5 Tips to Master the Remote Onboarding Process
Posted October 6th, 2020
Many companies have embraced the idea of having a remote workforce. For some, it was simply a necessity due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For others, telecommuting created opportunities, allowing them to lower costs, boost productivity, and tap talent outside of their physical area.
Regardless of the motivator, companies soon had to address a challenge. Onboarding remote team members isn’t always as easy as when you can handle it in person. Luckily, there are ways to enhance the online experience, ensuring it is engaging and effective. If you want to master the remote onboarding process, here are five tips that can help.
1. Make a Formal Team Introduction
When people onboard at the worksite, they often meet the other members of the team organically. They may cross paths as they head to their station, or bump into each other at the watercooler.
Remote employees don’t have those natural opportunities. As a result, managers need to be more intentional about handling team introductions. Ideally, managers should coordinate a formal introduction, preferably by using a video call. That way, everyone can see each other, discuss who they are and what they do, and start forging beneficial connections.
2. Assign Them a Buddy
Having a go-to connection for questions and information can be incredibly helpful. It lets the new hire know who will be there for them consistently. Plus, it allows them to start creating a bond with their buddy, boosting that working relationship.
When you choose a buddy for them, make sure it is someone who understands most of the new hire’s position. Additionally, reduce the buddy’s workload, allowing them to dedicate more of their time to this part of the onboarding process.
3. Have Clear Expectations
Well-defined expectations are critical for new hires. It lets them know where they need to focus, for one. For another, it gives them an idea of how quickly they should progress through the process, creating a form of a timeline for their growth.
However, when you present any expectations, avoid being overly rigid. Talk to the new hire as you discuss any core goals for their development. If they have questions, answer them. If they have suggestions or other input, consider it. The idea is to find a pace that works well for you and the incoming employee, ensuring everyone is on the page, and the new hire is set up for success.
4. Incorporate Introductory Training
Most employees use a wide range of tools to handle their responsibilities. If you want to make sure that the incoming employee has a solid understanding of how to use the tools, incorporate introductory training into the onboarding process.
Additionally, give them an overview of your company’s products or services, as well as how the new hire’s work applies to the greater mission. That way, they can see not just how they should approach their tasks, but the value their efforts provide to the business at-large.
5. Schedule Regular Check-ins
Checking in regularly with a new hire allows you not just to gauge their progress but also to assist with their ongoing development. You can assess how well they are meeting expectations, provide additional guidance, and start forming a strong working relationship. This can help the incoming employee reach full productivity faster, as well as become an integral part of your team.
Ultimately, the five tips above can help you boost your remote onboarding process, allowing you to set up the new hire for success. If you’d like to learn more, the staff at Bayside Solutions can help. Contact us today.
