Onboarding a new hire can be a daunting task. There are so many things to think about, from setting up their computer to getting them up to speed on company policies. It's easy to overlook essential details in the rush of it all. That's why we've put together this list of 10 tips for onboarding a new hire. Follow these tips, and you'll be sure to have a smooth and successful onboarding process!

1. Create a robust onboarding process.

It's the best way to ensure that your new employees are set up for success from day one. By taking the time to create a robust, repeatable onboarding system, you can help your employees hit the ground running and avoid the frustration of chasing people for answers. Your onboarding system should cover everything from the basics of company culture to the specifics of their job duties; this includes valuable resources easily found within the company system or cloud for people to access regardless of their location.

2. Start onboarding before they start

Make sure you have all the information you need to make their first days and weeks as smooth as possible. That means collecting everything from their preference for desk setup (standard or standing) and operating system to known allergies and favourite snacks. Even if your team is remote, knowing this info creates a sense of care, not to mention an excellent opportunity for sending gifts in the mail as rewards. So don't wait until they walk in the door on their first day - start onboarding now.

3. Get them set up

Set their place up, whether a physical desk or virtual space. Ensure they're registered with all the software and hardware tools they need to work well. Be mindful that they're likely nervous and worried about screwing up on the first day, so be friendly, personal, and positive. Consider assigning some more manageable tasks to begin with to boost confidence in their abilities. Helping them feel comfortable and set up for success on their first day will help them feel appreciated.

4. Define expectations

One of the most important things you can do when onboarding a new hire is to set clear expectations. For example, being clear about your company culture, job details, and expectations regarding performance. For example, do you have a remote team with a flexible work attitude? In addition, it can be helpful to provide new hires with a written description of the job and a list of specific objectives that need to be met. This should be a critical part of your onboarding resources.

5. Meet the team

One of the best ways to help a new hire feel comfortable and acclimated is to introduce them to the team. This can be done by taking them on a tour of the office or by hosting a virtual lunch where they can meet everyone in a relaxed setting. Either way, it's essential to take the time to onboard the new hire and help them feel like part of the team.

6. Schedule regular check-ins

Regular check-ins allow you to see how the new hire is settling in and to answer any questions they may have from following your useful guides. At first, you may want to check in daily or weekly before transitioning to bi-weekly or monthly check-ins. For hybrid and remote teams, it may be a good idea to ask your staff if there's a preference for meeting in person at the office or through a video call.

7. Demystify jargon

It can be hard to understand jargon if you're unfamiliar with the terms. That's why it's essential to take the time to explain acronyms and phrases that might not make sense right away. This will help your new hire feel more comfortable in their new role and ensure that they can communicate effectively with their coworkers. It's best to include translations within your onboarding resources and during physical catch-ups.

8. Prepare managers

It is crucial to let managers know that a new employee will be starting soon so they can plan accordingly. Helping potential mentors manage their workloads in advance will also make the onboarding process smoother for everyone involved, especially if the process involves video calls. Finally, encouraging managers to give feedback throughout the onboarding process can help new employees feel more comfortable and adjust to their new role quickly.

9. Assign a mentor

It can be easy for new employees to feel like they're slipping under the radar, but having a mentor can help them avoid that feeling. A mentor can provide guidance and support as onboarding unfolds, assisting the employees in feeling more confident and comfortable in their new roles though tools such as screensharing and remote desktop access. Additionally, a mentor can help remote employees connect with the rest of the team and build relationships that will make working together more enjoyable.

10. Help them envision their future at a company

Help employees envision their future at the company. During onboarding, take some time to sit down with each new hire and discuss their long-term goals. What do they hope to achieve in their career? How can your company help them get there? By taking the time to get to know each new hire, you'll make them feel welcome and demonstrate your commitment to their success.

Implementing a successful onboarding process is crucial to getting new hires up to speed and productive as quickly as possible. By following these ten simple steps, you can ensure that your new employees are set up for success from the get-go. Of course, there will always be some variation depending on the individual and the company culture, but these guidelines should give you a good starting point for creating an onboarding system that works for you. Need help getting new hires in the first place? Get in touch with us – our team of experts would be happy to assist you!