The hiring process is not the end of building a valuable relationship with employees in an organization. Rather, it is recognized as the starting point. Employee onboarding is just as important as the recruitment process and can either make or break a long term relationship with a new employee.
This is equivocally true, especially since about 69% of employees are willing to commit long-term to an organization with an excellent onboarding process. It means you could lose a handful of valuable employees if your onboarding experience is less than effective.
In this article, we look at what a unique onboarding process looks like and explore some strategies for effective employee onboarding.
What is employee onboarding?
Employee onboarding is the process of integrating new employees into an organization and making them feel welcome and productive in their new roles. It is a crucial part of the employee lifecycle, as it sets the tone for orientation programs and the employee’s experience and can impact their long-term engagement and retention.
How do you create a positive onboarding experience?
Creating an effective onboarding process could take some level of planning and creativity. However, there are some common steps that different organizations can use to achieve theirs. These include:
1. Create a Structured Onboarding Plan
An effective onboarding plan should be structured and comprehensive, covering all aspects of the employee’s integration into the organization, from the orientation programs to the performance expectations. It should include a clear timeline, specific goals, and measurable objectives. A structured onboarding plan ensures that new employees receive consistent and relevant information, are introduced to key team members and departments, and have the necessary resources and tools to perform their job effectively.
2. Start Onboarding Before the Employee’s Start Date
Onboarding shouldn’t start on the employee’s first day. It is essential to start onboarding before the employee’s start date to set expectations, establish a rapport, and ensure that they are well-prepared for their first day. Providing pre-boarding and new hire training information, such as company culture, benefits, and policies, can help the new employee feel more comfortable and confident in their new role.
3. Assign a Buddy or Mentor
Assigning a buddy or mentor to new employees can help them navigate the organization, build relationships, and understand the company’s culture. A buddy or mentor can answer questions, provide guidance, and offer support during the orientation programs. This helps new employees feel more connected to the organization and helps build a sense of belonging.
4. Focus on Culture and Values
An effective onboarding program should include a focus on the company’s culture and values. This can be done through orientation sessions, team-building activities, and discussions with leadership. This helps new employees understand the company’s mission, values, and performance expectations and ensures that they align with the organization’s culture.
5. Provide Ongoing Training and Development
Effective new-hire training shouldn’t end after the first week or month. Providing ongoing training and development opportunities ensures that employees have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their job effectively and grow within the organization. This can include job-specific training, soft skills development, and leadership development.
6. Gather Feedback
Gathering feedback from new employees about their onboarding experience is essential for continuous improvement. This can be done through surveys, focus groups, or one-on-one meetings. Feedback can help identify areas for improvement and ensure that the orientation programs meet the needs of new employees.
7. Leverage Technology
Leveraging technology can streamline the onboarding process and make it more efficient and effective. This can include using digital forms and documents, e-learning modules, and virtual reality simulations. Technology can also help new employees connect with colleagues and access information and resources easily.
8. Communicate Clearly and Consistently
Clear and consistent communication is essential for effective onboarding. It is essential to communicate expectations, goals, and objectives clearly and ensure that new employees understand what is expected of them. Communication should be consistent, timely, and delivered through multiple channels to ensure that new employees receive the necessary information and support.
9. Celebrate Milestones and Achievements
Doing this during the onboarding process can help new employees feel recognized and valued. This can include celebrating their first day, completing new hire training modules, and achieving their first goals. Celebrating these milestones can help build a sense of accomplishment and motivation.
Conclusion
Effective employee onboarding is crucial for the success of new employees and the organization. A structured onboarding plan, assigning a buddy or mentor, and the other steps listed above are all essential strategies for effective staff onboarding.