1. Before they start
Send the new employee a pack of information to give them a basic understanding of your business. This can go with the letter offering them the job. The letter should include the main details of their contract – for example, place of work, job title, hours and pay — so there are no misunderstandings at the outset.
2. When they start
Line up a planned programme to explain who’s who in your business and its aims, the performance and behaviour you expect from the employee, company rules and what happens if they are broken, and health and safety. It is also worth checking the new-starter is clear about their terms and conditions of employment, particularly details of any probationary period.
The induction does not have to be limited to their first day – it may spread over several days or weeks, depending on how it ties in with training for the job. In days ahead, outline possible future opportunities for development, training and routes for promotion, so they fully understand their place in the organisation.
3. Tailor the induction to suit the new employee
Someone who is fresh out of university is likely to need a different induction to a new employee who has extensive experience with other companies, or someone returning to the world of work after a long absence.
4. Give them a buddy
After the induction, or in the course of it if it’s spread over a few weeks, they will still have questions. Choose a member of staff as the new employee’s mentor or “buddy” to help answer them. The buddy will also be a point of contact to further develop the employee’s understanding of the business and make them feel they belong. These are steps along the way towards getting the best out of your new employee.
Also, the new starter won’t want the embarrassment of forgetting names, so make it easy for them: Give them an aide memoire with job titles, names, phone numbers, email addresses and photos.
5. Don’t forget the little things
Cover the small details such as dress code, car parking and canteen facilities. And let them know where they can find toilets, washing and first aid facilities and drinking water. It all helps settle them in.
By David Webb, part of the team at Acas communicating advice on workplace relations to employers and employees. For more information go to www.acas.org.uk/stepbystep
