When I’m working with growing businesses, my clients talk a lot about the importance of recruiting and finding the right candidate but not always enough about what they are going to do once they’ve got them. It can take months of advertising, shortlisting, interviewing, and assessing to even get to the offer stage so if we are investing all this in finding someone, surely, we want to keep them!
Onboarding is the process of bringing your new hires into your business and helping them to understand your business, their work environment, the culture and to make them feel welcomed into the team. Studies show that successful onboarding of employees can result in increased retention rates of new hires by up to a whopping 80% and for those that do stay, they are likely to be at least 50% more engaged in their role and your business. Getting new employees up and running quickly and settling them in to their role can only help your business…..so why wouldn’t you take advantage of this massive early opportunity?
First Impressions Stick
Imagine walking into a party where nobody knows your name. You’d probably feel a little lost and out of place, right? Well, the same applies to a new employee’s first day on the job. Onboarding is your company’s first chance to make a lasting impression. A well-structured onboarding process that starts well before day 1 helps your new team members feel valued and welcome from the get-go, setting a positive tone for their entire journey with your company.
Productivity Boost, Anyone?
You know that feeling when you’re lost in a new city without a map? Yep, that’s how employees can feel without proper onboarding. By providing clear guidance, training, and resources right from the start, you’re giving your team the tools they need to hit the ground running. A comprehensive onboarding process ensures that your employees understand their roles, responsibilities, and the company’s mission. And guess what? When people know what they’re doing, they’re more likely to be productive and engaged.
Culture Club
Your company’s culture is like its DNA – unique and defining. Onboarding is the time to showcase your company’s values, traditions, and quirks. It’s an opportunity to introduce new hires to your team’s way of doing things, helping them align their personal values with the company’s. When employees feel like they’re a part of something bigger than just a 9-to-5 gig, they’re more likely to stick around and contribute positively.
Happy Employee, Happy Life
Let’s face it – nobody likes feeling lost, confused, or overwhelmed. A well-executed onboarding process reduces those early-days jitters and contributes to overall job satisfaction. When employees feel supported and well-informed, they’re more likely to enjoy their work and form a stronger bond with their colleagues. Happy employees are also more likely to stay loyal to your company, reducing turnover and the headache of frequent hiring.
Building Bridges, Not Walls
Onboarding isn’t just about showing someone where the coffee machine is – it’s about building connections. By fostering a sense of community and belonging early on, you’re helping new hires integrate seamlessly into your team. Encourage open communication, pair them up with mentors, and provide opportunities for social interaction. The relationships formed during onboarding can turn into lifelong professional connections and even friendships.
Long-Term Growth
Think of onboarding as an investment in your company’s future. When you dedicate time and effort to properly onboard your employees, you’re not only ensuring their success but also the company’s growth. By providing continuous support, training, and development opportunities, you’re helping your team members evolve into leaders who can drive innovation and take your company to new heights.
So, there you have it – that’s why onboarding is as essential as that first sip of morning coffee. It’s not just a checklist to tick off; it’s a chance to create a lasting impression, boost productivity, nurture your company’s culture, and set the stage for long-term success. So, go ahead, roll out the red carpet for your new team members and watch as they go from strength to strength!