Onboarding is the process of introducing a new employee to a business, integrating the employee with the business and culture, and providing the tools and information required for them to be successful in their role, quickly and smoothly.

Onboarding new talent has certainly changed over 2020 and 2021, with the impact of COVID -19, particularly during extended lockdown periods. Whether businesses are onboarding temporary, contract or permanent staff in the office or virtually, it is essential the process is seamless in order to set new employees up for success. 

Joining a new organisation can be nerve wracking at the best of times, particularly for temporary and contract workers, who are often expected to hit the ground running. When onboarding is executed successfully, the result is committed, productive and engaged employees. Here are some ways to improve your onboarding process:

1. Prepare the team for their new colleague - send out a business email introducing the new team member, their name and position
2. Greet them on their first day and introduce them to the team
3. Show them their workstation, ensure they have system access, and their equipment is working
4. Organise a welcome coffee and run through policies, procedures, and guidelines
5. Ensure the orientation and training schedule is coordinated and explain the expectations
6. Check short term goals have been set
7. Organise one on one meetings

In the current market, it's a challenge to attract the best talent, but even more important to retain it. This is why your onboarding process needs to be completed correctly to set new employees up for long term success in your business.