The first days at a new job are usually accompanied by a variety of concerns. A new employee is afraid of getting lost, forgetting important papers and finds himself in a new environment not knowing the rules. The new employee's team manager, therefore, plays a very important role. He should ensure that the new employee feels welcome, understands his obligations, gets to know his workplace and the corporate culture.
We have prepared a set of rules a manager should follow when onboarding new subordinates. These recommendations are based on excerpts from the book entitled The First 90 Days which was published on CareerBuilder.com. Michael Watkins is the author of this international bestseller for emerging leaders, a renowned expert on leadership and a professor at the International Institute for Management Development in Lausanne. The Economist magazine calls the book "The On-boarding bible".
1. Do not misrepresent what you promised
The first rule should be obvious. During his very first days at work, the new employee should not find that you promised him a completely different job than he will actually be doing.
2. Prepare a written summary of his objectives and responsibilities
The employee should clearly know what is expected of him and when.
3. Give your full attention to the newcomer
During the scheduled meeting for the new member of your team, do not take any phone calls or e-mails. Make certain to tell everyone that you are onboarding a new team member and do not want to be disturbed.
4. Have all paperwork ready
Prepare all the forms in advance, that must be completed and give them to the new employee on the first day. Then you can focus on more important things.
5. Introduce the new employee to his colleagues
Give the members of your team the new employee's resume and job description. Organize a meeting of the entire team and the newcomer at which your existing team members give brief descriptions of their jobs and responsibilities within the team. You can assign a specific mentor to help orient the new member.
6. Prepare the workplace
His desk, computer, phone, and all other necessary items from pens to keys to business cards should be prepared for the new employee on the first day. Prepare your organizational scheme, phone book and login information to include him in your system.
7. Plan face to face meetings
If you cannot meet every week, schedule appointments every 14 days or at least after 30, 60 and 90 days. Talk about where the new team member is making progress and what he should focus more on in the future.
8. Balance the challenging first days
The first days are always challenging. Therefore, balance formal meetings with less formal ones. Organize e.g. lunch with colleagues and other breaks to relax.
9. Introduce your corporate culture
If your company has an employee manual, give it to the newcomer. In addition, explain the most important rules, including e.g. the dress code or working hours.
10. Evaluate the first 90 days
Three months after the arrival of a newcomer, is the time to discuss the performance feedback provided by his direct supervisor and the employee himself. This is a perfect opportunity to praise successes and identify further improvements.
-Kk-