Integrating new employees into your company is a long and sometimes challenging process that entails introducing them to the culture, work ethics, responsibilities, goals, and many other aspects of your business. While it may seem time-consuming, it’s important for the success of your business. Why? Individuals who are well-oriented about your business operations will have the knowledge and tools needed to push your vision forward. Research shows that each organisation should find a way to implement onboarding strategies that bring positive and long-lasting results. But what are some of the key components of an effective employee onboarding program? Let’s discuss.
Have Onboarding HR Software
We have moved into the digital world, and as much as the physical onboarding process seems easier, it can be time-consuming. Nowadays, there are software programs such as BambooHR and Eloomi that can facilitate all onboarding features. This kind of software can simplify the onboarding process and ensure that new employees have easy access to their new roles and daily tasks. With a good system in place, employees can access a portal where you can send them videos or images to help them familiarise themselves with the organisation. It streamlines the process and the HR department doesn’t have to keep physically calling the employees or send them emails back and forth. Employees will feel part of the organisation right from day one.
Welcome New Employees Before Day One
Don’t wait for your new hires to start their job to jumpstart the onboarding process. Ensure you welcome them before the first day. This process can include introducing them to the culture of the organisation and introducing them to the rest of the team, among other crucial aspects of the organisation. You can do this by familiarising your new hires with the norms of your company, reiterating the company values and setting expectations from the beginning. Send your employees comprehensive profiles of your company. You can request other employees to create a brief profile about themselves, such as their qualifications and role in the organisation. This will help new recruits have an idea of your business before they start working.
Create a Friendly Workspace for New Employees
The onboarding process also entails creating a great workspace for new employees. List the items that the individuals will require such as a desk, chair, office space, and computers, among others for easy planning and setup. Personalise the workstation to meet the needs of the new hires. For instance, you could set up secretaries with the necessary stationery, printers and filing cabinets. When an employee starts their new job, everything should be in place so they can hit the ground running their very first day.
Each employee should have the proper identification to facilitate effective communication in the organisation, so you may need to buy staff new badges and have them personalised to indicate their name and role in the organisation. This ensures the new hires are easily identifiable by other employees and customers.
Have Well-Defined Policies & Information
Create policies and a well-defined employee benefits program for your new hires. The policies should have comprehensive information such as tax liabilities, insurance, leave policies, and any other benefits your employees will enjoy. When your employees report on the first day, take them through these policies and the employee benefits program, and ensure they sign the necessary documents. With good onboarding software, you can share with them the required forms and documents. This will ensure they are familiar with the compliance requirements before they start working.
Proper Training
Training is a critical part of the onboarding process and is conducted by the manager or other experienced employees. This process helps the new members understand the process and functions of your firm. Qualified personnel can teach them how to operate your software and perform basic functions. Even experienced individuals require rigorous training to align with your organisation’s goals and meet set expectations.
Each Employee Should Have a Mentor
When you hire new employees, ensure they have a qualified mentor who can guide them through the job. This helps the new hires cope with any potential work-related stress and build their confidence while they’re still learning. With a mentor, the employees can understand the company policies and set procedures clearly.
Have Continuous Check-Ins
Onboarding is a continuous process and you need to frequently check on how your new hires are adapting to the system. Decide how long you will meet with your new employees. Offer feedback and support to these individuals. You can make use of trackable metrics to gauge the performance of the employees. Discuss their progress and elaborate on complicated policies and programs. Employees who feel appreciated and their concerns addressed are likely to be very productive and propel the vision of your firm forward.
Conclusion
Onboarding can feel like a time-consuming process that requires a lot of resources. By incorporating the tips above, you will have an onboarding plan that works perfectly for your company. This process helps to retain employees and ensure that they blend in and be productive in your organisation.