New Hire Onboarding Checklist

For many small businesses there's not a formal onboarding process in place. That's understandable! However, you have the power to craft a well meaningful process that builds trust, reduces anxiety and helps new team members feel supported from the start.

Before Day One

• Prepare access and equipment-set up email accounts, access to internal tools and devices such as Slack, JIRA and CRM.
• Send a welcome e-mail that outlines the first weeks' agenda. This will help ease nerves and provide a structured blueprint.
• Collaborate (if relevant) with your PEO or payroll vendor to collect tax documentation, I-9 employment verification and benefits setup.

On Day One

• Welcome them personally, whether it's in person with lunch or $25 DoorDash gift card to order lunch if you're fully remote.
• Connect them with teammates and assign an onboarding buddy
• Share your company’s mission, values and long term goals -gives context to their role.
• Clarify expectations: outline responsibilities, training checkpoints and success criteria.
• Walk through compliance steps and benefits enrollment.
• Set up 15 minute one-on-one intro chats with tenured colleagues to kick start relationships.

During the First Week

• Conduct hands on training tailored to their role.
• Introduce manageable early objectives to build momentum.
• Provide internal guides and prompt ongoing questions.
• Schedule a brief 10 minute reoccurring weekly check-in to address hiccups and celebrate early wins.

From Day 30 to 90

• Continue development through shadowing and advanced training.
• Plan formal check-ins at 30, 60 and 90 days to assess progress and align expectations.
• Gather constructive feedback regarding their onboarding experience through SurveyMonkey.
• Integrate them into longer term projects and cultural initiatives.

This step by step approach not only gives new hires structure and clarity but also showcases that you’re committed to their success-and with good reason. Onboarding done right sets the tone for long term engagement and productivity.

Why a Planned Onboarding Process Pays Dividends

According to research from Walden University, a thoughtful onboarding process directly correlates with greater employee engagement, higher retention and improved performance over time.