Orientation for new hires is fairly common but now, some companies are looking to start onboarding programs. Though similar, onboarding and orientation are two different processes that have different goals. The purpose of orientation is to introduce a new recruit to a company’s office and employees. Generally, new hires are given a brief overview of policies and procedures and complete housekeeping items, such as assigning login credentials, issuing employee ID numbers and completing new hire paperwork.
New employee onboarding typically includes an orientation, but also integrates the employee into the organization in a more holistic way. It’s an extended process that can take your new hire’s experience to the next level. Since only 12% of employees strongly agree that their company does a great job onboarding new employees, adding additional support can greatly improve new employees’ early experiences with your organization.
Help employees acclimate to the job
The transition to a new company or job position can be difficult, so providing an extended timeframe for adjustment is helpful. Learning the company’s core values, vision and mission is more meaningful when employees can see those values in action over a period of weeks or months. Onboarding also allows the employee to adapt to the company’s norms more easily because they have more time to get used to how things are done.
Jump-start your next onboarding class with new hire gifts, like a polo shirt, fleece jacket or sportpack emblazoned with your company logo, to help your new recruits feel like a part of the team right away.
Designate time specifically for learning
A gradual increase in responsibility for new employees can help limit feelings of being “thrown in the deep end” without a support system in place. Consider assigning a buddy or mentor to guide new hires through their first weeks or months of employment. Buddies are typically more experienced employees but shouldn’t be the new hire’s direct supervisor. This helps eliminate stress new staff may feel about being vulnerable and asking questions.
Provide some items to make note-taking easier, like a spiral notebook, two-pocket presentation folder or binder.
Improve employee retention rates and company culture
Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for employees to find the transition to a new job overwhelming or stressful. Half of salaried employees leave their positions within the first year and a half, costing companies valuable time and resources. A robust new employee onboarding process may counteract some of that turnover by helping new hires to feel more engaged and supported as they take on more responsibilities.
Retaining talented and experienced workers beyond the onboarding period can improve organizational morale and culture too. Keeping new hires engaged builds camaraderie and confidence among the staff that they’ll be together for the long haul.
Strengthen your organization’s staff with new employee onboarding
While orientation is a crucial step in welcoming a new hire, the benefits of upgrading to a new employee onboarding approach can be significant. Employees will feel more comfortable with the business, have more support and be more likely to stay with your company for the long haul.