Boosting Employee Retention with Effective Onboarding Strategies
It’s wise to equip employees for triumph from their initial days. Surprisingly, many firms overlook this, leading to a detrimental impact on retention rates.
Workforce.com found that nearly 40% of employees quit their job within the first year of their employment. This could stem from a change in employee expectations or inadequate employer engagement. The bottom line is, effective onboarding strategies are essential.
The Impact of Employee Onboarding Best Practices
Employee onboarding is designed to integrate newcomers smoothly into a company. It’s a fact that well-structured onboarding can make employees 69% more likely to remain for at least three years. This isn’t a quick fix—it’s a strategic commitment that could span up to two years.
8 Onboarding Best Practices to Adopt Today
- Pre-Start Engagement
Don’t let the time lapse between job acceptance and the start date create disconnection. Reach out, be it via email or a call, to show the new hire they’re already a valued part of the team.
- First Day Impressions
A memorable first day can set a positive tone. Ensure all practicalities are in place, from ID badges to a welcome lunch, fostering a sense of belonging from the start.
- Structured Early Days
Provide a clear schedule for the initial weeks, balancing orientation with specific tasks, easing the stress of the new role.
- Clear Role Clarification
Address any job description ambiguities by setting clear, realistic expectations from day one, leaving room for any clarifying questions.
- Comprehensive Training Programs
Invest in training that’s informative and allows new employees to learn at a manageable pace, ensuring comprehension and retention.
- Cross-Departmental Support
Encourage collaboration by forming a team across departments to support the onboarding process, promoting workplace unity and resource sharing.
- Mentorship Provision
A mentor can provide guidance and support, making a significant difference in the new hire’s adjustment period.
- Immediate Involvement
Bring new employees up to speed with current projects to prevent them from feeling overwhelmed and to contribute meaningfully from the outset.
The Onboarding Advantage
While we don’t claim to be the ultimate experts, at Qualigence, our onboarding process is proof of our commitment to excellent client and employee retention. Explore our recruitment services to see how our processes can bolster your organization.