As remote working becomes more popular because of the flexibility, conveniences, and savings it provides, more and more employees are expected to join or be part of a team working remotely. However, some companies still struggle with the pitfalls and common mistakes of remote working and onboarding new, out-of-office employees. For a smoother process, first, make sure you have a customized HRIS software tutorial.
Practical Tips for Onboarding Remote Employees
A Welcome Package
You all know how you feel on your first day at a new job. You’re excited and at the same time anxious about all the things you have to learn and how everything will go down. A welcome package can go a long way in making a new employee feel appreciated, accepted, and most importantly, at home in the company.
A welcome message or video recorded by the other staff members or a virtual lunch together can go a long way in creating a foundation for proper connections.
Take Time for Orientation
Remote or not, there is still that feeling of being overwhelmed on the first day. The new team member might feel anxious about whether they’re doing things right and meeting all your expectations. Take time to orient them properly with everything they need to know. Encourage them to ask questions and make sure they can get in touch with the right person for assistance.
Make sure the technology you will be using is capable of serving the remote team. For example, an excellent collaborative platform can help employees communicate effectively and work together as if they were in the same office.
Additionally, make sure to stock their toolbox with everything they need. It includes but is not limited to remote IT support from a company such as Concise, logistics for travel arrangements and expenses, online security tools, and protocols on important information that should be shared externally.
Assign a Culture Mentor
Even when a company has remote employees, they still have to nurture the company culture successfully. The best way to do that is to assign a culture mentor who can regularly communicate with your remote staff.
The effort will ensure everyone is on the same page, regardless of their location or time zone. Company culture includes your mission statement, vision, core values, and beliefs. It will ensure that your remote team identifies with the same company message.
Additionally, give your remote employee a contact person they can reach anytime they have questions. Establish a clear framework for communication and support them to feel confident about their contribution. Regular check-ups are essential, and you should make sure to involve the entire management.
Introduce all the Important Stakeholders
The new hire needs to know the people they’ll be working with, from the supervisors, managers, directors, all the way to the top executives. Make sure you introduce and explain their roles and responsibilities in detail.
The introduction will make it easier for remote employees to identify with the stakeholders and see themselves as part of one big family. You can have each stakeholder draft a welcome note and send it to the new hire to break the ice.
Make Sure They’re Not Overwhelmed
It’s easy for new employees to get overwhelmed when they’re in a new environment. Remote or not, you need to make them feel that it’s okay to be anxious at the start. They should know they can take their time and there is no rush. Ensure your remote staff isn’t overworked by giving them achievable goals, checking in with them regularly, and making sure they are on track.
As you will realize, the first few months are critical for a new hire. They need as much support as is available to learn new things and fit into the company culture. Make sure to provide them with support systems that will help them reach out for assistance. You can use instant messaging, online collaboration software, phone calls, and video conferences.
Why Pay Attention to the Employee Onboarding Process?
Interactive virtual onboarding sessions or a virtual lunch together can go a long way in creating a foundation for a proper connection. Establishing rapport and setting expectations is very important as it determines how your remote team will bond and work together as a unit.
Your remote employees will flourish if given proper guidance and care. Remember to put yourself in their shoes and make them feel involved. It will help you create a more cohesive, productive, and successful team that’s willing to go the extra mile for the company.
