Onboarding remote employees the right way means long-term success for both them and your business (the ultimate win-win.) Great onboarding managers make sure to set up remote employees with the tools, contacts, and information they need to understand how to hit the ground running, as well as how to uphold the company standards.
Not sure where to start? Use the onboarding tips below to take talent from feeling like a “new hire” to “part of the team” in no time.
1. Provide Pre-Training
Take your time with onboarding so that expectations and communications channels are clear. This way, remote hires can feel confident in their abilities to meet their new responsibilities. Provide snackable video segments before their first day as educational and entertaining training. Include segments that are relevant to the job, team, and company. It’s also nice to include inspirational messaging from C-level employees, for example, talking about their career paths or how the company makes a difference.
If you can’t make your own videos, use premade videos from programs like LinkedIn Learning, formerly Lynda.com. Aggregate a lesson plan of videos to help new employees achieve their professional goals. LinkedIn Learning allows users to view from an extensive library of lessons taught by industry experts on relevant skills with business, creative, and tech courses.
2. Set Them Up With Tools for Success
For a new employee’s first day, it’s important to provide them with a comfortable working space. Be sure to equip them with the necessary tools for their business interactions such as a computer, monitors, or even a standing desk.
Swag Ideas:
This Adjustable Laptop Computer Stand helps to release cervical and neck fatigue while working a desk job. Plus, it’s portable if your new hire doesn’t have a designated home office.
Speaking of being on the move – If your remote employee will be taking their work computer to different places, it’s best to provide protection. This laptop sleeve with a zipper will keep it safe with a snug fit no matter where it goes.
3. Send Swag Care Kits
In a time when everything is moving to digital, physical care packages are not a thing of the past. When onboarding a new employee, let them know you’re hyped to have them on the team and start the relationship on the right foot by sending a care kit full of swag. Personalize the swag box with something related to their interests, experiences, or physical location.
Swag Idea:
Homesick has a line of candles for each state. During stressful days they can burn the scents of their home, made from natural soy wax and custom fragrance oils to wind down.
Send them company apparel so they can rep the team strong on Zoom calls!
4. Outline the Early Days
Send a remote employee an outline of what their first weeks will involve. Include contact information, documentation when relevant, and calendar invites. A clear outline helps to set up expectations as no one wants to log onto their first day of work at home and feel forgotten about.
A great way to fill up a new hire’s schedule is to have one-on-ones with everyone on the team. This will allow them to form personal and professional connections for the future.
5. Engage Socially Whenever Possible
Involve remote employees in happy hour activities to foster personal connections. Games and fun activities help to create camaraderie faster and will ultimately generate a better work environment. Try social distancing team lunches where possible, and if all parties feel comfortable as states begin lifting restrictions.
We hope you found some tips to help make your next remote employee onboarding engaging and encouraging!
How would you welcome your new hires in the virtual world?
