Why is Onboarding Important

Author: Halley Harrelson Published: November 2022

What is onboarding?

Onboarding is the process by which new hires are integrated into the organization. This process includes activities that allow new employees to complete an initial new-hire orientation process. It also helps them learn about the business and its structure, culture, mission, values, and vision. Onboarding is done by the employer, a member of the human resources staff, or a supervisor. Sometimes all three of these people will contribute to onboarding. They will do this by introducing the new employee to different aspects of the company.

Onboarding is important because it helps acclimate employees to their new roles, the company’s philosophies, and what the company offers. Onboarding engages employees, which will create workers that are committed to the company’s success. It helps retain new hires by making them feel like they are part of a team.

According to studies, one in ten people have left a company because of a poor onboarding experience, and 37% percent of employees said their manager did not play a critical role in their onboarding experience.

Without proper onboarding procedures, there could be an increase in employee turnover and loss of productivity. In addition, this decrease in employee engagement costs companies significant amounts of money yearly.

With proper onboarding procedures, 87% of new employees are less likely to leave the company. This means they are five times less likely to go compared to those who did not receive a proper onboarding experience. With a great onboarding experience, 69% of employees will likely stay for at least three years.