By Linda Olejniczak, courtesy of SBAM Approved Partner ASE
Work from anywhere, distributed workforce, remote work…whatever you call it, there will likely be some challenges in such areas as payroll, time zones, virtual interviews, and onboarding.
It is critical that you are set up to support and manage all new hires as normally and consistently as possible, whether they are remote or in-office. Onboarding is not over after the first day on the job. Here are some tips to onboard and manage new hires remotely:
- Ensure new employees have the hardware, software, and office supplies needed to do their job.
- Ensure new hires understand how to use essential communication tools, online meeting solutions, and file-sharing applications.
- Help new hires understand your departmental culture.
- Challenge supervisors to set specific goals and expectations for their new hires.
- Arrange frequent meetings with your team members and other key employees.
- Schedule frequent calls to touch base.
- Set up a mentor program for your new hire.
Employees may have questions about the basic operations of employment, and they may not know who or how to ask. Consider setting up a time to check in remotely with new employees to allow them to ask any questions they have. Answers to questions such as “When is payday?”, “Does direct deposit start right away, or will you be mailing me a paper check?”, and “Do my medical benefits start immediately?” are very important to new employees.
Make sure new employees knows who to contact for more information about their job. While working remotely they may not feel as comfortable reaching out with these questions as they would if they were physically in the office. If they are clear on the details, it will help them feel welcomed and supported by your agency during this stressful time. By using these steps as guidance, you can help your new employees get acclimated and thrive in their new work environment.