Onboarding: Best Practices
As specialist internal communications recruiters, we understand the importance of employee engagement and its impact on performance and retention. The UK economy loses £340 billion annually due to disengaged employees (Mundey, 2023). This highlights the need for an effective onboarding process, which can significantly enhance employee satisfaction, cultural integration, retention, and long-term performance. Here are some top tips for best practices in onboarding new recruits:
Pre-Boarding Communication
Sending welcome emails to new hires in advance provides a great start, helping them feel welcome and prepared for their first day. As their manager, provide sufficient information about what to expect, including arrival time and the office address. Consider mentioning details such as the dress code and how to navigate the office or retrieve a guest pass for security, if needed. Ensure they are as prepared as you are!
Structured Onboarding Plan
Starting a new role can be daunting for new hires. Develop a meaningful and organized plan covering their first week of work. Dedicate specific slots for training schedules, meetings, and introductions to team members to ease them into the role.
Buddies & Mentors
Assigning a buddy or mentor can be exciting and effective in helping new hires settle into the job. The buddy should communicate the company’s culture and values and serve as a ‘go-to’ for questions or concerns. This reduces the intimidation factor often associated with meeting many seasoned team members.
Communicating Expectations & Goals
While allowing new hires to settle in gradually, clearly communicate performance expectations and key responsibilities in the first week. This helps them get into the right mindset and work towards both short-term and long-term goals for the business. Schedule regular check-ins to ensure they are settling in well and consider any feedback they may provide.
Team Building
Organize team-building activities or socials ahead of the new hire’s start. This fosters connections among team members and demonstrates the organizational culture. Encourage existing team members to invite the new hire out for lunch or help with collaborative projects. Small interactions make a significant difference in the onboarding experience.
Remember, as a manager or team member, the ultimate goal of onboarding is to create a positive experience that allows new hires to feel welcome and confident in their role. By putting yourself in their shoes and imagining the experience you would want on your first day, you can develop a smooth and productive onboarding plan.
References:
Mundey, M. (2023) 7 Key Benefits of Onboarding for Employees. Available at: https://www.think-learning.com/onboarding/benefits-of-onboarding/
