To run a successful start-up you need the right employees for your team. Once you find talent, you can start the onboarding process. This is an important step that helps workers adjust to your company. Here are twelve tips for an effective process.
1. Start Early On
There are things you can do before the onboarding process even starts. Create an agenda for the workers first week, so everyone is on the same page. Also, talk to the other co-workers about the new hire’s responsibilities.
In addition, get the new employees’ workspace set up. Fill their desk with office supplies and key documents, like the employee handbook. Place a gift at their desk, such as a mug with the company’s logo, to show how much you value them.
Make sure you prepare the worker as well. Send them essential company information and their first-day agenda. Have it include the dress code and any company rules. Also, provide them a copy of their first week’s schedule, so they can plan ahead. Note where they should park and who they should speak to when they first arrive. Giving them this information will help put their mind at ease.
2. Allow Employees to Get Acclimated
During the first week of orientation, give workers time to adjust to the company. Instead of having them jump into projects immediately, give them a tour of the office. It’s important they’re familiar with the work processes as well. Be sure to cover how to use company software, any website passwords, and the communication protocols.
Plus, go over company culture and decision-making processes. Once new employees understand everyday operations, they will work more productively.
Onboarding is also the perfect chance for staff members to build relationships. Introduce the new hire to multiple team members. Have the whole team go out for lunch to help welcome the new worker. Having strong co-worker relationships can improve team morale.
Also, schedule a meeting between the employee and the direct supervisor. It gives both of them a chance to get to know each other. Within the meeting discuss the worker’s goals and preferred management style.
3. Be Open to Feedback
Receiving feedback from your employees can help you gain a new perspective. Remember they are looking at the company with a fresh set of eyes. Plus, it can help address any concerns before they turn into long-term issues. Be sure to encourage feedback from day one, so they feel more comfortable speaking with you in the future.
Make sure you show genuine interest in their suggestions. To help move the conversation forward, ask questions. In addition, pay attention to non-verbal cues, such as limited eye contact. When addressing employees’ negative feelings don’t get defensive. Use surveys, interviews, or a question box to get feedback.
4. Have Employees Job-Shadow
Job shadowing current staff allows the new hire to learn new skills. They also can see exactly how projects are completed and what mistakes to avoid. In addition, it gives them a chance to build relationships with other co-workers. They can even shadow someone with a different role to see how all the positions work together.
5. Put a Plan in Place
Having a standard structure for onboarding is critical. After your very first onboarding process, write down everything you did. Make sure to note what worked well and what didn’t. Update the document after each time. Having this internal document allows for a smoother transition with less stress. Store the information in a safe place, such as the office filing cabinet.
6. Have Realistic Expectations
When you hire new staff, you want to see immediate results. However, it’s also important you remain patient and give them time to adjust. Rushing through the training process can have long-term consequences. For example, the staff member may not feel comfortable in their new role. Take the time to properly train your staff and allow them to ask questions.
7. Keep Up With Communication
During the first few months, regularly follow up with new staff members. Take time to see how they’re adjusting and address any of their concerns. You can send them a checklist to ensure they are completing all their necessary tasks. Another idea is forwarding them a quiz on the company’s policies and procedures. Keep in mind face-to-face communication is the most effective, whenever possible.
8. Be Available
Be available to answer any questions your employees may have. Set aside a small portion of your day for answering staff inquiries. If a coworker needs a larger chunk of time, have them schedule a meeting and place it on the calendar. To ensure proper communication, let staff members know the best way to reach you. Are you more responsive to emails or texts?
9. Pair the New Hire With a Current Employee
When you pair a new hire with a current employee, they feel less isolated. They now have someone they can talk to and learn from. Plus, their partner can introduce them to other staff members. Having a support system increases office morale and promotes productivity. In addition, it gives workers an extra resource to help clarify project guidelines. Then you have more free time to focus on other management responsibilities.
10. Go Over the Benefits and Policies
When explaining the companies’ benefits, go over them in detail. Discuss what they are and how staff members can use them. For example, how much paid vacation time do they get off? When employees understand all their benefits they are more satisfied in their job. Have workers read the staff handbook as well. If they have any questions ensure they know who to contact. This helps prevent any future miscommunication.
11. Emphasize Your Company’s Culture
Make sure the new staff member is familiar with more than just their role. You want them to have a strong understanding of your business’s vision and values. Give them background on your company’s history and your plans for the future. If you have a mission statement, share that as well. Then ask employees how they feel they can contribute to these values. The more connected new hires are to the company the more loyal they will be.
12. Give Your Staff S.M.A.R.T Goals
These are goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound. When making them specific, consider who is involved and what resources are needed. Determine a deadline for completion as well. Setting goals for your new hires encourages them to take on more responsibilities. It can even motivate them to work harder and be more productive.
How to Have a Successful Onboarding Process
The onboarding process is one of the most important steps for new team members. It gives them a chance to get settled into their role. There are many steps you can take to make the process smoother, such as open communication. Review these steps before onboarding your next employee.
