Have someone walk the new starter through the induction
Whoever is usually responsible for running the induction of the new employee should still do so. You can use video calling programs such as Zoom, Google Hangouts, Skype. It’s an important time to see the “whites of someone’s eyes” when welcoming them and inducing them into your business.
Give them the right tools
Make sure you provide the new starter with all the tools they need to succeed in the role. That may include equipment, access to all the relevant systems and people.
Don’t skip on workplace health and safety training
WHS training is still essential for every new hire. It’s your duty of care as an employer to provide the worker with a safe workplace, even if that is in their home. Your induction training for remote workers should include training on setting up a safe workplace in the home and you be asking the worker to do a self-evaluation checklist to confirm their work area is safe, including a photo of their set up.
Check in regularly with your new hire
Communication is key. In can be a bit lonely working remotely, especially for those that have not had the opportunity to build relationships with the organisation as yet. Encourage colleagues to schedule time regularly to check in with each other via a video call whether that be for a more formal work update or just for some weekly banter.
Inclusion is key
If you normally present new hirers with a branded shirt and a bag full of swag, make sure you send this to them at home. If you normally present a reward or prize for meeting their first sales target etc, make sure you still do this. It’s important you make things as normal as possible for all.
As always, you may need to make some adjustments to your onboarding. However, it is so important for the success of the new hire and your organisation that you still do this properly.
