Introducing new hires to your company in the middle of a pandemic isn’t easy. However, you can’t overlook this essential step. Here’s why employee onboarding is more important than ever.
Why Onboarding Is Important During a Pandemic
- Onboarding Impacts Long-Term Performance
Think of employee onboarding as a first impression. If your new hire has a positive introduction, they’ll form an immediate connection with your company. But if their experience is negative, they’ll start to think about looking elsewhere. In fact, research shows great onboarding correlates with both increased productivity and lower turnover rates. - Remote Hires Need to Feel Like Part of the Team
During the COVID-19 crisis, you may have employees who apply, interview, and began working for your organization without setting foot in your physical location. Of course, this can cause new hires to feel isolated. A strong onboarding process (even a virtual one) will help to bridge the gap.
Top Tips for Employee Onboarding
- Put Paperwork Online
If you haven’t already, now is the perfect opportunity to move your employee paperwork online. Not only will this prevent unnecessary trips into your buildings but also, you’ll be able to streamline the process. In most cases, it’s easier to track and complete electronic documents. - Arrange a Team Meeting
Your new employee will want to meet their coworkers. This especially is important for people who were hired or are working remotely. Take the time to set up a group introduction, either virtually or in-person. A quick meet-and-greet doesn’t have to take long, and it will allow your newest team member to feel more connected. - Make Training Interactive
Rather than sending piles of documents and hours of videos, try to make onboarding more engaging. If in-person gatherings aren’t possible, consider interactive training sessions, live virtual meetings, or one-on-one chats. These types of activities give new hires a chance to get involved, ask questions, and share their thoughts. - Assign New Hires a Buddy or Mentor
This is a best practice in normal times, but in a remote setting, it’s vital. If an on-site employee has a question, they’ll probably wander around and find someone to ask. Unfortunately, this isn’t as straightforward in a virtual setting. Therefore, make sure your new team members have the phone number or an e-mail address of a trusted point person. - Partner with a Staffing Agency
Although many companies are struggling to stay in business during the pandemic, others have needed to add employees to keep up with consumer demand. If your organization falls into the second category, you may be having trouble staying on top of recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and training. Luckily, a staffing agency can find the people you need, handle the necessary paperwork AND assist with onboarding and training. So, you’ll be bringing in workers who are ready to hit the ground running on their first day.
Is Your Company Struggling with Employee Onboarding?
BOS Staffing can help you recruit, hire, and onboarding the employees you need. We place skilled manufacturers, medical workers, IT professionals, and office staff throughout the greater Atlanta area. Request your next great (and already onboarded) employee today!
