Starting a new role is an exciting yet challenging transition. A comprehensive onboarding process can make all the difference, setting the stage for success and long-term satisfaction. As a leader, and coach, I’ve been involved in supporting the onboarding process for many decades. The difference between a great onboarding process, and one that misses the mark, can cost anywhere from an estimated 30-40% of an employee’s annual salary, upward to 150% in the case of an executive.
Is it time to consider what you are dong in your onboarding process? It’s
Here are five essential elements to consider for an effective onboarding experience.
1. Structured Orientation
A structured orientation is the cornerstone of successful onboarding. It should cover the company’s history, mission, vision, and values, providing new hires with a clear understanding of the organizational culture. This orientation should also include an overview of the company's products, services, and key clients. Providing a well-organized schedule with dedicated time for learning about each department can help new employees understand how their role fits into the larger picture.
2. Clear Role Expectations
Clarity in role expectations is crucial. New hires need a detailed job description, including specific responsibilities and performance metrics. Early discussions with managers about short-term and long-term goals can align expectations and provide a roadmap for success. Regular check-ins during the first few months can address any uncertainties and help new employees adjust to their roles more effectively.
Lack of clarity around role is a major source of conflict. What needs to be clarified? Is it time to bring this to the entire team as well?
3. Access to Resources and Tools
Ensuring new employees have access to the necessary resources and tools is vital for their productivity. This includes setting up their workspace, providing necessary software, and granting access to relevant databases and networks. Additionally, offering training on these tools can prevent frustration and downtime, enabling new hires to contribute meaningfully from the outset.
4. Social Integration
Building relationships within the team and the broader organization fosters a sense of belonging and support. Facilitating introductions, organizing team lunches, or assigning a mentor or buddy can help new employees feel welcomed and valued. Encouraging participation in social events or team-building activities can further enhance their integration and engagement.
Will the new employee have a team member who can be their “onboarding buddy” or will they have access to a mentor who can help them navigate the unseen elements of the organization. My business partner and I are celebrating 10 years of program deliveries under the Mentor Roadmap™ banner – check it out and set up a call to learn more (https://calendly.com/jennbritton/15-minute-exploration-call(
5.Continuous Feedback and Support
Providing continuous feedback and support is essential for ongoing development and satisfaction. Regular performance reviews, constructive feedback, and open lines of communication can help new hires navigate challenges and celebrate achievements. Offering opportunities for professional development, such as training programs or workshops, can also contribute to their growth and retention.
As a leader how often are you holding coaching conversations with your team members?
Effective onboarding is an investment in your organization's future success. By focusing on these five elements—structured orientation, clear role expectations, access to resources, social integration, and continuous feedback—you can ensure that new employees feel supported, motivated, and prepared to thrive in their new roles.
I’m so committed to supporting others in the onboarding process that I have dedicated one of my books to better onboarding in the evolving workspace – check out the 90-Day Guide for Success on Amazon, or the new 90-Day Guide for Success card deck (Days 1-30) on Deckible. You can learn more about it, and order it here. Interested in ordering a bulk set of the 1st deck for your organization? Contact me to discuss.
Is it time to consider what you are dong in your onboarding process? It’s
Here are five essential elements to consider for an effective onboarding experience.
1. Structured Orientation
A structured orientation is the cornerstone of successful onboarding. It should cover the company’s history, mission, vision, and values, providing new hires with a clear understanding of the organizational culture. This orientation should also include an overview of the company's products, services, and key clients. Providing a well-organized schedule with dedicated time for learning about each department can help new employees understand how their role fits into the larger picture.
2. Clear Role Expectations
Clarity in role expectations is crucial. New hires need a detailed job description, including specific responsibilities and performance metrics. Early discussions with managers about short-term and long-term goals can align expectations and provide a roadmap for success. Regular check-ins during the first few months can address any uncertainties and help new employees adjust to their roles more effectively.
Lack of clarity around role is a major source of conflict. What needs to be clarified? Is it time to bring this to the entire team as well?
3. Access to Resources and Tools
Ensuring new employees have access to the necessary resources and tools is vital for their productivity. This includes setting up their workspace, providing necessary software, and granting access to relevant databases and networks. Additionally, offering training on these tools can prevent frustration and downtime, enabling new hires to contribute meaningfully from the outset.
4. Social Integration
Building relationships within the team and the broader organization fosters a sense of belonging and support. Facilitating introductions, organizing team lunches, or assigning a mentor or buddy can help new employees feel welcomed and valued. Encouraging participation in social events or team-building activities can further enhance their integration and engagement.
Will the new employee have a team member who can be their “onboarding buddy” or will they have access to a mentor who can help them navigate the unseen elements of the organization. My business partner and I are celebrating 10 years of program deliveries under the Mentor Roadmap™ banner – check it out and set up a call to learn more (https://calendly.com/jennbritton/15-minute-exploration-call(
5.Continuous Feedback and Support
Providing continuous feedback and support is essential for ongoing development and satisfaction. Regular performance reviews, constructive feedback, and open lines of communication can help new hires navigate challenges and celebrate achievements. Offering opportunities for professional development, such as training programs or workshops, can also contribute to their growth and retention.
As a leader how often are you holding coaching conversations with your team members?
Effective onboarding is an investment in your organization's future success. By focusing on these five elements—structured orientation, clear role expectations, access to resources, social integration, and continuous feedback—you can ensure that new employees feel supported, motivated, and prepared to thrive in their new roles.
I’m so committed to supporting others in the onboarding process that I have dedicated one of my books to better onboarding in the evolving workspace – check out the 90-Day Guide for Success on Amazon, or the new 90-Day Guide for Success card deck (Days 1-30) on Deckible. You can learn more about it, and order it here. Interested in ordering a bulk set of the 1st deck for your organization? Contact me to discuss.
Jennifer Britton, MES, ACTC – PCC, CHRL, CPT
CEO, Head Coach and Author
Potentials Realized | Group Coaching Essentials
Leadership | Teamwork | Coaching
Contact: 1-416-996-8326
Email: [email protected]
Instagram:@ReconnectingWorkspaces @CoachingBusinessBuilder
Looking for bite-sized boosts to your work as a coach, leader or during your onboarding process? Check out our Card Decks. Now available on Deckible:
90-Day Guide for Success – Deck 1 – Days 1 – 30 (for new leaders, onboarding or those wanting a sprint) – https://bit.ly/90dayguidedeck1
ACTIVATE Your Group and Team Coaching Superpowers (for coaches) – https://bit.ly/activatedeck
Pick up a copy of Reconnecting Workspaces: Pathways to Thrive in the Virtual, Remote and Hybrid World at Amazon – https://bit.ly/reconnectingworkspaces.
Check out my latest TEDx talk – Coaching Teams Through Chaos at https://www.ted.com/talks/jennifer_britton_coaching_teams_through_chaos
Set up a call with myself or my team to learn more about how we can support you through our card decks, customized team development and leadership training, OR award-winning ICF CCE approved Coach Training programs – https://calendly.com/jennbritton/15-minute-exploration-call
CEO, Head Coach and Author
Potentials Realized | Group Coaching Essentials
Leadership | Teamwork | Coaching
Contact: 1-416-996-8326
Email: [email protected]
Instagram:@ReconnectingWorkspaces @CoachingBusinessBuilder
Looking for bite-sized boosts to your work as a coach, leader or during your onboarding process? Check out our Card Decks. Now available on Deckible:
90-Day Guide for Success – Deck 1 – Days 1 – 30 (for new leaders, onboarding or those wanting a sprint) – https://bit.ly/90dayguidedeck1
ACTIVATE Your Group and Team Coaching Superpowers (for coaches) – https://bit.ly/activatedeck
Pick up a copy of Reconnecting Workspaces: Pathways to Thrive in the Virtual, Remote and Hybrid World at Amazon – https://bit.ly/reconnectingworkspaces.
Check out my latest TEDx talk – Coaching Teams Through Chaos at https://www.ted.com/talks/jennifer_britton_coaching_teams_through_chaos
Set up a call with myself or my team to learn more about how we can support you through our card decks, customized team development and leadership training, OR award-winning ICF CCE approved Coach Training programs – https://calendly.com/jennbritton/15-minute-exploration-call
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