19 Aug 5 Tips for Creating a Virtual Onboarding Program
Research shows that if you want to retain employees, you must begin with the onboarding process. Approximately 69% of employees are likely to stay with a company for more than three years if they experience great onboarding. However, the onboarding process can be a challenge when you work remotely. Luckily, with some great ideas, work, and time, you can create a virtual onboard program that will help all of your new hires reach their full productivity and performance levels.
Here are five tips to help you create a successful virtual onboarding program.
1. Find the Right Tech
There are all types of tech applications and devices available. You want to choose the best for your company’s specific needs and that will be easy for many of your employees to utilize at home. You want to find tech that streamlines the onboarding process and makes it more functional and efficient.
If you give your employees equipment to use at home, such as a work-issued computer, make sure you focus on devices that will enhance productivity and performance, not just those that have the lowest price tag.
2. Create Fun Videos
Videos are an incredible way for your new hires to visually learn about your company and the type of work they will complete. However, you don’t want to sit them down in front of the computer for hours. Consider creating your own in-house videos to train your employees. Make each video short and informational. When you create the videos on your own, this not only helps you focus on the most important information, but it will help new hires familiarize themselves with other team members as well.
3. Don’t Forget the Goals!
It is easy to get caught up with processes and programs that you forget a critical aspect of onboarding — setting goals. Dedicate a portion of your virtual onboarding program to goal setting and establish an action plan to help employees’ reach these goals. Make sure one-on-one meetings are held frequently and these goals are discussed.
4. Schedule Time for Questions
The first few weeks of a new job can be overwhelming and stressful. It can be even more of a challenge when you don’t have anyone next to you, helping you every step of the way. During your virtual onboarding program, schedule time to meet with your new hire to gather feedback, ask questions, and more. Make this a regular part of the day for several weeks until your new hire feels comfortable and can tackle most tasks with ease.
5. Send the Program in Advance
You don’t want to spend your new hire’s first day getting all equipment, programs, etc., ready. This is a waste of time for both yourself and your new employee. Before your hire’s first day, send links to all applications that must be downloaded, email over all paperwork, etc. You may also consider mailing a small swag package filled with company t-shirts, pens, paper, etc. Encourage your employee to have all applications downloaded and ready to go by the first day so you can jump right into the onboarding program.
If your team is remote on a permanent basis or just for a short time, a virtual onboarding process should be a priority. With the above ideas, your onboarding program will ensure your new hires are ready to work and will find success in their new role.
