Onboarding is how companies introduce new employees to their roles, the team, and the organization. It covers:
- Company policies and procedures
- Workplace culture and values
- Job expectations and responsibilities
A solid onboarding process helps new hires settle in, get up to speed, and feel engaged. It usually includes orientation sessions, training, team introductions, and access to necessary tools and resources. When done well, onboarding improves employee satisfaction, reduces turnover, and helps people contribute faster.
Why is onboarding important?
Good onboarding benefits both employees and the company. It helps new hires feel welcome, understand their job, and get comfortable in their new environment. They learn company expectations, receive the training they need, and build connections with coworkers.
For businesses, strong onboarding improves retention, boosts morale, and speeds up productivity. It also lowers hiring costs by reducing turnover. In short, a well-planned onboarding process sets everyone up for success.
What is the onboarding process?
Onboarding usually happens in six steps, from preparation to evaluation. Here’s how it works:
1. Preparation
Before a new hire starts, HR and managers handle the setup. This means:
- Completing paperwork
- Setting up their workspace and accounts
- Ensuring access to tools and systems
- Informing the team about the new employee
2. Orientation
Once they start, new employees attend orientation sessions to learn about the company’s mission, values, structure, and policies. They also meet key people, including teammates and leadership, to help them feel connected right away.
3. Training
Next comes job-specific training. Depending on the role, this could include:
- Learning software and tools
- Reviewing company processes
- Compliance and regulatory training
- Hands-on or mentor-led learning
4. Integration activities
To help new hires feel like part of the team, companies often organize:
- Team-building activities
- Group projects
- Social events or informal meetups
The goal is to help them build relationships and get comfortable in the workplace.
5. Feedback & Support
New employees need ongoing guidance as they adjust. Regular check-ins with managers, HR, and coworkers help answer questions, offer support, and ensure they’re on track.
6. Evaluation
After the onboarding period, the company gathers feedback to see what’s working and what’s not. They may adjust the process based on input from new hires and managers to keep improving the experience.
How long is the onboarding process?
It depends. Onboarding can last anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on the company, role, and industry. But onboarding doesn’t stop after the first week. A strong process continues beyond the initial phase to make sure employees feel supported and set up for long-term success.
