What is an induction?
An induction for a new employee is the process of settling them in and giving them all the right tools to adjust to their new role and the working environment. It will usually start on the first day and the length will depend on the role and the company. The induction process will include issuing of relevant documents, introductions to the new team and an introduction to your new work surroundings.
Why the induction process is important
Effective inductions give a good first impression and help the new starter to integrate into the company successfully. They are mutually beneficial for both the new employee and the employer. The more effective the induction is, the more likely the employee will feel supported and part of a positive work culture.
There will be legal obligations to observe such as providing health & safety information, along with fire procedures, general housekeeping and any compulsory training that may need to be completed.
The induction should give the new employee the opportunity to learn about the organisation, its culture and the mission and values of the company to help them to settle in quickly and to start being productive.
If there is little or no induction, or it is not completed effectively then this will have a detriment on the impression the new employee has of the company resulting in poor staff retention rates.
How to plan a successful induction
Starting in a new role is daunting for everyone and to make it easier you need to provide them with all the necessary information, tools and equipment to make their first few days as seamless as possible. Think about what you would like to know when you start with a new employer, what would make you feel at ease and how can you ensure they feel part of the team from the beginning?
A successful induction process should include the following:
- A warm welcome from the manager and perhaps issuing a welcome gift.
- Meeting new colleagues
- Workplace tour/ housekeeping
- Getting to know the role
- Getting set up on systems and email (if not already completed)
- Health & Safety information
- Issuing of equipment & documentation
- Identifying training needs
- Information on culture, company mission and values
- Company benefits
- Getting to know company policies
Once you have a template in place and know that it works, use this with every new employee for a successful start.
Do you have questions about Induction?
Give us a call at CUBE HR, we’ll be happy to advise you and we have policies and templates available to meet every HR need.
Why not check out our blog on a similar topic Induction – Getting It Right First Time
We also have a YouTube channel with loads of handy videos
