Get the best
start for your new employee
Now that you’ve found your new employee – how do you plan to keep them happy and around for the long-haul?
The first few months of a new job can be a difficult time for employees and employers alike. Until your new starter connects with the business and establishes themselves in their role, they can be easily disillusioned and are vulnerable to pressure and poaching from other companies.
The faster you can help your new employee settle in, the happier they will be and the faster they can begin contributing to the success of the business.
Top tips for retaining new staff
Develop an on-boarding program
First impressions count and are always remembered. Structured on-boarding programs provide employees with a smooth transition into their workplace. These programs help employees to:
- Feel welcome and in control
- Integrate quickly into their new work environment
- Actively contribute to the business more quickly
- Improve overall job satisfaction and long-term commitment
- Feel positive about your employment brand and company values
Ultimately a good experience during recruitment and when starting a new job improves your employee’s success and helps to retain them for the future.
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Extend a warm welcome
A well-structured on-boarding program doesn’t have to be complicated. Overall, you need to welcome your new starter, show them how they fit into the big picture for your business and let them know what’s expected of them.
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Get the basics right
Avoid leaving the basics until the eleventh hour. Without the essentials your new starter is left feeling unwelcome and unproductive.
- Hiring-related paperwork: tax, super, benefits programs
- System set-ups: phone, computer, passwords
- Security clearance
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Arrange a schedule of activities
Hit the ground running with a structured schedule of activities that encompasses and overview of the business and how it works.
- Highlight the vision and values of the organisation with a session on the corporate history and culture
- Provide an overview of the business structure, strategy and goals
- Arrange any necessary training or skills development
- Discuss coaching and/or mentoring programs, performance reviews etc…
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Add the personal touch
Put your new starter in touch with the people they’ll need to know to do their job properly. Building relationships will improve their engagement with the company and provide an avenue for questions before they become real concerns.
- Set up regular formal and informal two-way feedback sessions to assess the employee's progress and concerns
- Arrange meet-and-greets with key staff & fellow team members
- Appoint a ‘buddy’, mentor or manager as a primary point of contact for questions and information.
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