Onboarding a remote workforce
As most of us can remember all too clearly, it can be nerve-racking starting a new job. New employees will find themselves inundated with information, and it can take weeks to adapt and settle in. Imagine how much harder this all is, when you are starting a new job from a remote location. There are even more challenges that need to be identified.
What is onboarding?
Onboarding is the process to help ensure a smooth transition for new employees into the workforce. Remote and in-person onboarding share the same goals – to educate new employees on the business, their position and the key company policies.
The Covid pandemic meant that many businesses had to adapt overnight. Many have since come to realise the benefits of remote working, and in a lot of cases it is here to stay for the long-term. One challenge that comes from this is onboarding a remote workforce. A positive experience quickly and efficiently integrates new employees. However, if it doesn’t go to plan, a poor onboarding can lead to dissatisfied employees and a disconnect to the business.
Planning is key
It is important to try and provide a new workforce with as much information as possible before they begin.
- Ensure they have the right technology set-up: this will encourage everything else to run smoothly. This can alleviate stress from the first day of work, while helping them process new experiences.
- Create a remote checklist: include information about their role and anything else you require them to know.
- Develop a two-week plan: this is important, as inducting employees not in an office environment can take longer.
- Develop a guide: having a written handbook for new employees to refer to is helpful. Having all the information to hand – like colleagues’ numbers, company rules, policies and procedures – will help smooth the transition period.
Virtual orientation
Virtual orientation sessions to welcome your new team are also a good idea. Some ideas for this could include virtual coffee breaks, office games and photo sharing with teammates. It is important new employees feel integrated into the wider team as quickly as possible. It might even be a good idea to set up a ‘virtual buddy’ as a first point of call and to help them build connections.
