Onboarding

Definition of onboarding

Onboarding is a process that aims to welcome and effectively integrate new employees into an organisation. It is a practice that is becoming increasingly important in human resources missions; for many companies, employee experience has become a priority.

Onboarding is a period that begins as soon as a new employee is hired and can continue during their first months in the company. It is an important step in the life of the employee, just like their departure, which must also be prepared. This is what is known as offboarding.

The objectives of onboarding

Onboarding aims to achieve several strategic objectives. First, it promotes a harmonious integration of the new employee into the team and company culture. It also helps to establish clear expectations regarding performance and behaviour at work.

In addition, onboarding can facilitate the productivity of a new employee by helping them quickly master the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their new role. Finally, onboarding strengthens employee engagement by showing them that they are valued and an integral part of the organisation.

The stages of the onboarding process

The onboarding process includes several key steps. It begins with communicating essential information to the successful candidate, such as details of their position, working hours and benefits.

Once the new recruits are integrated, onboarding can continue with specific training for their position and the company. This may include training sessions, a presentation of the company culture, access to and familiarisation with the tools and resources needed to perform their tasks, or lunch with their new colleagues.

Some tips for successful hybrid onboarding:

• Make sure the employee has good equipment for remote work
• Introduce the new recruit to their employer, manager and other employees, even those working remotely
• Set up a summary document: job description, tools used, floor plan, schedule for the first few weeks, etc.

The benefits of onboarding

For the company

• Improve the employee experience by strengthening the relationship between the company and its staff
• Increase the productivity of new employees through appropriate training and guidance
• Reinforce the corporate culture by presenting its values and mission
• Promote better integration within the team, for better collaboration and excellent overall performance

For employees

• Confidence and comfort from the beginning of their career path
• Accelerated skills development and professional development
• Facilitated social integration through building relationships with colleagues
• Clarity in performance expectations and work behaviour

In summary

Onboarding refers to the welcoming and integration of new employees into a company. This process extends from the recruitment of talent to the first week or even the first month, and follows different steps to facilitate the transition, establish specific expectations and encourage the engagement and productivity of new employees in each department.