Reapplying for a Job After a Merger or Restructuring

Have you been asked reapply for your own job? Employees are often shocked when they find themselves in the position of having to apply for a job they already have.

It's especially difficult when there isn't advance notice and a group of employees, an entire department, or even most of the employees at a company are told that they can choose between a layoff and a new job at their present employer (if they can get rehired). Why does this happen, and what should you do next?

Why Companies Ask Employees to Reapply

It is not uncommon for employers to formally ask all or some of their current staff to reapply for a job after a merger or acquisition. It can also happen when a company is downsizing or restructuring, layoffs are planned, and there will be a limited number of new positions. In this case, current employees will have to compete for one of the job openings that will be available.

Another reason for asking employees to reapply is that it precludes discrimination issues that could occur if an employer decides to keep some employees and not others during a restructuring.

How to Handle Reapplying

The most common employee reaction is anger, frustration, or disbelief, but it's important not to share your reactions with the company if you plan on reapplying for your old job or a new one at the company. Here are some tips for handling this difficult situation in the best possible manner.

Try to Stay Calm

• Share your understandable feelings with a partner, friend, or counselor outside of work as often as necessary.
• While at work, be careful not to air your frustrations with anyone in either an overt or subtle way. Your employer will favor employees who will have a positive attitude and will add to team morale in the new configuration.

Share Your Best Assets

• Immediately start doing anything extra, such as working late or volunteering for a challenging project, that will prove your strong work ethic and positive attitude.
• Solidify relationships with any managers who might be in line to supervise you in your new job. These connections within the company can help boost your chances of getting rehired.
• Do not assume that your employer knows all about your accomplishments. Some of your achievements may have occurred under the radar and there may be new decision makers who don't know you involved in the evaluation of candidates.

Prepare to Apply for the Job

• Don't presume you'll get the job. There may be a limited number of openings and, regardless of how well you did at your other job, there is no guarantee you will be the candidate selected for the new one.
• Construct your resume with an emphasis on the value that you have added to the company through various accomplishments. Whenever possible, quantify your results and note the skills, knowledge, and personal qualities which have enabled you to generate those successes.
• Write a detailed cover letter that points out your core assets for the job and clearly expresses your enthusiasm for continuing with the reconfigured organization.
• If the job is different from your current role, make it clear how the new responsibilities are attractive and suitable. Also, be clear how you are qualified to handle them.

Even if you eventually plan to leave because the new structure is not to your liking, follow the aforementioned strategies so that you can move on your own timing without an employment gap.

Deciding Not to Reapply

Of course, you aren't obligated to reapply and, in some cases, it can be hard to get over the hard feelings and to see the company and your new role in it in a positive light.

However, even if your employer is offering an attractive severance package and you are confident that you can quickly find a better job, make sure that you leave on good terms.