When people start a new job, they feel apprehensive and nervous, so it is crucial to have a proper onboarding process. According to research by Gallup, only 12% of employees believe their employers have a good onboarding process. A robust onboarding process allows recruits to settle comfortably into a new environment and role so they can be as productive as possible. These are some ways to enhance the employee experience during the onboarding process.
Prepare for the New Start
Onboarding doesn’t start on the first day; it begins before the new hire enters the building. Before the new employee starts their role, you should send them a welcome email that contains all the required paperwork. It is also vital to ensure that everything (including computer access) is set up for them sitting at their desk. It is disheartening for a new start to sit at their desk with nothing to do for an entire day; it can make them uncomfortable. They may even decide not to return if you haven’t adequately prepared for them. A warm welcome should await them.
Communicate Key Information
When a new employee starts their role, part of the onboarding process is to welcome them and make them feel comfortable. In addition to the desks and materials they require, you should introduce them to their team and any departments they will liaise with. It is vital that they also receive information on the company culture and their job responsibilities and expectations.
Assign a Mentor
Walking into a new environment can be daunting for even the most confident, so you should assign a mentor. Having someone to go for lunch with and ask questions can make the new start feel comfortable in their new environment. They are more likely to perform well if they have someone they can query things with.
Discuss Benefits
You also want the employee to feel excited at the prospect of working with you, and therefore, it is worth investing some time to discuss the benefits. Sharing your vision and how they fit into it gives them an overall view of their significance within the company.
Progress Timeline
One of the main reasons that employment doesn’t work out is because the employee does not know what you expect of them and fails to meet expectations. It is a good idea to set progress timelines. For example, you might expect the new hire to complete all relevant training courses within the first month. In the second month, you may have more specific goals related to your job performance. It is crucial to make these clear throughout the onboarding process.
At Morgan Spencer, we are here to help you fill even the most challenging roles. To find out more about our services, you can contact us and we will be happy to discuss the options with you.