As more and more companies shift towards remote working, hiring processes have evolved as well. Remote hiring has a slew of benefits, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. One of the biggest challenges is onboarding. How do you onboard new employees when they can’t physically show up at the office? Here are some best practices for successful onboarding:

1. Develop an Onboarding Plan 📝

Before the new employee starts, it’s helpful to have a plan in place for their onboarding process. This should include a step-by-step guide to their first few weeks, their responsibilities, and any training they will need. Creating a plan will help both you and the employee feel prepared and organized for the first days of work.

A document with a checklist and instructions

2. Communicate Frequently and Clearly 📞

Regular communication between the manager and the new employee is crucial during onboarding. Make sure to schedule regular check-ins to discuss their progress, answer any questions, and provide feedback. It’s important to over-communicate in the beginning and make sure the employee feels supported and informed throughout the onboarding process.

A person talking on the phone with a speech bubble showing clear communication

3. Set Clear Expectations 🎯

It’s important to set clear expectations for the new employee’s responsibilities, the company culture, and the overall goals of the company. This will help them understand their role and responsibilities from the get-go. It’s also helpful to outline performance metrics for their role, so they know what’s expected of them in terms of their performance.

A hand drawing a roadmap with clear directions

4. Provide Tools and Resources 🛠️

Since the new employee won’t be in the office, it’s important to provide them with all the necessary tools and resources to do their job remotely. This includes hardware, software, and access to necessary documents and databases. Ensure that everything is set up before the employee’s first day, and that they know how to use everything.

A person using a computer with a variety of tools and resources around them

5. Foster a Sense of Connection and Belonging 🤝

Since the new employee will be working remotely, it’s important to ensure they still feel connected to the company culture and their team. Hold virtual team-building events and introduce them to team members. Encourage team members to reach out and make themselves available for virtual lunches or coffee chats.

A team of people standing in a circle in a virtual meeting

By following these best practices for successful onboarding, you can ensure your new remote employees feel welcomed, supported and prepared for success from the get-go.

An image of a remote team smiling and working together