First Impressions Last: Successful Onboarding Leads to Successful Employees

Depending on the role, the recruitment process can be lengthy. For the final candidate an offer and acceptance are the exciting result of potentially weeks of calls, interviews, testing and hoops to jump through. Before the start date, candidates are often keen to start and look forward to the next chapter in their career. However, all this can fall to pieces if their first few days and weeks are disorganised and shambolic.

Business Insider reported that six in 10 Australian managers have had a new employee resign in their probation period due to poor onboarding processes. For everyone involved, this can be costly and inconvenient. It can be rectified through by implementing a few simple but structured steps:

  • Create an onboarding document that outlines what is needed for an employee to be effectively onboarded and how long this should take. Ensure someone owns this to ensure a consistent experience for everyone.
  • Even if the recruitment process was handled through an agency, reach out to employee prior to their start date. Have them fill out key forms prior to starting and ensure all relevant IT systems and log-ins are ready for their first day.
  • Create a training schedule that covers training such as OH&S, learning about company objectives and goals, and role relevant responsibilities.
  • Arrange meetings for the new employee to be introduced to the relevant stakeholders, managers, and company leaders.
  • This schedule can and should be extended beyond the probation period and should include a long-term performance development plan and additional learning.

It is in everyone’s interest for a new employee to stay and succeed. From the offer and acceptance stage, employers should make new employees feel welcome and equipped to do well in their new job. Initially, they will need regular guidance, so having their Manager or HR check in frequently will aid in the onboarding experience.

When you have invested so much time, not to mention money, sourcing a suitable new employee for your team, the last thing you want to do is see everything fall apart in the first few weeks or months. Remember, first impressions last, so get the onboarding right and give your new team member an experience that will be memorable for all the right reasons.

Get in touch

Sally Horwood • August 28, 2019

Find out more by contacting one of our specialisat recruitment consultants across Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.

Contact us

Share this article

Useful links

Search for jobs today

Got a vacancy?

What's happening in the market?

How do I prepare for my job interview?

Recent Insights

By Claire McNab May 26, 2024
In today's rapidly changing world, the call for environmental responsibility is louder than ever. With climate change looming as a critical global challenge, businesses are increasingly under pressure to play their part in mitigating its effects. One of the most significant ways they can contribute is by taking accountability for their sustainability practices, particularly in reducing carbon emissions.
By Esha Nischol May 19, 2024
In today's rapidly evolving landscape, automation is reshaping industries and transforming the way we work. While automation offers numerous benefits, including increased efficiency and productivity, it also presents challenges and uncertainties for the workforce. Understanding the opportunities and challenges of automation on employment is crucial for individuals and organizations alike as we navigate the future of work.
By Hamish Lamberton May 15, 2024
In recent years, the rise of remote work has revolutionized the way companies approach recruitment. With advancements in technology and a growing acceptance of virtual communication tools, many organizations are now embracing remote recruitment strategies to attract and hire top talent. In this blog post, we'll explore how companies are adapting to virtual hiring processes and the strategies they're employing to succeed in this new era of recruitment. One of the key challenges of remote recruitment is creating meaningful connections with candidates without the benefit of face-to-face interactions. To overcome this obstacle, companies are leveraging video conferencing platforms to conduct virtual interviews and assessments. These tools allow recruiters to assess candidates' communication skills, professionalism, and cultural fit, all while providing a more personal touch than traditional phone interviews. In addition to video interviews, companies are also utilizing virtual recruitment events to engage with candidates and showcase their employer brand. Virtual career fairs, networking sessions, and informational webinars allow companies to connect with a broader pool of candidates regardless of geographic location. By hosting these events online, companies can reach candidates who may not have been able to attend in-person events, thereby expanding their talent pool and increasing diversity. Another important aspect of remote recruitment is the use of technology to streamline the hiring process. Applicant tracking systems (ATS) and recruitment software help companies manage job postings, track candidate applications, and collaborate with hiring teams more efficiently. These tools automate repetitive tasks, such as resume screening and scheduling interviews, freeing up recruiters to focus on building relationships with candidates and making strategic hiring decisions. Furthermore, companies are investing in employer branding initiatives to differentiate themselves in a competitive talent market. Through social media, company blogs, and virtual office tours, organizations can showcase their company culture, values, and employee benefits to prospective candidates. By highlighting their unique selling points and demonstrating their commitment to employee satisfaction, companies can attract top talent and create a positive candidate experience. Finally, remote recruitment requires a strong emphasis on communication and collaboration among hiring teams. With team members working from different locations, it's essential to establish clear channels of communication and set expectations for roles and responsibilities. Regular check-ins, status updates, and feedback sessions ensure that everyone is aligned and working towards common hiring goals. In conclusion, remote recruitment strategies are becoming increasingly essential for companies looking to stay competitive in today's digital age. By embracing virtual hiring processes, leveraging technology, and prioritizing communication and collaboration, organizations can attract and hire top talent regardless of geographic location. As remote work continues to evolve, companies that adapt and innovate in their recruitment strategies will be best positioned to succeed in the future of work.

NZ's 2024 Employment

and Salary Trends Report

Salary trends, talent attraction and retention strategies

Request your copy
Share by: