Here’s a comprehensive new hire checklist that will help you get your latest hires up to scratch.
1. Create an employment agreement.
The very first thing necessary for hiring someone, even before they’re hired, is to create an employment agreement (where permitted by law). This needs to be an overview of the company and the terms that the new employee agrees to by accepting the job. The legal names of the employee and the company need to be included, as well as the agreed-upon compensation and benefits, the expected work schedule, confidentiality or non-compete clauses, and information on performance reviews. This agreement may or may not need to be signed by both the employer and employee based on the type of employment (1099 or W2) and the laws within employee's and employer's state(s).
2. Verify any licenses or certifications they need to work.
For some positions, legal requirements state that certain employees must hold specific licenses or certifications to work – for example, a radiologist technologist needs a certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), or someone working in a warehouse may need a forklift certification from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Before your new employee starts work, verify that they hold any necessary licenses and that they are up to date.
3. Announce the new hire to current employees.
After the agreement is signed and the hire is official, let your team know! Send out a company-wide email or memo to let them know that they have a new team member, and that they should get to know them and make them feel welcome.
4. Get their workspace and equipment ready.
In preparation for your new employee’s first day, set up their workspace with everything they need to get started in their new position. Make sure their email is set up, and make sure they have access to any files or records they will need. If they’re coming to work in an office, make sure they have a computer, keyboard, mouse, phone, etc.; if they are starting a remote position, send them any equipment they’ll need before their first day.
5. Have them fill out any forms necessary for them to pay taxes, as well as receive pay and benefits.
On the new employee’s first day, they need to get the housekeeping out of the way – this means that they need to fill out any forms necessary, including a W-4, direct deposit form, and any forms related to enrolling in benefits. This is also a great time to collect emergency contact information.
6. Make them feel welcome.
You don’t want to hire someone and then immediately leave them to their own devices – this may make them feel deserted or isolated. Take the time to introduce them to their new coworkers, give them a tour of the premises and get them comfortable with their surroundings and the other employees. You may even want to organize a team lunch or new hire celebration to give them a chance to meet everyone in a more social setting.
7. Use the buddy system.
Assigning a mentor or buddy will help your new employee acclimate to the company culture and will give them a friendly face to go to with any questions they may have. This can help greatly with employee retention and work satisfaction.
8. Ask them for feedback.
The most important step is making sure your new employee is acclimating well and is satisfied with their new position! Make sure they know they are welcome to come to you with any issues, concerns, or feedback they may have so you can ensure that everything is moving as smoothly as possible.
Happy hiring!
