Czaro Strategic Communications

Someone has an interview and then a second. A job offer is extended and they accept. Then what happens?

After the candidate accepts a position it could be two weeks to a month until their first day at the new job. During this time, new hires worry if they made the right decision and if their new co-workers will like them. They get concerned about what their first day will be like and will they feel welcome.

As a leader, it’s your responsibility to on-board the new hire quickly and properly. That process can take place before the new hire ever shows up for work.

Here are a few pre-boarding actions to consider that will help make the newest member of your team feel appreciated.

• Having the team sign a piece of paper with welcome wishes is great for their first day, but have you considered mailing it to the new hire before they start? Or have everyone on the team send separate e-mails welcoming the people on board.
• Encourage the new hire to update their LinkedIn profile before starting. Everyone in their network will get the update and more congratulations will come their way.
• Announce the new hire on Twitter and Facebook using your company’s account (depending on the size of your company). Then, each member of your team can re-Tweet (RT) the message to their networks.
• If you plan to have business cards, order them in advance so the cards are there on the first day of work. This provides instant identity for the new hire.
• Send a hand-written note to the new hire’s spouse or partner stating how excited you are to have hired the best. If your budget allows send a fruit basket, cookie bouquet or movie night package.
• If it’s going to be closer to a month before the new hire starts, offer to meet them one-on-one for coffee or lunch. Let them know you’re excited and can’t wait for them to start. They might have additional questions they forgot to ask or they might just enjoy the face time.

Take advantage of these pre-boarding tips to make the new hire feel welcome. When the new hire arrives for their first day of work, they’ll already feel like part of the team.

What suggestions do you have for pre-boarding a new hire?