5 Things you have to include in your onboarding process

The first day in your new job might be one of the most exciting parts of the business world. It’s like the first day of school, but with less homework –hopefully. Seriously though, the importance of a well-crafted onboarding process cannot be overstated. It sets the stage for a successful and harmonious working relationship between employees and organizations, helping prevent those awkward moments where new hires accidentally walk into the supply closet instead of the break room.

Picture this: A well-oiled machine where employees seamlessly integrate into the company culture, hit the ground running, and become productive parts of your organization in no time. That’s the power of a top-notch onboarding process! Not only does it provide new hires with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed, but it also helps your organization to retain top talent and foster a positive work environment. It’s a win-win situation that leaves everyone feeling warm and fuzzy inside.

Now that we’ve talked about the importance of a great onboarding process, let’s dive into the five things that should make the cut. Our five suggestions for your next onboarding process include different things from a welcome package, an employee onboarding software, and a buddy program, we’ve got it all covered. Let’s begin!

1- Welcome Package

We know this is not the most groundbreaking suggestion of all time, but clichés are cliché for a reason, right? A welcome package containing some free stuff with your company logo on it could never go wrong! We recommend preparing a welcome package with a personalized welcome message from the CEO or manager of the new hire, some merch products like pens and notebooks, and maybe a gift card or a small, personalized gift. Opening a package is always a joy, and the personalized notes and gifts will make your new employee feel like they are valued and welcomed in your organization. You can also use an employee kudos platform to send out the gift card without printing it.

2- Employee Onboarding Software

You might be thinking “What could possibly a software help with during onboarding?” especially if you’re not working remotely –but hear us out: implementing an employee onboarding software will make things ten times easier during onboarding. The best part of having software is that it streamlines the onboarding process and automates boring tasks such as paperwork, setting up work e-mail and accounts, and reading the company guidelines.

3- Training videos

Training is the most boring part of the onboarding process (maybe the second one after paperwork), but let’s face it –it’s also the most important one. Pre-made training videos and presentations about your organization, the job responsibilities and expectations of the role of your new hire, and workplace culture will go a long way during the onboarding process. For making it more fun, we recommend using a more interactive approach that will make the employee feel like they are already a part of the team. Quizzes and questions about the personality of the employee, and maybe a little game about the information they should know before getting started can solve the issue of dullness.

4- Buddy program

Truth is, in most organizations that implement the buddy program, the “buddies” forget about each other after a few days. But if it’s used consistently, having a buddy program is one of the best ways for making your new hire feel at home. Assign a more experienced, preferably a peer of your new employee, as the workplace buddy. The responsibility of the buddy is to show your company culture to the new employee and save them from the anxiety of meeting new people without feeling overwhelmed.

5- A welcome meeting or lunch

After all of the boring stuff with onboarding tasks, security agreements, training, and paperwork, it’s a good idea to introduce the new hire to the rest of the team. Organizing a welcome meeting where everyone can learn more about their newest member, or taking them to lunch where they can socialize outside of work without worrying about that e-mail they must send is a great way to make the transition smoother. Feeling like you’re a part of the team might be the best feeling one can experience on their first day.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a well-designed onboarding process is like the secret ingredient that adds flavor to the employee experience. It’s not just about paperwork and policies; it’s about creating an environment where new hires feel welcomed, supported, and motivated to contribute their best.

The onboarding process is your best opportunity to set the stage for success. Whether you’re an HR professional, a team leader, or an enthusiastic new hire awaiting their onboarding adventure, take these five suggestions of ours to heart.

Now, it’s time to go forth and create an onboarding process that will leave a lasting impression—one that makes your employees excited to jump out of bed each morning. Kudos!