The most important objectives of a sound onboarding program are:

 

      Helps the employee to identify with their new employer.

      Allows the employee to understand the company’s values and strategies.

      Builds an optimistic attitude.

      Avoids misunderstandings.

      Helps the employee feel valued.

      Encourages socialization.

      Reduces stress on the new hire.

      Sets performance expectations.

      Decreases the learning curve.

 

Of primary importance to Gen X and Gen Y employees is to feel they have made friends at work. Quickly introducing these employees to their co-workers can help build the relationships they need.

 

The onboarding program must address the following key points:

 

Company/Department Overview – Discuss the company’s mission statement, organizational charts and value statements. Introduce them to the objectives and goals of their position and department. This will help the new employee see how they fit into the bigger picture and recognize how their job contributes to the overall success of the company.

 

Job Expectations – Be specific about what is expected of the employee in their job. Go over the training programs offered, job description and the company’s appraisal process. This will give the employee a clear understanding of what it takes to be successful.

 

Policies and Procedures – Share with the employee the company’s written policies and procedures, including harassment, IT, affirmative action, compensation, etc. Some companies require the new employee to sign off stating they have read and understand all of these policies to avoid confusion later on.

 

Miscellaneous Items – Other items not to forget to cover include work hours, attire expectations, benefits and perks, bonuses, overtime or comp time policies, inclement weather and work from home practices. Be sure the employee shares all contact information, including names and numbers to call for emergencies. 

 

 

Try to think of the onboarding experience from the new hire’s perspective. Keep it fun, interesting, and most important – simple. One easy solution is to post everything on a company Intranet location that is accessible to a new hire from a link in a welcome email before their first day on the job.    This is a perfect way to streamline and track the process.

 

If you believe in the adage that happy employees are more productive employees, then it’s time for your company to get “onboard.”