So, your perfect candidate has accepted a role in your company.
However, have you got the correct processes for onboarding remotely successfully?
With remote working becoming the norm for employers, having streamlined processes for onboarding new staff is essential. HR Manager, Bal Dhesi shares practical considerations for welcoming team members remotely.
Stay in contact with your new employee, particularly if they have a long notice period. Some employees may feel anxious starting a new role remotely, so provide reassurance and let them know your onboarding steps.
Share any important information in advance with your new employee. For example, what documentation they need to complete – copies of professional certificates, bank details, P45 etc.
Does your new employee have the necessary IT systems in place? Can you pre-test everything to identify glitches or problems?
Ensure all equipment and technology is ready for the employee before they join.
Prioritize training. Only train new staff on the skills that are essential for them to do their job.
Overwhelming new employees with too much information whilst working from home can lead to confusion, stress and frustration.
Do you have any virtual social events in the diary? Invite your new employee so they can get to know other team members.
Why not create a welcome video? Including a message from the CEO or other key leaders within the business can be a warm addition. You could also include a virtual tour of the office.
Finally, inform your other team members of their imminent arrival.
When the employee starts with your firm
Set clear expectations in the initial welcome meeting.
Define the company values, the team goals and objectives, together with any individual responsibilities.
Set up regular check-ins meetings. Starting in a new company can be isolating. So, schedule daily calls and add them to your team socials.
Revisit roles and responsibilities. You will have covered this during the recruitment process but expand on this; set objectives, discuss management styles and ways of working.
If possible, give a tour of the office. Even if they predominantly work remotely, they will need to know where office stationery is stored or how to book meeting rooms. Share your company organisation chart so that your new employee is aware of
Assign the new employee with a peer mentor. You don’t need a fancy programme, pair up your new starter with another team member with experience in a similar job role to offer support and guidance, particularly during their first 3 months at work.
If you have a question on the talent attraction and retention cycle or onboarding remotely, then please get in touch and speak with Bal today.