The onboarding process has a big impact on the success of the new hire joining the organization. Onboarding is a critical juncture for both the new hire and the organization. The initial few days most importantly the first day and week are decisive for the new hire in particular and should be utilized to ease the employee into the new organizational setup and culture. Ensuring your employee has a good initial impression and the first day will help him feel comfortable and welcome at your organization. The organization should go out of the way to make the new hire feel special and happy to be part of your organizational setup.
An effective onboarding process, prepares the new hire for the first day and this process of onboarding starts from the moment the candidate accepts the offer. The organization needs to seize the initiative by setting out processes that will make this transition smooth for the new hire like sending an introductory mail as well as setting up his workspace with all the needed tools and equipment. Time early with a buddy or mentor can also be very effective.
On the new hire’s first day, the HR department/technical team involved in their interview process should be there to welcome him/her. This will help to ease the nerves. Its also important to introduce new hires to colleagues, management, and team members. Also, a critical part of the onboarding process is making the new hire aware of the organization’s culture and values.
We list out top 10 things to look into on the first day of work.
- A welcome letter / email to greet your new hire. Keep the letter personalized, welcoming and engaging.
- Outline the company goals, its mission and ethos.
- Connect the employee to the manager and HR personnel.
- Reiterate benefits and package, and explain roles and responsibilities providing a more detail job description.
- Provide access for the new hire to the employee portal and walk him/her through the processes needed to complete and submit paperwork and compliance related forms.
- Provide details including the “when, where and how” of reporting to work. This could include even the office dress code, parking instructions, other unofficial norms at works. Also provide a guided tour of the office space.
- Prepare the new hire’s work station with all the tools in place, ready and available.
- Assign a buddy at work for the new hire, and brief that employee of his role.
- Inform team members and other stakeholder’s of new hire joining details, and get them onboard in making the new employee feel welcome.
- Describe the first day/ week itinerary. Briefly mention the duties and responsibilities of the new job along with the expectations and key performance indicators.
