Navigating Rehire Waves at Norfolk Southern: Strategies for Returning to Familiar Shores

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Norfolk Southern The primary healthcare provider for Norfolk Southern is Anthem, a subsidiary of Elevance Health, which offers a range of health insurance plans to the company's employees. Anthem provides various medical, dental, and vision coverage options, making it a crucial part of the employee benefits package. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we approach 2026, Norfolk Southern employees face significant potential healthcare cost increases, a trend driven by a confluence of factors. With anticipated double-digit hikes in ACA marketplace premiums, some states could see increases exceeding 60%. A report indicates that many large employers, including Norfolk Southern, may shift more healthcare costs onto employees, with 51% planning to raise deductibles or out-of-pocket maximums as medical costs continue to inflate. Workers should be proactive in reviewing their benefits and making informed choices to mitigate the financial impact of these rising expenses in the coming year. Click here to learn more

'Norfolk Southern employees should view rehiring opportunities not just as a return to familiar ground, but as a strategic career move to leverage experience and negotiate improved terms, especially in today's fluid labor market,' — Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

'Norfolk Southern employees navigating rehiring offers should carefully assess their financial goals and career growth opportunities before returning, turning workforce shifts into a strategic advantage,' — Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

In this article, we will discuss:

1. Evaluating whether to return to a former employer after a layoff.

2. How companies like Norfolk Southern are using technology to streamline rehiring.

3. The strategic advantages for both employees and employers in the rehire process.

Many Norfolk Southern employees, along with others in the energy sector, have experienced the flux of being laid off and then rehired, reflecting the unpredictable waves of the labor market. Notably, even industry giants like Norfolk Southern have been part of this trend, recalling employees to navigate through the changing economic landscapes and operational needs.

The decision to return isn't merely about accepting a job offer; it involves a thorough assessment of one’s financial status and other available job prospects. Career adviser Debra Wheatman recommends that individuals evaluate their current financial health and job market opportunities to make a well-informed decision.

Gaining a bit of leverage is often a part of this process. As Wheatman points out, returning employees might have the opportunity to negotiate better terms than before, potentially leading to improved roles, higher compensation, or more stable job conditions at Norfolk Southern.

However, individual stories reveal diverse experiences. For example, after a brief layoff from a marketing agency, Jessica Swenson chose to return as a contractor, finding that the flexibility better suited her career aspirations, emphasizing the growing importance of adaptability in professional settings.

Conversely, Kristie Jones, who dealt with an impersonal layoff process, opted not to return to her previous employer, moving instead into consultancy. This shift underscores a common path for many who seek independence after corporate disenchantments.

Norfolk Southern is leveraging advanced technologies like artificial intelligence through platforms like Visier, which meticulously track employment records to streamline the rehiring process. This methodical approach aids in aligning qualified candidates with suitable positions efficiently, utilizing detailed data analysis [source needed].

Moreover, the corporate recognition of rehiring's advantages, such as reduced onboarding time and familiarity with company culture, is increasing. Reemployed individuals often adapt more quickly and cost-effectively, providing a quicker return on investment for the company.

The manner in which layoffs are executed is crucial, as it affects the likelihood of rehiring. Fostering a respectful layoff process helps preserve professional relationships and keeps a pool of potential candidates ready for when market conditions favor reemployment.

Matt Massucci, CEO of Hirewell, notes that the reasons behind a separation—be it performance issues, strategic shifts, or economic factors—greatly influence rehire possibilities. Both Norfolk Southern and its workforce must navigate these complexities with a clear understanding of each other's perspectives.

Ultimately, the decision to return to Norfolk Southern should come after thoughtful consideration of the pros and cons, influenced by the initial separation's circumstances. As the labor market evolves, such decisions are increasingly viewed as strategic career moves rather than mere opportunities.

The concept of 'unretirement' is becoming prevalent, especially among older workers nearing retirement age. A significant portion of retirees reenters the workforce, driven by the need for engagement or financial necessities. Companies, including Norfolk Southern, appreciate the unique perspectives and reliability that seasoned professionals bring during turbulent economic periods.

Explore how to handle rehire proposals and draw on your experience when considering a return to Norfolk Southern after a layoff. Learn from others who have navigated this path successfully and understand how your familiarity with the company can reduce onboarding challenges and facilitate a smoother reintegration.

Reflecting on the labor market's fluid nature, consider the analogy of ocean tides. Just as tides ebb and flow, Norfolk Southern might reduce its workforce during downturns but also reengage skilled professionals when conditions improve. For those seasoned in navigating these shifts, it presents an opportunity to reassess and potentially return to a familiar environment, equipped with experience and strategic foresight.

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Source:

1. Weber, Lauren. 'The Company That Laid You Off Wants You Back. What Do You Say?'  The Wall Street Journal , 24 Apr. 2025,  www.wsj.com/articles/company-layoffs-rehiring-employees-2025 .

2. Cadmus, Jay. 'I Was Laid Off at 55 and Took 6 Months to Find a Job.'  Business Insider , June 2024,  www.businessinsider.com/laid-off-older-workers-rehire-job-hunt-2024-6 .

3. Schooley, Skye. 'Best Layoff Practices: Can You Lay Off and Hire at the Same Time?'  Business News Daily , 23 Oct. 2023,  www.businessnewsdaily.com/15785-layoff-rehire-best-practices.html .

4. Cook, Ian. 'Hiring After Layoffs: What Employers Need To Know.'  Visier , 19 Sept. 2023,  www.visier.com/blog/hiring-after-layoffs/ .

5. Fischman, Wendy. 'Rehiring Furloughed and Laid-Off Workers Post-Pandemic.'  Potomac Law Group , 13 May 2020,  www.potomaclaw.com/news-rehiring-furloughed-laid-off-workers .