What exactly happened with Zomato’s alumni outreach on February 12?

Deepinder Goyal invited ex-staff to reconnect, including a direct message option on WhatsApp. The call drew 8,000 emails and led to 400 former employees rejoining. This points to a strong alumni network and a push to boost execution speed across Eternal Limited’s operations, including Blinkit and Hyperpure.

Why should Australian investors care about WhatsApp hiring?

It may lower recruitment costs and speed up execution, which can improve delivery times and unit economics. These shifts can influence competitor playbooks across Australia’s on-demand and marketplace sectors. Faster onboarding and better service reliability often translate to steadier customer metrics and, over time, stronger cash generation potential.

What are boomerang employees and why do they matter now?

Boomerang employees are former staff who return to a company. They ramp faster, know the culture, and can stabilize operations in growth phases. For investors, this can reduce execution risk and improve near-term KPIs. The trade-off is ensuring fresh ideas still enter through external hiring channels.

What risks should we watch with direct messaging for recruitment?

Key risks include bias from informal channels, data privacy issues, and inconsistent documentation. Companies should use consented lists, formalize offers in HR systems, and audit outcomes for pay equity and fair access. Clear policies keep speed gains from WhatsApp balanced with governance and compliance needs.

Global Market Insights

February 12: WhatsApp Hiring Call Floods Zomato with 8,000 Emails

ByDanny Kontos February 12, 2026February 12, 2026

WhatsApp hiring is back in the spotlight after Zomato founder Deepinder Goyal said his alumni call on February 12 drew 8,000 emails and 400 rehires. He even invited former colleagues to message him directly. For Australian investors, this shows a fast, cost-aware talent move that could lift delivery speed across Eternal Limited’s Blinkit and Hyperpure. We break down what this means for execution, risks to monitor, and how Zomato alumni returns may shape culture and output in quick-commerce battles.