Kim Boltenhouse
WRIT 320-Q2WW-W14
Cynthia Johanek
03/09/2014
Abstract The communication process of orientation with new employees has long been a difficult phase in the employment process. The field of human resources has recently deemed Onboarding as an effective way to address this phase of employment. The methods for communication with onboarding are not only for the employee but also for all individuals involved in the organization. Strategically through the use of various methods of communication, new hires receive essential materials for their job such as corporate culture, technology information, and company processes. This process lays …show more content…
“Top employers recognize the trends associated with new hire orientation and retention” (Reese, 2005). Today’s Human Resources use onboarding procedures like a blueprint to the company for communicating with new employees. Communication within a company can always be a problem. However, with new employees it can be especially difficult. Changing the ways a new employee is communicated with have a positive effect on the employee as well as the company. An employee will remember their first few days at a new job. They remember how people responded to them when they arrived. They will remember if their workspace was ready with a working phone, the computer is set up for them, and even the welcome items on their desk, not just with the typical HR packet of paperwork. These first initial days of work will start to set the tone for their attitude about the new job. The level of effort put forth by the employer to welcome the new hire over the months to follow could possibly determine their length of stay and level of productivity. Benefits for the onboarding process extend far past the typical orientation programs especially when used along with best practices for the …show more content…
The article in Small Business Chronicles states “Good communication shouldn’t be limited to a single mechanism...”. (Duggan, n.d.) The utilization of methods can vary, use of written memos, verbal presentations, and multimedia are just a few ways to communicate to achieve higher retention. Written materials could include the use of email, memos, journals, and notes. Setting up a buddy system to help them adjust to fitting into the culture, can be part of verbal communication. Use technology to make the transition easier with videos, training and programs of work. Make it fun; use games like scavenger hunts, bingo, and other interactive ways of learning to help with retention of material. Whatever means is used make sure to keep the communication as simple as possible for the first few days. Also, make sure that after the first few weeks are over that informal feedback continues. This might include periodic discussions about productivity, assignments, and the new employees comfort level. During this time, conduct more formal feedback sessions, these sessions should include documented reviews of performance, and joint goals developed. Each session of communication should have clearly written and outlined. This allows the employee to have concise goals and expectations for their work. The manager needs to note on the career development plans for future opportunities, such as