What should a new hire training program include?

Having a good training program is essential for making sure your new hire is prepared for their job, and making the new hire feel comfortable and welcome in your organization.

To ensure the best job training and guarantee high employee retention, you can include the following in your program::

An Employee Training Packet

On their first day, present the new employee with a training packet (either in paper or electronic form). Be sure to include the following in your packet:

• A schedule of the day’s training activities

• An overview of practical and technical skills they’ll need for the position

• A company directory with names, titles, and pictures

  After your packet is created, utilize these tips for maintaining an effective training packet:

• Update the manual often: be sure to check for changed job descriptions, system updates, changes in policy or procedure, etc.

• Make sure it’s interesting: if you choose an online employee packet, use multimedia if you can and always keep it visual.

• Don’t make it too long; the manual should be an accessible guide for employees – not a textbook.

Documentation

On the first day, you might have to fill out necessary new hire forms such as Form W-4. To make this process as quick as possible, try to make the priority of training should be getting to know the company, their job requirements, and their coworkers.If possible, have them fill out any possible forms before their first day. For example, [Zenefits](https://zenefits.com/] offers an onboarding feature that allows new hires to complete the new hire forms before their first day.

On-the-Job Training

Have the new hire train with existing employees – the new employee can complete a task themselves while the existing coworker helps and supervises. This gives the new hire hands-on experience while allowing them to build relationships with their coworkers.

Policy Training

Go over important company policies with the new hire – this can include harassment/discrimination policies, absence policies, smoking policies, etc. Be sure to check your state laws to see if any specific policy trainings are required. California, for example, requires all companies with more than 50 employees conduct sexual harassment training.

Enthusiasm

Make sure you’re enthusiastic about your new hire. You want them to feel like they’re welcome and that you look forward to working with them for the foreseeable future. There are many ways to show an employee your enthusiasm – a welcome letter from the CEO, a company t-shirt, a catered welcome lunch, etc. Let the employee know you’re happy they’re there!

Final Tip

New hire training programs are a chance not only to train your employee for their upcoming work, but also to make them feel welcome at your company. Make sure training is clear, comprehensive, and personal.

Helpful Links:

Employee Onboarding: One Chance for a Positive New Employee Experience – humanresources.com

Tips for Effective Employee Orientation – humanresources.com