Helping HR Welcome New Hires into the Organization…

Many people happily engage in the same jobs for years – enjoying the stability and longevity inherent in their cozy realm; while others seem to change jobs frequently – often seeking more opportunity, compensation and/or autonomy.

Both of these types of people are assets for an organization’s team – and they should be cultivated and nurtured as such through efforts to acquire and retain these talented professionals. Established company veterans provide stability and a wealth of knowledge, while newcomers offer new insights and perspectives into processes.

We’ve all worked for companies where certain individuals have been there seemingly ‘forever’ while other positions seem to foster a ‘revolving door’ phenomenon. For instance, the best office managers I’ve known, have been in their positions for years, learning the ins-and-outs of the company and its vibes – and know how to get things done – as well as help new employees begin to mesh with the more seasoned veterans on the staff.

“Starting on day one, it’s everyone’s job to incorporate a new person into a team,” says Marilyn Santiesteban, Texas A&M’s Bush School of Government and Public Service. “Make sure the new hire is invited to lunch with someone every day for the first couple of weeks. Incorporate the newbie into the office culture, and find ways to include them,” from ‘Help new employees blend into the team,’ as posted on Business Management Daily.

“Just a quick ‘Hi, my name is…’ is a kind enough gesture, but it’s also very forgettable,” adds Tim Backes, career advisor at Resume Genius. “Introduce yourself more thoroughly,” he says. “Tell them what you do for the company, how long you’ve been there. And ask them a question to include them into the conversation. Keep it, friendly, and short, but making it a two-way conversation as opposed to a boilerplate introduction is very comforting.”

‘From management down, everyone directly involved with a new hire has a role in making the new person feel welcome. Everyone should be asked, “What was it like for you on your first day and week?” and “What could others have done to make you feel more comfortable, accepted, and appreciated?” Use these questions to brainstorm and come up with a detailed plan for bringing a new person into your organization,’ from ‘5 Ways to Make New Employees Feel Welcome,’ by Harvey Deutschendorf.

Welcoming new employees, or onboarding, as it’s referred to today, is everyone’s responsibility at the company. The impressions established by those first meetings and greetings will shape your new colleagues experience of not only your firm – but you and your working relationship – possibly for years to come. A little time and courtesy extended at the beginning of a relationship may become a rewarding long-term productive partnership – and quite possibly a life-long friend.