Getting Oriented In The Office

Starting work for a new company usually feels more than a little overwhelming - less because of the job, itself, and more about not knowing a single soul, where to find the loo and whether you're incurring anyone's wrath by using their special coffee mug. Orientation programmes are commonly overlooked when employees start a new job but, as Lawrence Wordon, MC of Kelly Recruitment explains, a well thought-through orientation plan plays a huge part of making new staff-members feel comfortable, confident and valued. Plus, having happy employees dramatically reduces staff turnover and, as a result, saves the company large amounts of money in recruitment fees. Wordon gives some tips on how to make newbies feel at home.

Put Relationships First	Don't put paperwork at the centre of your orientation programme. Instead, add a personal touch by assigning 'mentors' to each new employee so they can put a face to the organisation they are now representing, and start to build interpersonal relationships with their team members. 'Learning the ins-and-out's of the business through colleagues' experience is always more helpful for new employees, as this gives them a special insight into the organisation and its strengths,' says Wordon.
Put Faces To Names
Upfront Info
Right Foot Forward

Author: Susan Hayden