Onboarding for an employee involves a good deal of introductions to people whose names they’re going to forget, passwords they’ll probably need to reset, hallways where they forget which way to turn, and so much more. Starting a new job brings a lot of nerves and questions; to get acclimated to a new work environment, there are many different hoops to jump through. The purpose of onboarding is to get a new employee as comfortable in the new space and role as possible, and it includes a need for recognition on day 1.
Recognizing the Person Filling the Role, not the Role that Just Got a Person
There is no gray area between effective introductions and totally unhelpful ones. Throughout the process of onboarding, it is easy to fall into the flow of expectations and job descriptions. It is important to recognize that your new hire is a person. Make the introductions with the team something that will stick. Set up a team bonding within the first week, rather than just going around and saying names. If possible, be able to highlight skills found during the hiring process that can be mentioned in introductory conversations. Something like ‘you and John should talk about ________, he also does that with his free time!’
‘Logging In’ to the New Position
During the beginning stages of being acclimated to their new space, new hires are given many logins and instructions for different sites. The most effective way to get an employee into a platform is to make sure they have the necessary communication as early as possible. It is hard to feel proficient in a role when you always need to ask for access to different accounts, or for explanations of what each platform is for.
Encouraging customization on platforms and spaces is a powerful tactic to get employees to feel welcome. Suggest a fun background on the employee laptop, a profile picture on the accounts, and make sure the system settings are ideal. Set your employee up for success by giving them the tools to do so.
Who Rules the World? Your Team!
… but only when they have the best understanding of expectations in the workplace. Handing a new hire a packet of policies and procedures is jarring for them. Recognizing the whirlwind of emotions that come with trying to do everything right, while also emphasizing the spaces to go for clarity and support is incredibly important. When you discuss the rules and regulations, do it in a way that shows you know that they can take them and produce good work.
The New Kid on the Block
Being the new one on the team is never easy, so it is in the hands of those onboarding them to make them feel welcomed. Highlight the small wins in the beginning of the role to develop a strong relationship. Managers and HR teams must oversee getting the new hire steeped in company culture and encourage celebrations of such. Regular check-ins are required for the most success along with positive reinforcement and recognition.
Make your team feel like a team by onboarding them the right way.
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