Asking for your old job back after leaving is never easy. If it has been a long time since you left, your previous employer has probably already hired someone else to replace you. If you left on less-than-ideal terms, your old boss might be hesitant to give you another chance. However, if you left on good terms and can convince your old boss that having you back on the team is mutually beneficial, you can convince him you are worth a second chance.

Be Honest

Think about how you quit the job. Ask yourself if you left on good terms, and if you completed the job to the best of your ability before you left. If you gave adequate notice, followed through with all of your commitments and left the company in good shape to transition to your replacement, you stand a better chance of getting your job back. If you hurried out the door without doing much to help the company, it will be a tough sell.

Update Your Resume

Revamp your resume with any skills and training you have picked up since you left the job. Include anything you learned that has a direct connection to your previous job. For example, if you were in the accounting department, highlight any continuing education classes you took on new accounting standards and principles. Since you might need to fill out another application and go through the hiring process all over again, an updated resume can be helpful. Include a cover letter with a brief explanation of why you want to return to the company, and how you can benefit it. Make sure you address it to your prior boss or someone who knows you.

Schedule an Appointment

Contact your old boss through an email or phone call and schedule an appointment. Let her know you are interested in coming back to work for her. Be upfront about your reasons. For example, you might explain that you miss the work environment and camaraderie you felt with the company, or that your new job is not what you thought it would be. Be careful not to criticize your current employer. Instead, focus on the positive reasons you want to return to your old job, such as the potential for professional advancement.

Other Options

If your old job is unavailable, see if there are any other positions at the company you could fill. Forbes suggests talking to either your old boss or someone from human resources about what else is available. There might be other areas within the company where your skills would make a good fit. For example, if you worked in a sales position previously, you might make a good candidate for a job in marketing because you know what customers are looking for and can help tailor marketing strategies to fit customer needs.