Starting a new job is usually both exciting and overwhelming. New hires often face a flood of information and expectations that can be daunting. However, with the advancements in specialized onboarding software, this crucial phase has become more manageable for businesses and plays a pivotal role in retaining talented employees. Onboarding training is beyond a formal introduction; it involves familiarizing new recruits with the company's practices and culture.
Inducting suitable candidates is only the first step in a lengthy recruitment process. Hiring managers must ensure that the onboarding process is executed without a hitch, help new hires adapt quickly, and contribute as valuable team members.
This article covers details of onboarding training, including its purpose, benefits, and the best practices of effective onboarding. Read to discover more.
Onboarding is the strategic practice of integrating fresh hires into the company by introducing company code, culture, and their role within an organization. It not only refers to making them sign paperwork and showing them to their cubicle, but it also means acclimatizing them in a way that makes their transition to a new workplace easier.
Onboarding training aims to ensure these changes happen organically without burdening new and existing employees. Ideal onboarding also addresses finer aspects like legal matters and focuses on the new hire's social integration within the company.
The procedure starts with accepting the job offer, continues through the first week at work, and generally wraps up within the first three months. However, in some complex cases, onboarding may extend throughout the first year. Onboarding consists of six steps: preboarding, orientation, role-related training, transitioning phase, ongoing developments, and employee feedback.
In a related context, reboarding is somewhat like onboarding but focuses on reintegrating employees returning after a leave of absence. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, employee reboarding has become a far more common practice as many employees are rejoining the workforce after a significant period away. It keeps employees up to speed with company policies and updates, ensuring they are updated with organizational changes.
Onboarding Vs. Employee Training
You may be wondering if onboarding is the same as training. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they do serve separate yet overlapping purposes.
Onboarding is a broader term that includes familiarizing new hires with company culture, values, job roles, and expectations. It is a holistic process aimed at integrating employees into the organization. In contrast, employee training is a subset of onboarding, focused on developing the skills and knowledge necessary for employees to perform their job duties effectively.
A comprehensive, well-planned new employee onboarding training program, complemented by targeted benchmarks, is essential for empowering new hires to contribute meaningfully. Together, they ensure that employees are well-equipped to succeed in their roles and align with the company's goals and values.
Why is onboarding important? Onboarding programs perform the critical function of preparing new hires for long-term company success. As per a research study conducted on onboarding trends in 2023, such initiatives are essential in preparing new hires for long-term success within an organization. A structured onboarding process can boost employee retention by 82%.
The purpose of onboarding is to help recruits feel valued, engaged, and equipped to hit the ground running by providing a smooth transition into the company. Effective onboarding programs familiarize employees with policies, procedures, and job responsibilities while fostering a sense of belonging and cultural integration.
This is especially important given that 20% of employee turnover happens within the first 45 days (about 1 and a half months) of employment. When new hires are left to navigate the complexities of a new workplace independently, they are more likely to become frustrated and disengage.
On the other hand, a thoughtful onboarding experience that addresses both practical and social needs can increase productivity, job satisfaction, and commitment to the organization. It is important to carefully consider how to create an onboarding training plan and determine what an employee onboarding program should include.
It has been proven that organizations that invest in comprehensive onboarding see measurable benefits, including higher performance, shorter time-to-productivity, and more excellent long-term retention of top talent. Ultimately, onboarding sets the foundation for new employees to thrive and contribute to the company's success.
Most onboarding programs are limited to procedures like orientations and paperwork when they should be more than just an exchange of information. Instead, they should work on kindling a deeper relationship with the employee.
To build a new employee program, HR teams must consider these factors and design the employee training according to the organization's needs to ensure a smooth process for new recruits. Here is a breakdown of how the HR department can facilitate this transition:
Day One
On the first day, the new employees need to be welcomed warmly and oriented with their role in the company. The human resource personnel can introduce them to the team and give an overview of the company's goals and mission. The key to seamless integration within a new structure is to provide them with all the necessary tools. Make sure their designated seat has their nameplate along with the equipment. Additionally, scheduling a meeting with key stakeholders can help new employees understand the company culture and start building their professional network.
First Week
During the first week, the training should focus on conducting a comprehensive orientation to the company, its culture, and policies. It includes thorough training on any software, systems, or processes so the new team members can adapt to the work environment effectively.
The best onboarding programs reduce the mental stress employees face when navigating a new job role. A seasoned employee with strong interpersonal skills can act as a communication bridge, helping the new hire acclimate to the team. Regular check-ins and hands-on guidance should be provided to address any questions or concerns. Additionally, team-building activities can be designed to cultivate a sense of belonging.
First Month
As the new employees navigate their first month, they should be offered support and training as needed. It's important to ensure they fully understand their role, responsibilities, and performance goals. Regular one-on-one meetings with their manager can help monitor their progress.
Assigning a small project or task allows new hires to apply their learning and demonstrate their capabilities. It's also valuable to solicit feedback from new hires about their experience and adjust the onboarding process as necessary. Practices may vary, as each new hire may display their abilities differently.
Here are some of the best onboarding practices organizations implement to boost employee performance and improve workforce retention.
Effective onboarding is crucial for employee engagement, productivity, and retention. To ensure your onboarding program meets its objectives, it's essential to regularly evaluate and reflect on the process. By using onboarding templates and the right tools, you can optimize your onboarding program more effectively, ensuring new hires get the support they need to thrive in your organization.