the place you love!
AnonymousApril 19,2022 at 1:25PM UTC
There are other options, not just 2 roles to consider. You can look for a new role, one that has a great boss and great pay. Stick it out where you are till you find that better role.
Remember: Any job is better than no job, a good job is better than a any job and a great job is better than a good job.
Keep looking. You have many options out there.
AnonymousApril 19,2022 at 2:23PM UTC
Not at all! I think hiring ex-employees (called "boomerangs" by some) is something happening more and more as some people regret changing jobs in the past 2 years. Good luck and text your boss back!
Tomilyn RichardsApril 20,2022 at 11:21AM UTC
Do what's best for you... if the culture of the new job is already bad... it is unlikely it will get better. That is on them... not you!! Go back to being happy!! =)
Paula Manczuk-HannayApril 20,2022 at 12:21PM UTC
Not wrong at all. Take the offer and go back.
Charla DubesApril 20,2022 at 12:27PM UTC
For my two cents, you are not obligated to anyone other than yourself and your family. Make the decision that is best for you and those within your household. I’ve been thinking a lot about career progression lately and have realized those who drive their career experience growth in salary, responsibility, and respect. Those of us who lean into feelings of obligation to employers often stall our careers or never realize our earning potential. I think you did the right thing when you chose to leave your previous employer AND you will be doing the right thing when you return to them. Good luck. We are rooting for you!
AnonymousApril 20,2022 at 12:27PM UTC
I wouldn’t think twice. And your new company will always do what’s best for them and wouldn’t think twice about laying you off or firing you if they one day decided to do so, so why not put yourself first too.
Shelley Maley, Career Coach (PHR, GCDF)April 20,2022 at 12:29PM UTC
You have a fabulous opportunity in front of you. Quit the new job and go back to where you are appreciated. No doubt the new company will survive without you, so please don't feel guilty for doing what's best for YOU!
Lisa MarieApril 20,2022 at 12:34PM UTC
Reality also kicked in for your old company as well.
There should be no hesitation here. You simply must do what is best for you, both emotionally and financially.
AnonymousApril 20,2022 at 12:34PM UTC
Nope. Do it. Go back.
Paulla Fetzek, MSEdApril 20,2022 at 12:45PM UTC
Employees have just as much right to see if a job is a good fit for them. Your post clearly shows you're unhappy. And it's never good to stay in a job this way. I did it for 4 years (my previous job) and was miserable.
If you have the offer lined up with your previous job - You certainly have a right to go back!
All the best.
Julie AndrewsApril 20,2022 at 12:55PM UTC
This one is so easy.
Quit. Today. And be so thankful your old group saw the error of their ways. There is no substitute for a job you love-and a culture that is healthy and good! Go back!
Might give two weeks if possible. Always good to leave on good terms.
AnonymousApril 20,2022 at 1:01PM UTC
Do it. Go back. Take a week or two off in between if your financial situation will allow it to give yourself that mental reset that you may be needing.
Glad that they are realizing that they shouldn’t have allowed you to leave. But I wish it wouldn’t have come to that. Why can’t good employees be valued?!?!
MelissaApril 20,2022 at 1:03PM UTC
It is never wrong to do what is best for you and your career!
AnonymousApril 20,2022 at 1:22PM UTC
I went back to my previous employer after about 8 months away at an international company and I am definitely happier.
You don't owe the new company anything other than the grace of two-weeks' notice, you tried them and it's just not a good situation for you. Be comfortable moving on. Just be prepared that the new company might tell you that you're done immediately (rather than in two weeks) since you're still in a training period.
And like others have mentioned, if you can swing it financially, take time off before starting with your previous company. Enjoy not commuting for a few days, sleep in, treat yo' self!
AnonymousApril 20,2022 at 1:45PM UTC
No I think that since they are reaching and now valuing your worth is respecting.
Celeste Glasgow RibbinsApril 20,2022 at 2:17PM UTC
Just stopping by to add to the "leave now" chorus. You have a wonderful opportunity to go back into an environment you liked and was convenient for you at a salary you deserve. The universe is smiling on you. Accept the offer, tender your resignation, and don't look back.
AnonymousApril 20,2022 at 2:29PM UTC
Go back. Go back now. Don’t think about it, just do it. Get the offer in writing before turning in your notice at the crappy job, get a confirmed start date and salary and just do it.
Joanna PoeApril 20,2022 at 2:42PM UTC
Red flags at the new place, and it's a crap commute. Go now and thank your lucky stars.
Diane CohenApril 20,2022 at 2:45PM UTC
Run, don't walk back to your old job!!!
Rhonda RoyalApril 20,2022 at 3:00PM UTC
LEAVE this stressful environment! You have the promise of going back to a place you really, really, loved! No long commute, no insensitivity, no STRESS! Go back to your fave!
AnonymousApril 20,2022 at 3:33PM UTC
Go!! You were happy and they obviously love you. In the end - it’s about you getting up happy and not being miserable. Do what makes you feel happy and now you can have both financial security and a place you belong. Im happy for you.
Carolyn HipkinsApril 20,2022 at 3:33PM UTC
Get the offer in writing before you go back. If they have the money now they had it before. They did not value you before. Be careful with them.
Pamela TorresApril 20,2022 at 3:51PM UTC
Go back but as stated below first have your former employer send you the offer in writing. Once you receive it then you can accept it. This is a Win-Win for you.
AnonymousApril 20,2022 at 3:52PM UTC
Oh my gosh!!! Run! Run back to your old Company. They want you. You want them. The new company isn’t good and you owe them nothing! Go back today!!
Lynne BaileyApril 20,2022 at 5:24PM UTC
Quit
Maegan, Nike Sales Rep & Career CoachApril 20,2022 at 7:54PM UTC
Go back! Sounds like that is the better fit for you all around. Congrats :)
Tara O'ConnorApril 21,2022 at 12:35PM UTC
Yes. Go!
AnonymousApril 21,2022 at 12:42PM UTC
NOPE! GO!!!RUN!! If you were happy and they now see the value of your role and going to compensate fairly, run like the wind! You owe this new company nothing - they would not consider your feelings if they needed to let you go. Take the offer from your previous manager. Side Note - this is why it's always so important to leave most (not all, but most) positions in as good a standing as possible.
AnonymousApril 22,2022 at 12:38AM UTC
Absolutely not. These jobs have no loyalty to anyone but themselves. Do what's best for you.
Robyn McCabria KelsoApril 22,2022 at 12:34PM UTC
Go for it! Glad your former company realized what they lost!
Karen GongawareApril 22,2022 at 6:07PM UTC
Quit when you get the old boss's offer in writing, and sign the contract.
Then run away and go back as fast as you can. If you never plan on going back to the New Place of Idiocy, just leave and go to work at your Old Place of Goodness. No 2 week, just go.
NicoleApril 24,2022 at 3:11PM UTC
You owe the new company nothing, and remember they would likely just as easily let you go if they had found a better option or profit was down.
As for the old company, I normally would say "never go back" because they probably haven't changed. Like a cheating spouse or significant other they only realized they messed up once you left. BUT since your only complaint was the salary and they made quite the increase in the offer to get you back, I'm supportive. Just remind yourself, it might be likely that you bump into the "can't get a raise" issue again. So long as you're okay with that, just leave. Like the one person said, get the offer in writing, negotiate a start date and just leave.
Lastly, if I were in your shoes I would also negotiate maintaining any seniority/time based benefits you had. Like for example of you had earned additionally annual pto/time off, negotiate that you still get that earned time, or vesting in 401k etc, negotiate all that like you had never left.
Wishing you the best!
Liz MilneApril 24,2022 at 10:45PM UTC
Go back. I can't think of what is keeping you from getting more money in a job where you will now be appreciated and no longer have to work a second job.