Onboarding encompasses the process by which a company introduces a new employee to its work culture, policies, and vision. It is essential for the stability and success of the company and its newest employees. Onboarding may include a combination of training, sharing of knowledge and skills necessary for an employee to be successful within a company. This process may take up to 12 months and may take on several forms including meetings, videos, orientation, and reading material. The sooner an employee understands a company’s expectations and work culture, the sooner they will feel part of a team or company and will strive to reach its goals.

There are many positive findings related to a company’s successful onboarding process. Research indicates that employers experience increased employee retention and engagement as a result of good onboarding practices. In the long run, these employees feel more job satisfaction and exceed performance levels.

A company’s human resources and management team should strive to have a strong onboarding process. They should ensure that the new employee is well-informed about the company’s culture, goals, and standard practices. Another important aspect of onboarding is that new employees should have the ability to provide management with feedback regarding their long-term training and goals.

Onboarding also includes the tools, systems, and information that the new employee will need to successfully perform their job duties. A company should never overlook their onboarding process. There is a positive correlation between company new hire practices, employee retention, and success.

Interested in learning more about employee onboarding? Check out our new hire checklist and process of talent management.