Step 1: Shift paperwork online
Having new hires sign contracts and other documents can be time-consuming if they need to print, scan and mail all copies back. Consider using an e-signature tool so that employees can add their signatures digitally and share contracts with HR in a secure environment.
Step 2: Send equipment and manuals
Order laptops and other hardware that remote workers will need well ahead of their start date. Confirm they have received all necessary equipment for their work and ask the IT department to aid them with the setup and train them on various file sharing application, cloud backup software, and computer security.
Step 3: Gift company swag
Put together a care package that includes what a new hire would normally receive. Throw in some of the company’s merchandise like a coffee mug, shirt, pen, bag, employee handbook, etc. A welcome letter or note from the team and the CEO is welcomed too. To save costs, you can send these swag over to the new hirers along with their work equipment.
Step 4: Get them up to speed on company culture
Help new hires understand the culture by sharing across the company process, company introduction presentation, and any videos or pictures from various meetings. Jump into a conference call with them and share your screen while you share about the company mission and value, it will help the new hires understand better.
Step 5: Involvement and face time with teams
These meetings could be one-on-one or with group calls. During their first days, new hires should ideally meet with their co-workers, managers and direct reports, and employees from other departments that they will work closely with. Be sure to have a video conference platform set up for them to easily access and be a part of the meeting.
Step 6: Set specific goals and expectations
New hires should not wait until their managers are online to learn what their next tasks are. Make sure their managers develop and share a task calendar after the new hirers’ onboarding session, define short and long-term goals, and schedule weekly one-on-one meetings to discuss upcoming projects and resolve any issues.
Step 7: Schedule check-ins
Schedule calls after the new hires’ first week, month, and quarter to touch base. Such calls will help the HR to understand if they are facing any difficulties and whether they have settled into their roles. Send a coffee to them and have a quick coffee catch up virtually together.
This article is contributed by Jobstreet.com.
