All onboard!

Onboarding - when does it start, or perhaps more importantly, when does it end? What does the term "onboarding" actually cover? What does it mean to people? Does it have a different meaning to different people?

There's many questions that arise when discussing the subject and it's certainly a hot topic at the moment and we're happily engaged in some exciting discussions and working on some even more exciting projects.

Arguably there's some simple thought processes that can be applied - most notably considerations around Process, Platform and Content.

But the interesting thing for us has been working with our clients to develop a structured approach to their onboarding requirements and ensuring that what we deliver is an "experience" for the end user, moreover simply a box ticking exercise that shoves something in-front of a new hire on day one.

There's lot's of interesting angles that need to be considered, such as...

How do we accommodate those that are promoted internally - new in role - as well as those that are new to the organisation?

Who has a direct impact on the experience of a new hire - the line manager, a buddy, HR, the PA to name but a few - how can we support them?

What are the points of difference for those that simply manage themselves, those with responsibilities for a team and those at the very top of an organsiation?

There's information and policy that's relevant to all - but how do we personalise the experience based on the individual?

What are the appropriate mediums of communication  - what systems and platforms are best suited and at what point in time are they most appropriate?

What is it that people really want and how can we find out?

Some of the solutions we're working on at the moment begin to answer these questions and many more - and there's some really exciting and engaging alternatives we're currently working on.

If you find yourself considering your own organisations induction and onboarding capabilities - and want a chat to explore some clever thinking on the subject - then we'd love to spend time with you.