Starting a new job can be exciting — but it’s not without its challenges. From navigating new workplace norms to figuring out how to use new tools and processes, there’s a lot to learn in the first few days, weeks, and months. What’s the best way to help a new employee get up to speed?
How Much Should New Hires Focus on Building Peer Relationships?
It’s an important component of effective onboarding — but too much can backfire.
August 23, 2022
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Summary.
From formal mentorship and training to networking events and social activities, there are many approaches to onboarding new employees. But how much of a role should relationship building among a cohort of new hires play in this critical process? In their recent research, the authors found that focusing on helping new hires build connections with each other can help them adjust to their new workplace faster, contribute work sooner, and stay at the company longer — but when taken too far, it can also impede their ability to grow and advance. In light of this Goldilocks effect, the authors offer three suggestions for managers and HR leaders: Facilitate meaningful connections between new hires, encourage newcomers to balance networking and learning about work tasks, and track key onboarding metrics to ensure you can identify and address any shortcomings in new hires’ relationship building or their tactical skills development.