In July the Russian job market continued to suffer from an acute shortage of people, and companies are actively competing for qualified staff. Yet even with such competition, in 2022 about 28% of new employees quit soon after starting because of onboarding problems.
What is onboarding?
Onboarding is the process of integrating a new employee into the company's culture and introducing them to tasks, colleagues and corporate procedures. Well-organized onboarding helps an employee quickly become part of the team and start working effectively.
Onboarding stages: from first impression to full autonomy
Stage 1. Before the start date (Impression)
- Initial interview with an HR manager
- Discussing career growth prospects
- Getting information about the company and its culture
Stage 2. First day at work (Engagement)
- Office tour
- Meeting your manager and the team
- Getting to know your workplace and available perks (coffee, doughnuts, fuel allowance, corporate cards)
- Setting up your equipment (computer, email)
Stage 3. First week at work (Orientation)
- Reading documentation and job descriptions
- Being added to company chats and communication platforms
- First meeting with management to discuss first impressions
Stage 4. Second week at work (Settling into the role)
- Getting feedback from management and colleagues
- The chance to work with a mentor
- Access to learning materials and courses
- Welcome training for getting acquainted and sharing experience
Stage 5. Third and fourth week at work (Integration)
- Taking part in "adaptation meetings" with management
- Assessing how well you have integrated into the team
- Ongoing communication with colleagues to build working relationships
Stage 6. From the fourth week to the end of the second month (Immersion)
- Taking part in role-plays or business simulations for hands-on learning
- Possible use of virtual reality to get familiar with equipment or processes
- Constant practice on the job
Stage 7. From the third month (Autonomy)
- Continuous learning and professional development
- Regular meetings with management to discuss progress and future plans
- A gradual move to more autonomous work
These stages may vary from company to company, but they are a good guide to what awaits you at a new job.
How to adapt successfully?
1. Prepare in advance
Read all the available information about the company, its culture and main projects. This will help you fit into the team faster.
2. Be proactive
Do not be shy about asking questions and starting conversations with colleagues. This will speed up your adaptation and help you build a positive image.
3. Use the resources available
Many companies offer various trainings and mentoring programs for new employees. Take advantage of these opportunities.
4. Do not be afraid to make mistakes
Mistakes are a normal part of learning. The main thing is to analyze them and draw conclusions.
Signs that a new job is not right for you
- Dissatisfaction with tasks: If the tasks seem uninteresting or do not match your skills, this can be a signal.
- Conflicts in the team: Constant conflicts and misunderstandings with colleagues or management can point to a mismatch with the corporate culture.
- No prospects: If the company offers no opportunities for professional and career growth, it may be worth thinking about changing jobs.
- Dissatisfaction with conditions: Low pay, poor working conditions or a lack of benefits can also be signals.
Adjusting to a new job is a complex, multifaceted process that requires active participation from both the employee and the company. However, if you know the basic principles of successful onboarding and keep possible "red flags" in mind, you can make this transition smoother and more successful.