A positive and effective onboarding experience is critical for all new employees as it helps keep employees engaged, gives employees the best chance of success and improves long-term retention rates. However, while most companies focus on onboarding new employees, many of those same companies spend far less time, if any, onboarding new managers.
It seems that when outside managers are brought in, leaders may assume that managers are managers, and they don’t require much in the way of onboarding and should just get stuck in after a quick orientation and tour. The truth is, every new manager should be properly onboarded to prepare for success as a strong onboarding program is important to help lessen the learning curve and set new managers up to achieve their goals from day one.
1. Onboarding starts early
Remember that onboarding begins before a candidate is even selected as leaders must create clear job descriptions that leave little room for assumptions. Be clear about the goals, expectations, and responsibilities of the position.
2. Onboarding in the interview
Throughout the interviewing phase, it is important to have honest discussions about both the positive and the negatives of the job as candidates for management positions should have a clear understanding of the challenges they may face in the position so that there are no surprises. This includes dynamics of the team that they will be inheriting.
Ask good probing questions to determine whether or not there is an alignment of values with the candidate. There is little value in hiding company culture or misleading candidates about that culture and be clear about the values that make the company a success.
3. Create A Welcoming Environment
Don’t make the new manager wander aimlessly through the building or sit alone in the reception when they arrive so make sure the hiring manager arrives first. New managers want to make a good impression, and they know that all eyes will be on them from the moment they step through the door.
Make a good impression by having their desk ready with all computer logins and email addresses tested and ready.
4. Plan their day
Schedule team meetings / coffee / lunch with their key team members and be sure that a team meeting is also scheduled to introduce the manager to the entire team. Take them on a tour, pointing out everything from restrooms to resources that they will regularly need.
Make sure you have an orientation for new hires. An orientation is where you talk about your company’s history and goals, as well as how your new hire fits into the company.
5. Setting the Right Expectations
The manager should meet with his direct supervisor early on the first day, reviewing responsibilities and expectations for the first 30, 60 and 90 days.
Most business leaders knows that onboarding is essential for employees, but somehow managers often don’t get the same treatment. Take time to develop a strong onboarding program to help both new professionals and new managers get acclimated quickly, and improve the chances that they will make your company their professional home for years to come.
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