Employee orientation is part of a long-term investment in a new employee. It is an initial process that provides easy access to basic information, programs and services, gives clarification and allows new employees to take an active role in their organization.

• Introduce new employees to their new environment
• Make new employees feel welcome and comfortable
• Retain a pool of new, capable employees

Benefits:

• Establish clear standards that help reduce disputes and limit liability
• Promote consistent management
• Inform new employees of the company’s policies
• Demonstrate a commitment to equal treatment of personnel
• Provide protection from claims of discrimination and sexual harassment

In some organizations an employee handbook is available to all employees. The content of the handbook covers the key topics covered in an orientation session for new employees.

What should employee orientation programs include?

An orientation program helps the employee understand their assigned duties, terms and conditions of employment as well as the organizational culture. It provides the following information:

Welcome employee to company

Orientation to business:

• history
• mission statement
• goals and objectives
• organizational structure, e.g. own job description and relationship of position to other positions
• future plans

Company policies and procedures, for example:

• dress code
• reporting procedures
• smoking restrictions
• expense claims

Legislation

Safety procedures

Emergency procedures

• operating telephone system,
• who to call for repairs

Explanation of benefit package

• group insurance,
• sick leave,
• holidays

Tour facility and work areas:

• introduce employees
• identify amenities, e.g. washrooms, shower
• explain emergency procedures
• identify safety equipment

Describe job responsibilities and performance expectations

• review job description
• review product standards
• discuss applicable legislation
• provide manuals for operating equipment

Finalize employment documentation