Some Surprising Onboarding Stats All Employers Should Hear

Onboarding is something of an art, and always has been. From the more brash approach back in the day (affectionately referred to as “sink or swim”, in today’s world), to all the bells and whistles some of the world’s tech giants put into their onboarding these days, it’s a varied game. But an important one.

With that in mind, a study carried out down in the USA revealed some surprising onboarding stats which, despite knowing just how important a solid onboarding process is, still managed to catch us off guard. If you’re an employer or hiring manager in North America, it’s worth having a read of the below.

31% of people have left a job within the first six months

Even more shocking was that of those people, a huge 68% said that it was in fact within the first three months. All this reiterates is that we as employers have even less time than you’d expect to make an impression – and a good one, at that. Almost a third of people have been unconvinced in a new job enough at some point to walk away without turning back. This means that the impact you make early on can make all the difference. If the initial experience is a negative one, it may be difficult to turn around.

26% left because the job differed from what was discussed at interview

We can’t say it enough: transparency about the job you’re trying to fill couldn’t be more important. Let’s be frank – if the job isn’t exactly what you’re advertising, it’s all going to come out in the wash. Be up front and honest throughout the interview process. Provide all the information your candidate needs to make a truly informed decision. And, when they do start, follow through on any promises made and expectations set. If something has changed from the time of hire to their start date, be upfront about it immediately and let them gauge the situation – but don’t blindside someone with a totally inaccurate, unrealistic job description and the promise of something which doesn’t exist.

76% wanted on-the-job training

Training is largely touted as the key to a solid, successful onboarding process. But there are many different ways to learn. At a massive 76%, on-the-job – by which we mean learning by doing, for the most part – seems the ever-popular, fairly universal way to deliver learning opportunities to your new hires. Learning by doing can increase the likelihood that new information will be retained. It also helps new hires feel like they’re already contributing, and can give a real sense of pretty instant achievement.

17% said “a friendly smile or helpful coworker would have made all the difference”

Perhaps the most surprising stat is this one. Of those interviewed who had left a new job shortly after their first day, it would seem that the welcoming touch was missing – and could have resulted in an entirely different outcome. It just goes to show how important it is for new hires to feel a connection with their new team.

Onboarding stats which help with tough onboarding decisions

While it may be our job to help businesses find new star employees, it’s in our nature to try and help where we know best. That means advising our clients and staying in touch long after the initial hire is made. We’re here to answer any questions, offer any guidance we can, and help resolve those initial teething pains that can sometimes come with making a new hire.

To partner with Next Level Group for your staffing and recruiting needs, get in touch today.

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*Stats from BambooHR .