Dear Workforce
Q: What's the Secret to Productive yet Cost-Effective Induction of New Employees for a Globally Dispersed Workforc
I have been asked to design an induction program for all new recruits across all our branches (in various states). What makes the most sense: to have all new employees go through induction at our corporate office, or to dispatch someone from our corporate office to travel to the various locations to conduct inductions? New employees frequently join our company, and on varying dates—so how could we devise a cost-effective program?
A:
Dear Looking:
To minimize cost and maximize the effectiveness of the orientation I would suggest the following approach:
1. Identify orientation content that can be delivered via the Web or self-paced reading/learning.
2. Identify content that needs to be delivered in person (e.g., company history, values, specific requirements of the role, performance expectations and culture).
3. Train local line operators (not HR) on key components that need to be delivered in person. This has the added benefit of providing some line accountability and visibility during orientation, which new recruits will perceive as positive.
4. Leverage WebEx and other interactive online sessions to deliver information on day-to-day topics, such as benefits and submitting expense reports.
Monitor the overall effectiveness of the program by asking new hires for feedback immediately after the orientation program. Follow this with another round of employee questions about six months later, when they have been on the job for a while and can better assess the program's effectiveness.
SOURCE: Garrett Sheridan, Axiom Partners, Chicago, June 29, 2007
LEARN MORE: A previous Workforce Management article, "Running the Global Recruiting Machine," discusses the recruiting/onboarding practices of ClientLogic. Another view takes issue with the traditional orientation model used by many companies.
The information contained in this article is intended to provide useful information on the topic covered, but should not be construed as legal advice or a legal opinion. Also remember that state laws may differ from the federal law.
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