According to recent research released from LinkedIn and Microsoft, nearly half (46%) of professionals say they’re considering quitting sometime this year— higher than the 40% who said the same ahead of 2021′s great resignation. This data, paired with continued economic uncertainty, has put employee retention at the forefront of employer’s minds – as well as new hires.
A true retention strategy starts from the very first day on the job, so our team of experts compiled a few ways to set the tone for a successful and smooth onboarding to create a welcoming environment from day one.
Personalize Their Workspace:
Start with a warm, personalized welcome. In 2024, employees value personalization more than ever. Decorate their desk with items that reflect their interests and make them feel instantly at home. If the new hire is starting in an in person or hybrid role, consider creating a welcome sign that greets them as they walk into the lobby on their first day. Have their workspace ready with all items that might need for their first day, including their business cards. Regardless of the work model, have a schedule for their first day prepared so the new hire knows exactly what to expect.
Virtual and In-Person Introductions:
Introduce new hires both virtually and in-person to accommodate diverse working arrangements. Use video introductions for remote colleagues to foster a sense of community. If possible, provide a team or broader organization chart with headshots and titles for them to reference as they get to know the team.
Social Media Announcements:
If appropriate, share their arrival on social media or via a company intranet. Highlight their role and a fun fact about them to make the announcement engaging. Some cmpanies even do video introductions and circulate to the broader company or house on an intranet site to help co-workers get to know one another. Encourage your new hire to share their excitement on their own networks.
Team Lunch or Virtual Coffee:
Organize a team lunch or a virtual coffee break. This not only helps them meet their colleagues but also introduces them to the company culture in a relaxed setting.Share Company Culture and Values: Provide a comprehensive overview of the company’s culture, values, and “unspoken rules.” This helps them feel integrated and prevents any missteps early on.
Explain Their Impact:
Detail how their role contributes to the company’s broader goals. Understanding the significance of their work from day one boosts motivation and engagement.
Celebrating a new hire’s first day is crucial for setting the tone of their experience at the company. These practices not only make them feel valued but also integrate them into the team and culture, enhancing retention and productivity from the start. If you are hiring, our team can help.
