Building a successful onboarding program

Starting a new job can be an overwhelming experience for new hires. The first few days and weeks can shape the entire experience with a company, and this begins with the onboarding process.

Investing in a great onboarding program not only gives new employees the best first impression of a business but sets them up for success and means they are more likely to stick around.

Here are some tips we've identified for creating a successful onboarding program for new hires:

Define Your Goals

Before embarking on putting the time and effort required for an outstanding onboarding program, it's important to define your goals. Asking questions like ‘what do you want new hires to get out of the program?’ and ‘what values and culture do you want to instil?’ will help to keep the program focused, intentional, and easy for the end users to follow.

Make a Good First Impression

The onboarding process starts at the recruitment stage, it is very difficult to overcome a bad recruitment experience, so spend the time to make sure the stages in the recruitment process are seamless.

Once they have accepted the offer, an employee's first day is arguably the most important of the onboarding experience. Many of us know what it feels like to start a new job and have absolutely no idea where to start or who to speak to, so make your new starter feel welcome by spending the time to introduce them to their role and new company. Ideas for a great first day include the humble welcome email, having all tech ready to go, and setting up introductions with their team and managers.

Assign a Mentor or Buddy

Assigning a mentor or buddy to new hires can be a great way to help them acclimate to their new role and the company culture. The mentor or buddy can answer questions, provide guidance, and offer support as needed. This should be a person that is not a manager or has an impact on their day-to-day activities.

Check-In Regularly

Regular check-ins are critical to the success of any onboarding program. Weekly or bi-weekly meetings with the new person’s manager, as well as informal check-ins with their mentor or buddy will help new hires stay on track and address any issues or concerns early on.

Solicit Feedback

Soliciting feedback from new hires can help you identify areas for improvement and make adjustments to the program as needed. It's also a great way to show new hires that their input is valued and that the company is committed to their success.

Creating a successful onboarding program for new hires takes time and effort, but the benefits are well worth it. A great onboarding experience creates a ripple effect that can positively impact the employees' first weeks, months, and beyond.

Approach Consulting understands the importance of starting your employees off on the right track, starting with a stellar recruitment experience. Get in touch with us to see how we can help.