Onboarding
This is where it all begins folks. Your onboarding process can be the determining factor in how well your new employee settles in, not only in the first few weeks of work, but for the long term. Proper onboarding is key to a successful transition for your new, and existing employees.
Onboarding is a more strategic process of inclusion during the first 30-90 days and beyond. It has a cultural focus on helping new hires become familiar with the ‘unwritten rules’ of how work is accomplished and learn how to navigate the organization’s culture. Information flows in two directions, enabling new hires to ask questions and talk about their expectations and experiences.
Why onboard new employees?
- It helps to put the new employee at ease.
- It reduces the chances of mistakes being made during the early period of
- It allows the new employee to be productive as soon as possible.
- The organization is assured that all appropriate paperwork and new employee training is in place.
- It improves lines of communication.
- It supports an organization’s commitment to having a safe work environment.
A few tips for onboarding.
- It never hurts to have a checklist of onboarding tasks (I have one I can share if you like)
- Advise the new employee of where to report and to whom on the first day.
- Share any unwritten rules with the new employee.
- Provide them with details about any information they need to bring in order to start work, such as safety footwear, documents, required tools, etc. Also take care of arranging for
- anything like uniform fittings.
- Assign someone (ideally an Orientation Facilitator) to conduct the job orientation. If an organization has a dedicated Human Resource person, this is typically who would take on this role. Otherwise, someone in the company would have to assume the responsibility.
- Where applicable, ensure the new employee’s work area/station is prepared. This includes having computers, tools, equipment, uniforms, telephones, lockers, etc. assigned and set up.
- Arrange for keys, security passes, parking permits, etc.
- Let the other employees know when the new person will be starting and let them know what the new employee’s role and general responsibilities will be, especially in cases where there will be a lot of interaction between the employees.
Do you have an on-boarding process in place for your company/organization? If not, I can help! Give me a call or drop me a line and we can set up a time to meet to put a plan in motion. Best part, my services are free!!
Tracy Isenor
902-201-5954