First impressions matter. A great onboarding sets the tone:
Pre-Arrival (Before Day 1)
- Equipment Ready: Laptop, accounts, access
- Welcome Package: Swag, handbook, team info
- Paperwork Complete: Digital where possible
- Team Communication: Introduction email
- First Week Planned: Clear schedule
Week 1: Integration
- Day 1: Welcome, setup, team lunch
- Technical Setup: Development environment, tools
- Culture Immersion: Values, practices, history
- Quick Wins: First small contribution
- Buddy Assignment: Dedicated mentor
First Month: Ramping Up
- Progressive Responsibility: Increasing ownership
- Regular Check-ins: Manager and buddy
- Learning Path: Technical and domain knowledge
- Social Integration: Team events, coffee chats
- Feedback Loop: Two-way communication
First Quarter: Full Productivity
- First Review: Performance and cultural fit
- Goal Setting: Clear objectives
- Development Plan: Growth trajectory
- Team Contribution: Leading initiatives
- Culture Champion: Living values