8 Tips for Effective Onboarding from ADP
“Share relevant information gradually.” Focus on the important items; don’t make it like “drinking from a firehose.”
“Engage new hires before their start date.” Stay in touch periodically between hire and start date.
“Provide a thoughtful first-day experience.” Have their work area and equipment already set up, and make sure they have a point of contact in their worksite (especially if the manager is remote).
“Assign a buddy.” Team them up with a company-experienced co-worker to whom they can talk and ask questions they might be embarrassed to ask of their manager.
“Maintain connection beyond the first month.” For the new employee’s entire first year, have their manager (or buddy) check in with them regularly as they become more acquainted with different aspects of their job and the company’s operations.
“Incorporate personalization thoughtfully.” Bear in mind that the entire job likely cannot be totally customized to the new employee because others are involved. Look for areas where personalization would be both useful and functional.
“Monitor and address early signs of disengagement.” Particularly during the first few weeks, watch for signs of discomfort, confusion, withdrawal, etc., and give the new person the opportunity to ask questions, make observations, or even just “vent” any frustrations they might have.
“Create a positive first impression.” This is the logical result of incorporating and maintaining the above items, producing better engagement, communication and contribution.