Keep Your New Hires: 7 Best Onboarding Practices

Anyone who has had a job has experienced some kind of onboarding process when they started. From food service to retail to manufacturing to customer service and beyond, there are onboarding processes in place for new hires so they can get better acclimated to their new job and the environment. The onboarding process is the new hire’s first real look at what it’s like to work for your company so it’s important to follow a process that represents you the best. Here are seven best onboarding practices to follow to keep your new hires.

Start With a Warm Welcome

A friendly welcome email is a great way to get the onboarding process started. Reminding your new hire that you’re happy to have them joining the team and that they can come to you with any questions during the onboarding process is sure to make them feel welcome and comfortable. A welcome email is also the perfect way to outline the next steps so they know what to expect when it comes to training and getting started. 

Get Paperwork Out of the Way

If possible, have your new hire complete any paperwork or online training modules prior to their first day so they won’t have to spend their first day on the job filling out forms. Plus this advance step reduces delays between getting hired and starting the job. 

Virtual Introductions

Many companies are following a hybrid or remote workplace model, meaning a lot of or all communication is virtual whether it’s via Microsoft Teams, Slack or Zoom. Setting up one-on-one video conferences between the new hire and current employees as well as adding the new hire to employee group chats is a great way to softly introduce them to the group.

Be Prepared

Making sure you’re prepared for the arrival of your new employee is also important to making their transition go smoothly. Do some housekeeping ahead of time: Make sure there is a workspace like a desk or office available for your new hire and that they will have access to the software or tools they’ll need. A little upfront work will make both of your lives easier.

Assign Them a Mentor or Buddy

Giving your new employee a designated mentor or buddy will definitely help them acclimate to their new job and the environment. A buddy is great for answering questions your new employee might have but doesn’t want to bother asking management about.

Celebrate Early Achievements and Milestones

Recognizing your new employees’ early achievements assures them you care that they succeed in their new position and that you notice the good work they are doing. Acknowledgement can be something as simple as complimenting their attitude, work ethic or persistence in learning new skills. Continually showing up for your employees, especially in their first year, will ensure they continue to show up for you.

Schedule Check-Ins

Schedule check-ins with your new hire so they know to make note of any questions or concerns they may want to share with you after the first week or so of work.

Let People First Staffing Help You Get New Hires

The best onboarding practices are those that are intentional. As a locally owned staffing company, we make it our mission to help employers find employees who will last. Looking to partner with a staffing agency in Cincinnati or Dayton? Contact us today to discuss your staffing goals.