Any Recommendations for Approaching Former Employer

 Hello Doug

I've been in a situation that had some similarities to this. In my case, my fixed-term contract had come to an end so I was looking for a new job. I decided to go freelance and because I had left a previous employer on good terms they were one of the first people I contacted when trying to drum up some business. I got on well with the operations manager, so I called him up on the phone and was open about my reasons for calling. They started giving me business the following week and this was gradually increased as time went on.

Lots of people probably send resumes and emails to your old employer looking for a job. But, you have existing relationships at that company that you can leverage. You also said yourself that you're still in contact with your former boss. Call them up and let them know that you're looking to return. Ask whether he/she know of any suitable opportunities in the business?

If you're current company is being sold, it wouldn't surprise me if that news wasn't already known on the grapevine among your former colleagues/peers. So, depending on your relationship with your former boss, I don't think that's something you should hide. I'm pretty sure there was a podcast a few years ago about using your network to find a new job. It may be worth looking back through the archive to see if you can find it, too.

The most important thing to remember is: don't sound desperate. You're just giving the latest news to someone in your network - someone you've already made a point of keeping in touch with. Ask if they know of any opportunities. If they don't, then that's fine. End the call in a polite and upbeat manner. If they do hear of anything ask them to keep you in mind.