Is your onboarding process optimised for today’s digital generations?
The onboarding process has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, becoming more digital and accommodating remote work preferences. For Gen Z, who are digital natives, this shift is not only welcomed but expected.
Generation Z (or Gen Z) are the generation of people born between the mid 1990’s to early 2010’s. They now make up around 19% of the Australian workforce, making them the largest generation in the job market. It is important that we set this generation, and future generations, up for success by ensuring the onboarding process has evolved with them.
Leverage Technology: Utilise onboarding software and platforms that streamline the process. Tools like Trello, Asana, and Slack can help manage tasks, track progress, and facilitate communication.
Interactive Training Modules: Create engaging and interactive training modules that can be accessed online. Incorporate videos, quizzes, and elements to make learning more enjoyable.
Virtual Welcome Kits: Send virtual welcome kits with essential information about the company, team, and role. Include links to important resources, company policies, and contact information.
Mentorship Programs: Pair new hires with mentors who can guide them through the onboarding process. Virtual mentorship sessions can help build connections and provide support.
Regular Check-ins: Schedule regular check-ins to address any questions or concerns. Use video calls to create a more personal connection and ensure new hires feel supported.
Navigating remote work
The majority of Gen Z have entered the workforce digitally and have only ever known remote working. Many employees nowadays opt to work remotely in some capacity. It's crucial to create an environment that supports remote work while maintaining team cohesion. This is one of the biggest challenges we see with onboarding and remote working - building culture within the team and setting expectations.
Here are some things to consider when managing remote employees:
Flexible work hours
This is not new information however, it can often be overlooked. Remote work for most employees is the opportunity to get that elusive work-life balance. Consider whether it is essential for your employees to work the same exact hours, or could there be a flexible start/finish time?
Giving your employees some control and ownership over their day can build trust and job satisfaction and in turn, enhance productivity.
Collaborative tools
Communication is key to any good working relationship, and technology has evolved to facilitate communication with remote employees. Investing in tools like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Google Workspace will aid with collaboration. Ensure that all team members are comfortable using these tools and embed them as part of the culture.
Virtual team building
Thinking about what virtual team-building exercises will work for your team will be up to you, however, team building is essential for any highly functioning team. Again, this can often get overlooked especially in hybrid teams.
Activities like online games, virtual coffee breaks, and team challenges can help build relationships. Fostering a sense of belonging can also help new employees feel part of the team.
Clear expectations
Do not assume that new employees know “the basics”. Set clear expectations for work hours, communication, deliverables and dress code. Providing guidelines on how to stay connected and collaborate effectively will ensure everyone is working from the same place.
Supportive culture
Cultivate a supportive culture that values work-life balance. Encourage employees to take breaks and prioritise their well-being.
Working excessive unpaid overtime can be a common problem with remote employees. Especially for new employees, it can be difficult to split work and personal life when your physical environment doesn’t change. Creating a culture that prioritises well-being will help limit burnout and set employees up for success.
Communication is key
Communication is key to engaging and onboarding any employee, however, communication styles have changed in the digital era. Adapting your communication strategy for the digital generations of today means utilising different channels, technology and ways of communicating effectively.
Here are some tips for effective communication, particularly with Gen Z employees:
Use Multiple Channels: Gen Z prefers a variety of communication channels, including email, instant messaging, and social media. Use a mix of these channels to reach them effectively.
Be Transparent: Gen Z values transparency and authenticity. Be open about company goals, challenges, and successes. Share regular updates and encourage feedback.
Provide Constructive Feedback: Offer constructive feedback that is specific, actionable, and timely. Use positive reinforcement to motivate and encourage growth.
Encourage Collaboration: Foster a collaborative environment where ideas and opinions are valued. Encourage open discussions and brainstorming sessions.
Leverage Visual Content: Gen Z is highly visual, so incorporate visual content like infographics, videos, and presentations into your communication strategy.
Understanding Gen Z
Gen Z’s work ethic is often discussed, with some viewing it as different from previous generations. However, these differences should not be looked at as negative but rather indicative of a new working style and can be harnessed to improve productivity, collaboration and drive purpose in a team.
Gen Z is highly tech-savvy and innovative. They are quick to adopt new technologies and offer creative solutions.
They are driven by purpose and meaning, seeking opportunities to make a positive impact and contribute to social causes.
Continuous learning and development are also important, as they look for growth opportunities and value employers who invest in their professional development.
They thrive in collaborative and inclusive environments, valuing diversity and inclusion.
In summary
Approaching these differences with an open mind and avoiding unconscious bias can have a positive impact on your team. Recognising that Gen Z’s work ethic is shaped by their experiences and the digital age they grew up in can help us understand what drives them and sets them up for success. By embracing their unique strengths and perspectives, teams can create a more dynamic and innovative workplace.
Written and edited by Gemma Crolla, Digital Marketing Manager, Ambition Group Australia.
