The first few days of an individual’s employment set the tone. Having a documented on boarding process will ensure that the individual’s first few days are welcoming and productive. Here are some key items that you should cover:
In advance of arrival, communicate:
- Who he/she should see on the first day and where to find that person
- Make sure their supervisor knows when the individual’s first day will be
- What the expected attire is. Be very specific on what is allowed and what is not permitted.
- Anything they need to bring with them (IDs for the paperwork), notebook, etc.
- Anything that is not permitted at work
- If cell phone use is not allowed, make sure that is communicated along with a phone number which could be used by family in case of an emergency.
- What to expect on the first day (s).
Onsite:
- Introduce the person to his/her co-workers
- Review the individual’s schedule for short and long term
- Set expectations for behavior
- Explain how job training works both the first few days as well as long term.
- Review benefits
- If a restaurant and food/beverage are a perk, explain when and how they can take advantage of the perk. For example, is it during their shift? Before/after? Can they use their benefit and give the item to a friend?
- With a part-time employee, discuss his or her schedule. If the schedule is fixed, share how you expect them to handle it when changes need to be made.
For more tips on retention, click here to download “5 Secrets to Retaining Staff”.