An Admins Journey into Onboarding

Onboarding, the crucial process of integrating new employees into an organisation, sets the stage for success in any role. As a new executive assistant, I’ve experienced firsthand the profound impact of a well-structured onboarding process, especially in a fast-paced corporate environment. This process is not just for welcoming permanent staff and recent graduates; it is equally essential for all new hires, including temporary staff. The significance of thorough onboarding cannot be overstated, as neglecting it can lead to decreased employee retention and diminished productivity.

Recent research shows that organisations with strong onboarding processes can improve employee retention rates by up to 82%. This highlights the importance of my employer’s investment in a robust onboarding program. Whether in a large corporation or a small startup without a dedicated HR department, prioritising onboarding is vital for long-term success.

In competitive job markets, where the recruitment for roles like mine is fierce, a seamless onboarding experience is crucial to retaining top talent. The support and guidance provided during the onboarding helped me adapt seamlessly to my new role and surroundings.

On my first day as a Junior Admin, I was warmly greeted by a friendly Office Manager / Receptionist who handed me a well-prepared welcome package. This package included essential information about the company and my schedule for the day. This approach not only made me feel valued but also ensured a smooth transition into my role.

Here are some key onboarding considerations that I found particularly beneficial throughout my career:

Preparation is Key: My workspace was ready, all necessary software and hardware were set up, and paperwork was organised before my arrival. This level of preparation demonstrated the company’s professionalism and made me feel welcomed from the outset.

Personalised Welcome Packages: The personalised notes and company braded items in my welcome package made a significant positive impression on me.

Utilise Video Content: Companies who used an orientation video that introduced me to the company’s history, culture, and office protocols got extra points. This visual introduction was engaging and informative, helping me feel more connected to the company. It was always something I could go back to for reference.

Gamification Techniques: Interactive quizzes and challenges with other new starters were part of the learning process, making it engaging and helped me retain important information. It was also a great way to meet other newbies to the company.

Clear Expectations and Mentorship Programs: The clarity in performance expectations and career opportunities was outlined from the start. Additionally, being paired with an experienced mentor was invaluable for understanding the organisational culture and navigating my new role effectively.

Regular Check-ins and Social Integration Events: Regular feedback sessions and social events helped me integrate into the team and build connections, enhancing my job satisfaction.

Continuous Learning Opportunities: The encouragement to participate in ongoing training and development has been crucial for my professional growth.

By focusing on these elements, my onboarding experiences have not only been smooth but also empowering, setting me up for success in my new roles. Remember, the effort put into onboarding new hires can significantly impact their long-term success and satisfaction within the company.

We love to hear from our community. What tips, advice or strategies do you use for onboarding admins in your company?