There’s nothing worse than starting a new job and feeling like you’re not welcome. Your new employees are looking to you, their boss, to set the tone for their experience at the company.
Most new employees are anxious about their first few days on the job. In fact, a Cezanne HR survey found that over a fifth of new employees said they were unsure about what to expect on their first day of the new job. And it’s no wonder – there’s a lot to adjust to in those first few days, from learning the ropes of the job to getting to know your co-workers.
As a boss, it’s your responsibility to make sure your new employees feel welcome, comfortable, and confident in their new role. Here are a few tips on how to do just that:
1. Schedule a brief one-on-one meeting with each new employee on their first day
First impressions are important, and that applies to both employers and employees. When new employee starts their first day on the job, they likely have a lot of questions and concerns.
A brief face-to-face meeting can help to put them at ease and get them off to a good start. This meeting is an opportunity for the employer to introduce themselves and explain the company’s policies and procedures. 42% of the survey respondents declared they believed in-person meetings really helps develop engagement.
It’s also a chance to find out what the employee is looking for in their new position and what their goals are. Employees who feel like their bosses are interested in them and their career development are more likely to be engaged and productive.
2. Give them a tour of the office
No one enjoys feeling lost and confused, least of all on their first day of work. A quick tour of the office can help new employees feel more comfortable in their surroundings and help them orient themselves.
Be sure to point out important areas like the break room, the restrooms, and the exit in case of an emergency. You can also introduce them to some of their co-workers along the way.
3. Explain the company culture
Every company has its own unique culture, and it’s important that new employees understand what that culture is all about. After all, they’ll be expected to uphold those values and traditions.
Some companies have a more formal culture, while others are more relaxed. There is no right or wrong answer, but it’s important that employees know what to expect.
If your company has a dress code, for example, make sure they know what is and isn’t appropriate to wear to work. The last thing you want is for them to show up in jeans on dress-down Fridays when everyone else is wearing business casual.
4. Set up a buddy system
A “buddy system” is when each new employee is paired up with an experienced employee on their first day. The experienced employee acts as a mentor and guide, showing the newbie the ropes and helping them to feel welcome in the workplace.
This person can be a valuable resource for the new employee, and they’ll appreciate having someone to rely on. It’s also a great way to promote teamwork and build morale in the office.
5. Make sure they have everything they need
The last thing you want is for your new employees to feel like they’re being left out in the cold on their first day. Be sure to provide them with all the materials and equipment they’ll need to do their job, including a computer, a phone, access to email, and any relevant software programs.
If there are any forms that need to be filled out, make sure they have them. If they’re going to need a badge or key card to access the office, be sure to get that for them. In short, make it as easy as possible for them to start strongly.
6. Have a welcome lunch
Food is a great way to make people feel comfortable and welcome. On the first day or week, consider having lunch for all the new employees. This is a chance for everyone to get to know each other in a relaxed setting outside of work.
If you have a budget for it, you can even hire a catering service to make things extra special. Or, everyone can pitch in and bring something to share. Either way, it’s a friendly gesture that will make your new employees feel right at home.
7. Set up regular check-ins
After the first few days or weeks, it’s important to stay in touch with new employees and see how they’re doing. Set up regular check-ins, either one-on-one or in a group setting, to see how they’re settling in and if they have questions.
This is also a good time to give them feedback on their performance and let them know what they’re doing well and what areas need improvement. By staying in regular contact, you can help them feel more comfortable and confident in their new job.
Conclusion
Making new employees feel welcome is important for any business. By taking the time to orient them to their surroundings, explain the company culture, and provide them with the resources they need, you can help them to feel right at home.
And when they feel comfortable and confident in their new job, they’re more likely to be productive and successful.
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