Onboarding process: the do’s and don’ts in remote work
Onboarding acts as a kick-off ceremony, welcoming the new employee to the organization, and forging new social connections. It is crucial that your onboarding is well-organized; otherwise, it may be harder for the newcomer. Show your professionalism. You are preparing the new hire for success.
Remember to prepare the team for the welcoming gathering. These coworkers need preparations too. After all, they will be sharing hours with the new talent. Promote bonding.
How to ace your onboarding process
- Provide a clear onboarding document that the new employee can run to check if any problems arise.
- Help the new employee get to know the rest of the team and feel at ease. When you are remote working, let the HR department plan a virtual lunch or coffee.
- Make yourself accessible to the new ones. They need more check-ins to stay on track during the first weeks after they grip the ropes.
- Ask for feedback during the onboarding process.
- Benefit from their fresh look at things. The first two weeks are great for this experience: they can give you a different perspective.
Of course, you can work the extra mile by giving them a welcome gift, such as a breakfast delivered at home or even a coffee mug can do wonders to set the mood!
What to avoid during the onboarding process
- Don’t overload the onboarding procedure. It’s a new environment, with new tools and new teammates.
- Don’t forget the tiny details. Set up a document with needed passwords, apps to download, requests for access, etc.
- Be easily accessible through Slack or any other tool, so they don’t have to wait until the next meeting to get their questions answered.
- Don’t smother the new one. Slowly lose the grip so they can find out for themselves, gain independence and learn to solve by making mistakes.
- Don’t assume the employee will know all the tools you are using. If possible, share the screen through your virtual call so they can see with their own eyes how to get something done.
- After their feedback, don’t forget to document changes for the onboarding process. It will be handy for the next person that will go through the same process.
These items only cover the basics. If you really want to stand out in your onboarding experience, don’t forget that details count. Set structured one-on-one meetings, send a care package, and make good use of the technology that makes everyone closer and will enhance the experience.
Awkbit is a 100% remote software factory with employees from around the globe. We develop web and mobile apps and provide staff augmentation. Give us a call and let us show you what we can do for you.