How to Effectively Onboard New Remote Employees

Onboarding new employees can be challenging, especially when those employees are working remotely. Having an effective onboarding process is key to ensuring remote workers feel engaged, productive, and connected to the company culture from day one. Here are some tips for successfully onboarding new remote employees.

Set Up Their Tech

One of the first steps is getting remote workers set up with all the tech tools and accounts they’ll need to do their job. This includes setting up their email address, communication platforms like Slack or Microsoft Teams, VPN access, software logins, and more. Send detailed instructions on how to access each platform and do test runs to ensure everything is working properly. Also, make sure they have the appropriate hardware if the company is providing it, like a laptop. Getting the tech right from the start ensures productivity.

Create an Onboarding Checklist

Creating a comprehensive onboarding checklist that covers everything the new hire needs to know, do, and have access to in their first week and month is crucial. This should include training schedules, meetings with team members, reviewing policies and procedures, and any HR paperwork. Share this checklist with the new remote employee so they know what to expect. And be available to answer any questions along the way. You can use org chart templates for this.

Schedule Virtual Introductions

One downside of remote work is missing those organic interactions that happen in an office. That’s why it’s important to facilitate virtual introductions between the new remote worker and their manager, coworkers, and cross-functional partners they’ll work with. Use video conferencing to put faces to names. And encourage team members to reach out personally to welcome the new hire. Consider scheduling social time like a virtual coffee chat as well.

Assign a Buddy

In addition to introductions, give the new remote worker a go-to person who they can ask questions of and help them navigate their first few weeks. This buddy should check in regularly and be available to explain processes, tools, and anything else that may come up. Providing the new hire with a buddy gives them a resource and ally as they acclimate to the team and role.

Send a Care Package

Mail the new remote employee a care package with company swag, treats, and a handwritten welcome note. This is a great way to get them excited about their new role and make them feel special. Include any hardware, business cards, or other useful items they’ll need at home. Getting fun mail is always enjoyable, so it starts the experience off on a positive and personal note.

Host Remote Onboarding Events

During a remote worker’s first week, consider hosting dedicated onboarding events virtually to welcome them. This could include a video call welcome party with their team, a virtual lunch with the CEO, or online social events to meet co-workers. New hires want to feel part of the culture, so facilitating inclusive activities can help them connect despite the distance.

Provide Training Opportunities

Give new remote workers opportunities to learn. This could include virtual training sessions, prerecorded videos, webinars, and online courses. Make sure they understand company processes, tools, products, and industry knowledge. Providing ongoing learning opportunities allows remote workers to get up to speed quickly. It also shows the company’s willingness to invest in their success with proper training.

Set Clear Goals and Expectations

Managers should work with new remote hires to define clear goals and expectations for their roles. Setting objectives for their first 30, 60, and 90 days provides direction and gives new remote workers something to focus on. Regular check-ins on progress and performance allows for feedback and supports their growth. Clear goals set remote workers up for long-term achievement.

Onboarding new remote workers effectively takes dedication, attention to detail, and thoughtful communication. But putting in the effort up front ensures remote employees feel excited about their new roles, engaged with coworkers, and set up for success. They’ll be productive and positively contributing team members right from day one.