We're in a new world now creating new challenges in the way we do our work including how we welcome and engage our new hires virtually.
We have new challenges now with the pandemic - how do we onboard a new employee virtually? Onboarding virtually creates new opportunities that we may continue to use even when the pandemic is not as much of a threat. Whether you call it Onboarding, Induction, Enculturation, or New Employee Orientation (NEO), the process used to welcome and train your new employees while capturing their excitement of a new job and reducing their new job jitters is critical to their success. Conducting the process virtually just adds a bit more innovation in providing the same information.
NEO is not a one-day event, but rather a process that begins after their acceptance of the job and extends through the first year of their employment. Studies show that the new arrival's primary concerns are three things my job, my boss, and my coworkers.
Dealing with new employee jitters and uncertainties is a high priority in orientation programs. How long this mental mayhem lasts may depend a great deal on employee orientation. Onboarding is a strategy and a process that extends well beyond their first day on the job. It is a critical process to get the new hire off and running in their new environment - their new virtual environment, their new virtual position, and with new virtual colleagues enabling them to enjoy their work and their employer.
Onboarding needs to include fun activities, using “buddies” to streamline the new hire's experience, beginning from the point of the job offer. All of these efforts can be done virtually. It is one of the most important elements an employer should invest in.
Bob McKenzie brings over 40 years of extensive human resources management experience to the table. With a rich background spanning various industries in both the private sector, public sector, and nonprofit organizations, Bob has honed his expertise in all facets of HR practices.
His insights and expertise have been recognized in numerous Human Resources trade publications, including HR.com, HR Magazine, HR Florida Review, Vault.com, BNA, the Institute of Management and Administration, and the Business Journals. As a sought-after speaker, Bob has graced several conferences and led engaging audio and web-based seminars.
Bob holds a Bachelor of Science in Commerce Degree with double majors in Industrial Relations and Organizational Behavior from Rider University. Currently residing in Brunswick, GA, Bob continues to be a driving force in the HR industry, offering valuable insights and solutions to organizations worldwide.