Employee onboarding is the process of integrating a new person, from signing the contract through to working independently. It is underrated, even though the cost of early departure is high and most departures during the probationary period have their cause right here. Well-managed onboarding starts before the first day – with information on where and when to arrive, system access prepared in advance, and equipment that works from day one. It continues with a plan for the first weeks with clear milestones, an introduction to the people and processes, a designated colleague they can turn to with a silly question, and regular feedback. It is essential that the new person completes their first real task as soon as possible. At the end of the probationary period, hold the conversation both ways, not just an assessment handed down from above.
See also: Selection process, Employee turnover and exit costs, Exit interview.
