How to successfully onboard new starters remotely
Set your people up
with the right kit
The tech you give to new starters is incredibly important nowadays, and
you only get one chance to make a first impression. New devices, the latest
software and up to date digital tools all show that you are willing to invest
in your workforce.
45% of people
admit that their personal devices are more powerful than their work ones.
Therefore, as a business, providing the latest and greatest tech means you will
minimise the BYOD (bring your own device) trend and help reduce data
breaches.
Also, consider converging your technology as much as possible to ensure
a seamless experience. Two-thirds of people need to switch between five different apps to get work
done, wasting over a month of productivity per year.
Don’t forget the workspace and ensure your new starters have the right
setup to work from home comfortably and connect with ease. Broadband, desks,
cameras, and speakers are all key.
Have a clear induction
plan
No matter what industry or level you’re hiring at, you will need to
train new starters on your systems, procedures, and product portfolio. You
need to get them to feel like part of the company as soon as you can.
Here at FOS.net, all our new starters get a training plan on arrival,
and this gives them a sense of purpose and helps them to feel included from the
get-go. Agreeing goals and objectives at the beginning of your new people’s
journey with the company gives them ownership of their personal development. ​
Ensure they are
part of your culture
Before remote working was the norm, small business culture was very much
focused around their offices. Now the offices are no longer the hubs they used
to be – companies must work hard to build that sense of comradery across their
virtual platforms, especially Microsoft Teams. However, there is a
tendency for teams to become more siloed and lose touch with the wider
business, now that the opportunity to bump into people is no longer there. It
is therefore worth considering virtual company-wide events and fun activities
to fill that void.
Our senior management team also used to spend a lot of time travelling
to meet their people face to face. This is now impossible and has freed time
up. It is tempting to focus on other matters, but we need to remember that the
reason for the travel was to meet, engage with and motivate your team. Leaders
must develop other ways of making their people feel valued, especially with new
starters.
Lastly, if you want to do face-to-face meetups, ensure the whole
team participates, not just some members. This will help to make everyone
feel included.