More and more office spaces are gearing towards a hybrid future. Virtual hiring, remote work options, shared spaces, and flexible schedules are predicted to grow in the post-pandemic future.
Employers have realized that the shift in workforce needs is here to stay. Per the PwC’s US Remote Work Survey, 38% of organizations agree their efforts for coaching and onboarding new hires have improved from pre-COVID-19.
As opposed to the past in-person onboarding, this change requires you to attend video interviews and virtually reach out to your mentor or supervisor in the lack of physical space.
Here are three practical tips for you to successfully take on your next virtual onboarding experience:
Get your at-home office space right
Think beyond the first week of getting hired. Create a separate nook in your home that can serve as your workspace. Ensure there are minimal distractions so attention is not taken away from your responsibilities.
Most importantly, keep all the necessary things within your reach, such as a notepad, pen, pencils, etc. This way, you can avoid fumbling around when you need them and remain focused.
You wouldn’t want to be interrupted or disconnected while in a virtual meeting or training session. So, check your technology:
Laptop or computer
Strong Wi-Fi connection
Quality headset, webcam, and microphone
Comfortable chair and desk
Other items like chargers, batteries, power banks, etc.
Your remote work involves receiving and sharing videos, PDF documents, training materials, and other files. Save them all in specific folders on your computer and organize them with consistent file or folder names so that you can find them easily.
Make a connection with the HR Specialist
Most likely, you will be assigned a manager or an HR specialist to teach you the ropes. Ask them about the prerequisites you need to have on your computer. For instance, you may have to install relevant software, set up a virtual private network (VPN), or use company login credentials.
We're moving into a new normal where teleconferencing is to be expected. Companies have specific tools for this such as Zoom or chat programs like Slack, and may require you to do the same. Also, find out if the company has a customized digital calendar to track project deadlines.
These one-on-one interactions will build a relationship that will help ease you into your new, unfamiliar work environment. Establishing rapport with your supervisor will definitely help you in the long run. Even if this point of contact is an experienced colleague in a similar position, your efforts will show how committed you are.
Don’t shy away from asking questions
Remote onboarding presents unique challenges, making it difficult to understand your responsibilities. Employers encourage new hires to connect with other team members to get insights into the company culture to avoid productivity gaps.
Observe the team interactions, how they collaborate, handle project timeframes, and manage workflows. The sooner you catch on, the quicker you can efficiently settle into your role.
Familiarize yourself with your coworkers, preferably those with the same duties, and ask for help when required. Find out their perspective and how you would handle it. This will help you develop meaningful connections with your team, as well as showing you are open and capable of receiving constructive feedback.
Each in-house process for virtual onboarding is slightly different, but you can navigate it with ease by being transparent, open, and attentive. Connect with niche recruitersat Per Sé Group to explore the roles ideal for your core competencies.