Imagine it’s your first day at your new workplace, and at your arrival you have been given a direction to join a bunch of others writing the codes for an important software application in progress. With no proper guidance and clarity, you somehow got into it, just to realize later that you are not specialized in the software language used by the project team. This of course may be an embarrassing retrospect for any employee, but more than that for the organization.
without proper onboarding, new employees may take longer to become fully productive. They may make more mistakes and require more supervision, which can take up valuable time and resources for their managers and colleagues. Without a structured onboarding process, new employees may feel lost and disconnected from their colleagues and the company culture. They may not know who to turn to for help or guidance, and they may not have a clear understanding of their role and responsibilities within the organization. This can lead to confusion, frustration, and a sense of disengagement from the company.
So, what exactly is onboarding?
Well, a proper onboarding is like building a sturdy foundation for a house. You wouldn’t want to build a house on quicksand, that would be a disaster waiting to happen! Similarly, a new employee without proper onboarding is like a house without a solid foundation, they may look pretty on the outside, but their skills and knowledge will crumble under pressure.
Some people tend to think, “I know my job already, why do I need onboarding?” Well, my friend, your job is not just about technical skills. You also need to understand the company’s culture, work ethics, and hierarchy to succeed. A structured onboarding process will help you with that. You’ll learn about the company’s history, vision, and values, as well as its policies and procedures. You’ll get to know your colleagues and their roles within the company. You’ll be shown around the office and given a tour of the facilities. And you’ll be provided with the tools and resources you need to excel in your new role.
According to a study conducted by Brandon Hall Group, a structured onboarding process Improve employee retention rates by 82% and productivity by over 70% . Further, it helps new employee to integrate better into the team and work more effectively with their colleagues, ensure compliance with policies and procedures., and creates positive brand image and reputation for the organization.
A successful onboarding process can also make you feel more comfortable and confident in your new job. Starting a new job can be intimidating, but if you feel like you have a solid foundation to build on, you’ll be much more likely to succeed.
So, what should a proper onboarding process in India include? Here are a few key elements:
- A welcome kit: This could include things like a company t-shirt, a welcome note from your manager, and a list of essential resources.
Training: You’ll need to learn the technical skills required for your job, as well as any company-specific software or tools.- Orientation: You’ll need to learn about the company’s culture, mission, and values.
- Introductions: You’ll want to get to know your colleagues and their roles within the company.
- A tour: You’ll need to be shown around the office and given a tour of the facilities.
- Resources: You’ll need to be provided with access to the tools and resources you need to excel in your job.
Now, let’s take a look at some successful onboarding processes at some of the Indian companies:
1. TATA Consultancy Services (TCS)
TCS has a comprehensive onboarding process that includes orientation programs, induction sessions, and training programs. They also have an online portal called “iBegin” that helps new hires get up to speed with the company’s culture, policies, and procedures.
2. Flipkart
Flipkart, an Indian e-commerce giant, has a unique onboarding process that includes a buddy program. New hires are paired with a buddy, who is an experienced team member, to help them get familiar with their new role and the company’s culture. They also have regular feedback sessions to ensure that new hires are settling in well.
3. HCL Technologies
HCL has a “Early Career Program” also referred to as “TechBee” that provides a structured onboarding process for new graduates. The program includes classroom training, on-the-job training, and mentorship programs to help new hires learn and grow within the company.
So, to sum it up, structured and proper onboarding is essential to ensure that new employees don’t sink into quicksand, wilt like an unwatered plant, or crash and burn like a skydiver without a parachute. It’s the foundation, fertilizer, and safety net that sets them up for success in their new role.
Authored by: Anjaneya Varma
Trainee – HR & OD Practices
Talent Abundance HR Solutions
