The onboarding process begins once the candidate has accepted the job offer and can extend up to 30, 60, or even 90 days after their first day. It is crucial to focus on the time before their first day to ensure that new hires are set up for success and retained for longer periods.
To achieve this, companies can use a new hire checklist that includes the following steps:
- Send branded welcome messages or videos that accurately showcase the company's culture and values, including a personal video message from their manager.
- Complete employee paperwork through automated online forms, such as I-9 and W-4.
- Provide information about the start date, time, place, parking instructions, dress code, and who to ask for upon arrival. along with making copies of keys or program their key card, and have their badge ready at reception.
- Put together a welcome packet with the job description, team member bios, building map, organization chart, etc.
- Provide the employee handbook.
- Ensure the computer and workstation are ready, including necessary office supplies, and check in with remote employees to ensure that they have everything they need to include the employee's email and any essential usernames or logins.
- Send a welcome/introduction email to the team, copying the new hire, and sharing their accomplishments and experience from previous jobs.
- Explain expectations for the employee's role and on their team.
- Select a mentor for the new hire, an experienced person who knows the ins and outs of the company. For groups of new hires, introduce them via email.
- Invite new hires to ongoing meetings, set up introductions with co-workers and key stakeholders during their first few weeks, and arrange a team lunch for their first week. For remote employees, consider providing a gift card for a local restaurant or delivery service.
- Create a 30-60-90-day plan with goals and first projects to focus on.
- Provide online resources for reading, bookmarking, and referencing.
- Schedule training sessions and provide information on where to attend.
In conclusion, by following these steps, companies can ensure that new hires have a smooth transition into their roles, are better equipped to succeed, and are more likely to stay with the company for longer periods. To build your custom onboarding process keep a few things in mind. Keep it seamless and engaging. Make sure all team members and leadership are available for intros and mentoring. In all keep this formula as a guideline when creating a onboarding strategy.
- Impression
- Introduction
- Integration
- Immersion
- Independence
