Onboarding is the process of integrating new employees into a work team. This can be done through training, orientation, or an individualized onboarding plan for each employee. For better or worse, many companies rely on this process to rapidly convert new hires into productivity and retention goals. The difficulty lies in not only making the first impression a good one but also in keeping your organization's culture relevant to all employees while at the same time eliminating the chance of staff turnover.
To do this, you must be able to balance the needs and interests of the employee with those of your company. To do that well requires a great deal of forethought and planning.
The first step to a prosperous onboarding process is to understand the needs of both your new hires and the needs of your organization.
Employee Needs
The onboarding process is all about your new hires. No matter how well you plan or how well the plan is executed, it is the individual who will be walking into a new landscape. You need to be sure you hire the right people in order to get the greatest results.
They Need To Know
Hiring a person is not complete until they are as comfortable and knowledgeable as possible. New employees need to know that they are welcome in your organization and that your company values them. They also need to know that they can make an impact at work, which means there should be an objective for them at every step of the process. The onboarding process must thus start with a clear understanding of your new hire's background and goals for the company. This is your starting point for making each person feel a part of the team.
You Need To Expand Their Horizons
Our educational system teaches us to view the world from our own perspectives and offers little room for letting others expand those perspectives. New hires, however, need to be made aware that they can learn new things at work by talking to their coworkers or asking questions of their manager. You also need to make sure that each new hire has a safe place where they can share their feelings and ideas with someone who will listen without judgment or criticism. This is the time to get rid of the idea that they are "not good enough" or that they lack something that would make them work better.
They Need To Be Involved
It is important for your new hires to feel like they are contributing in some way, even when it may be difficult. Your new team members can and should take part in all aspects of the onboarding process, ranging from introductory training sessions to more general office help. Taking part in this process lets your new employees know that their ideas and work count as much as anyone else's.
You Need To Let Them Grow Into Their Spot
Your new hires need time to learn their way around the office and settle into their routine. They need some time to feel comfortable in a space and develop a sense of belonging. They also need to know that they can always bring a problem or question to you without any hesitation. Once the new team members are on their feet, you will start seeing changes in their work and interactions with others. At this point, they need your continued support against any obstacles they may face along the way. Your new hire needs you and your company as much as your company needs them.
Company Needs
A company's onboarding process is different from an individual's because it has so many moving parts: the employee, their manager, coworkers, upper management, leadership council, or whatever group makes decisions for the business.
A new employee is not a blank slate. Every single person in the office must be aware of and address any differences they may have with their new colleague. This way, the company is able to grow as a whole and avoid problems that might otherwise destroy productivity.
Final Thoughts
Although the key to a good onboarding process is basic common sense, it is also vital to remember that every organization and team will have its own needs and challenges. The implementation of an onboarding process for your employees must consider the interests of everyone involved in order to maximize productivity.
However, an employee who does not feel comfortable or supported will quickly look for a new opportunity. By giving your new hires all of the tools they need to feel welcome and appreciated, you can create an atmosphere where everyone is working together toward the same goals. Reach out to Network ESC professionals today to learn how we can best help you!
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